Cabbage Roll Soup

Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that takes all the flavors of classic cabbage rolls and turns them into an easy, one-pot meal. Packed with tender cabbage, ground beef, tomatoes, and rice in a rich, savory broth, this soup delivers warmth and satisfaction without the hassle of rolling individual cabbage leaves.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Meal – All the flavors of cabbage rolls with less effort and cleanup.
• Rich and Hearty – A perfect balance of beef, rice, and cabbage in a flavorful broth.
• Easy to Make – No need to roll cabbage leaves—just chop and simmer.
• Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Green cabbage, chopped
• Carrots, diced
• Diced tomatoes (canned)
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth
• Uncooked rice (white or brown)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Paprika
• Dried thyme
• Bay leaves
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Brown the Beef – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef, onions, and garlic. Cook until beef is browned, then drain excess fat.
2. Add Vegetables and Broth – Stir in chopped cabbage, carrots, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, broth, and seasonings. Bring to a boil.
3. Simmer the Soup – Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
4. Cook the Rice – Add uncooked rice and continue simmering for 15 more minutes until rice is fully cooked.
5. Serve and Enjoy – Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Slow Cooker Version: Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except rice) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding cooked rice before serving.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a bit of heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or omit it altogether.
• Vegetarian Version: Use lentils instead of beef and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Add broth if needed to adjust consistency.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook, so add it earlier in the simmering process.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or even ground chicken works well in this recipe.

How do I make this soup thicker?

Let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or mash some of the cooked rice and cabbage for a thicker texture.

Do I need to pre-cook the rice?

No, the rice cooks directly in the soup, absorbing all the delicious flavors.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, use about 4 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes instead of canned.

What’s the best type of cabbage to use?

Green cabbage works best, but Napa or Savoy cabbage can also be used.

What can I serve with cabbage roll soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function to brown the beef, then add all ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a natural release.

How can I add more flavor?

A splash of vinegar, more Worcestershire sauce, or a pinch of smoked paprika enhances the depth of flavor.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Just make sure the broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Cabbage Roll Soup is a delicious, comforting meal that brings all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in an easy, one-pot recipe. Whether you make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot, this hearty soup is perfect for a cozy dinner. Serve with your favorite side and enjoy a bowl of warm, homemade goodness!

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