Cabbage roll soup is a game-changer for anyone who loves the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls but wants to skip the laborious preparation. This recipe transforms the beloved Eastern European dish into a quick, easy, and satisfying one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy cold-weather dinners. With its rich tomato broth, tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and fragrant spices, this soup delivers all the comfort of a classic meal without the hassle.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Roll Soup
There are several reasons why this cabbage roll soup has become a favorite among home cooks:
Time-Saver
This recipe is incredibly efficient, requiring only about 45 minutes from start to finish. It eliminates the need for tedious tasks like boiling and wrapping cabbage leaves, making it ideal for those with limited time.
Comfort Classic
The soup captures the essence of traditional cabbage rolls, featuring the same combination of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and cabbage. The result is a deeply satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Budget-Friendly
Using affordable ingredients like green cabbage, lean ground beef, and rice, this soup is a cost-effective way to enjoy a hearty, filling meal. It also makes excellent leftovers, helping you stretch your grocery budget further.
Savory Flavor
The interplay of flavors in this soup is nothing short of remarkable. The smoky paprika, earthy thyme, and tangy tomato base create a complex taste profile that keeps you coming back for more.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup
Creating this comforting soup is straightforward, and the process involves just a few key steps:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. Add lean ground beef (preferably 90% lean) and cook it, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through—about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add diced onions and chopped carrots to the pot. Sauté them for 3–4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the carrots begin to soften. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing it to become fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Next, stir in chopped green cabbage and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to wilt. This step helps release its natural sweetness and prepares it for the next stage.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Pour in canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and low-sodium beef broth. Add uncooked long-grain white rice, brown sugar, paprika, dried thyme, and a bay leaf. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cabbage is fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially if using a heavy pot.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish each serving with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to complete the meal.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Roll Soup
To elevate your cabbage roll soup experience, consider these helpful tips:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cabbage, carrots, and parsley will significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
- Keep it lean: Choose 80–92% lean ground beef to avoid excess grease. If using a fattier cut, drain the fat after browning.
- Prevent mushy rice: For a firmer texture, cook the rice separately and add it to the soup just before serving.
- Taste and adjust: Flavors develop during cooking, so be sure to taste the soup after simmering and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Customize it: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version or add extra vegetables like bell peppers for more texture.
Storage and Reheating
This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored for several days. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
To Store
Place cooled soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. The rice may absorb more liquid during storage, so you might need to add a splash of broth when reheating.
To Freeze
Cool the soup completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave about an inch of headspace and freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze before adding the rice and add fresh rice when reheating.
To Reheat
Warm individual portions in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Heat larger amounts in a pot over medium heat until steaming hot. If the soup is too thick, thin it with a little beef broth while reheating.
Final Thoughts
Cabbage roll soup is a fantastic alternative to the traditional baked version, offering all the flavor without the effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal for a cold evening, this recipe is sure to impress. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious taste make it a must-try for anyone who loves the classics with a modern twist.
