Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe

If you love the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but want a quicker, easier, and equally delicious meal, this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is your new go-to. It captures all the hearty goodness of the classic dish—savory ground beef, tender cabbage, fragrant herbs, and a rich tomato broth—without the fuss of rolling individual cabbage leaves. This soup is perfect for cozy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you crave that familiar homestyle taste. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients and balanced flavors that make every spoonful satisfying.

The Upside of Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe

This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe offers so many perks. It’s a one-pot wonder, cutting down on cleanup and prep time. Unlike traditional cabbage rolls, you don’t need to handle delicate cabbage leaves or spend ages assembling them. The soup form means it’s faster to cook and easier to serve, especially when feeding a crowd or packing lunches.

Moreover, it’s incredibly versatile: you can customize the veggies, swap out the beef for ground turkey or lamb, or adjust seasonings to suit your palate. The hearty broth is both filling and nourishing, making it a great option for chilly evenings or when you want something hearty but light.

This soup also reheats beautifully, so leftovers taste just as good the next day, which is always a win. With every spoonful, you get that familiar, cozy cabbage roll flavor in a warm, comforting bowl that’s ready in a fraction of the time.

What Goes Into Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe

• 1 pound ground beef – provides rich, savory protein
• 1 onion, finely diced – adds sweetness and depth
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – gives that aromatic punch
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary – offers a piney, herbal note
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh – earthy and slightly minty
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning herbs – blend of oregano, basil, and more for complexity
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – intensifies the tomato flavor
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – adds umami and tang
• 4 cups coarsely chopped green cabbage – star vegetable, tender and mild
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced – sweetness and color
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – bright, sweet crunch
• 4 cups Zoup! Good, Really Good Beef Broth – rich, savory base
• 2 cans (8-ounce each) tomato sauce – smooth, tangy foundation
• 1 can (14-ounce) diced tomatoes – chunky texture and freshness
• 1/2 cup white long-grain rice, uncooked – adds body and heartiness
• 1 bay leaf – subtle aromatic lift
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar – balances acidity with sweetness
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped – fresh, bright garnish

What’s in the Gear List

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot – for even cooking and simmering
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – to sauté and stir
• Sharp chef’s knife – finely dicing onion, garlic, and veggies
• Cutting board – prep station for all your fresh ingredients
• Measuring spoons and cups – to ensure balanced seasoning
• Ladle – for serving the soup warm and comforting

Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe Cooking Guide

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Ground Beef

Heat your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with your spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Remove excess fat if necessary. Next, add finely diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Herbs, Tomato Paste, and Worcestershire Sauce

Sprinkle in the rosemary, thyme, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to coat the beef and onions. Then stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for another 2 minutes to deepen the flavors and caramelize the tomato paste slightly.

Step 3: Incorporate the Vegetables and Liquids

Add the chopped cabbage, diced carrots, and red bell pepper to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together. Toss in the bay leaf and brown sugar, which will balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Simmer

Stir in the uncooked white rice. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Ladle your Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or a simple side salad.

Smart Substitutions

• Ground beef: Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or lamb for different flavors and textures.
• Rice: Use quinoa or barley for a gluten-free or nuttier alternative.
• Beef broth: Chicken broth or vegetable broth work well, just adjust seasonings accordingly.
• Brown sugar: Honey or maple syrup can be used to add sweetness but adjust quantity to taste.
• Italian seasoning: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme can replace dried blends.

Flavor Logic

The magic of this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe lies in layering flavors. Browning the beef first creates a caramelized base, while the tomato paste adds concentrated umami. Worcestershire sauce deepens the meatiness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes. The trio of herbs—rosemary, thyme, and Italian seasoning—bring warmth and earthiness without overpowering the soup. Brown sugar tames the sharpness of the tomatoes, resulting in a nicely balanced broth.

The rice soaks up the broth, thickening the soup slightly and adding heartiness, making it a filling meal on its own. Meanwhile, the cabbage and other vegetables provide texture and freshness, keeping each bite vibrant and satisfying.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This soup stores beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. This makes it ideal for meal prepping or batch cooking so you can enjoy a comforting bowl anytime.

Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe Q&A

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the rice about 30 minutes before serving to avoid overcooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and consider adding mushrooms for a meaty texture and umami boost.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Keep an eye on the cooking time and try rinsing the rice before adding it to remove excess starch. Alternatively, cook the rice separately and stir it in just before serving.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Chopped celery, zucchini, or green beans would complement the flavors well. Add them according to their cooking times so everything finishes perfectly tender.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Chicken And Rice Soup – Another comforting, hearty soup that’s perfect for cooler days.
• Instant Pot Split Pea Soup – A creamy, protein-packed soup that comes together quickly in the pressure cooker.

Bring It Home

This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the essence of cabbage rolls without the hassle. It’s approachable, full of flavor, and makes a comforting meal any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this soup fits the bill perfectly. Grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and dive into a bowl of warm, savory goodness. You’ll love how easy it is to savor those classic flavors in a fresh, new way.

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