If you love the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but want a quicker, cozier way to enjoy them, this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It captures all the savory goodness of tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato broth in a warm, satisfying bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a hearty meal that feels like home, this soup is both simple to make and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the hearty ground beef that adds depth, to fresh cabbage providing a subtle crunch and nutrition, every component is essential to create this delicious, satisfying soup.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the beef and aromatics, adding a subtle fruity richness to the base.
- 1 lb ground beef: Brings savory flavor and protein, forming the hearty backbone of the soup.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened with garlic.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Injects a lovely aromatic punch that complements the meat and cabbage.
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes: Provides fresh acidity and a bright color to the broth.
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor for a richer, more robust soup.
- 4 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid base that keeps everything moist and hearty.
- 1 cup water: Balances the broth for ideal soup consistency.
- 1 cup cooked rice: Adds texture and a subtle creamy element reminiscent of traditional cabbage rolls.
- 2 cups cabbage, chopped: The star vegetable, offering a tender crunch and mild sweetness once cooked.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings gentle herbal notes that brighten the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds earthy, slightly minty undertones for depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a warm, smoky layer that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional): Helps mellow acidic tomatoes and creates a subtle sweetness.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh, green garnish that livens up the presentation.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until nicely browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. This caramelization of the meat forms the rich foundation of flavor for the soup and ensures you get that satisfying meaty taste in every bite.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic with the browned beef. Cook them together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and soft. This step releases their sweet aromatics, which perfectly complement the savory beef and bring a comforting warmth to the dish.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Now it’s time to build the soup base. Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, followed by the beef broth and water. These liquids create the luscious, flavorful broth that carries all the ingredients. The tomatoes add brightness while the beef broth deepens the taste profile.
Step 4: Incorporate Rice, Cabbage, and Spices
Stir in the cooked rice, chopped cabbage, dried basil, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This combination makes the soup hearty and balanced, with the cabbage cooking down to tender perfection, soaking up all the delicious flavors from the broth and spices.
Step 5: Simmer Until Flavors Meld
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 30 to 40 minutes. This slow cooking allows the cabbage to soften and the flavors to marry beautifully, creating a soup that tastes as rich and comforting as the classic dish it’s inspired by.
Step 6: Optional Sweetness and Final Seasoning
If you prefer a hint of sweetness to balance the tomatoes’ acidity, stir in a tablespoon of brown sugar now. Then, taste and adjust the salt and pepper before serving, ensuring every spoonful hits just the right note.
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this soup with fresh parsley on top adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal brightness that lifts the rich flavors. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan or add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess and tang.
Side Dishes
A crusty loaf of bread or warm garlic rolls make fantastic companions for this soup, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth. A simple green salad on the side can add a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty bowl.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic feel that’s sure to impress guests. You can also add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or toss in some shredded cheese to melt on top just before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cabbage roll soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen and improve, making it taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This soup freezes really well. Let it cool completely, then transfer into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 3 months. Just be mindful that the cabbage might get a bit softer after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much. Microwave reheating works too, just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and makes the soup a bit lighter. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly to develop good flavor.
Is the rice necessary in the Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe?
While you can leave it out, the rice adds a lovely texture and helps make the soup extra filling. It mimics the traditional cabbage roll filling perfectly.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead. Add extra mushrooms or lentils for protein so the soup remains hearty and satisfying.
What other vegetables can I add?
Carrots or bell peppers are great additions for extra color and sweetness. Just chop them finely so they cook along with the cabbage.
How spicy is this soup?
This recipe is mild, focusing on savory and smoky flavors. You can easily add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little heat.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is such a comforting way to enjoy all the flavors of classic cabbage rolls without the fuss and wait. It’s warm, hearty, and made from simple ingredients you likely have on hand. I can’t recommend it enough for a cozy night in or meal prep that feels special every time. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite soup!
Print
Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Cabbage Roll Soup captures the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in a warm, easy-to-make soup. Ground beef, tender cabbage, rice, and a medley of fragrant herbs simmer together in a savory tomato and beef broth base, making it a perfect dish for chilly days or anytime you crave a nourishing, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cabbage, chopped
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup cooked rice
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds flavor and prepares the meat base for the soup.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and the garlic becomes fragrant, contributing depth to the soup.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, water, cooked rice, chopped cabbage, dried basil, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, combining all ingredients for a rich soup base.
- Simmer the soup: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 30-40 minutes. This allows the cabbage to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust sweetness: If desired, stir in brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the overall taste of the soup.
- Serve and garnish: Remove the soup from the heat. Adjust seasoning as needed, then ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving hot.
Notes
- For a leaner version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- You can skip the brown sugar or replace it with honey or maple syrup based on preference.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, add a bit more cooked rice or reduce the amount of broth slightly.
- This soup freezes well; cool completely before storing in airtight containers.
- For added texture and nutrition, consider adding shredded carrots or celery along with the cabbage.
