Cabbage Roll Soup

If you love the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but want a quick, easy, and lighter version, Cabbage Roll Soup is the perfect solution. This hearty, flavorful soup captures all the deliciousness of stuffed cabbage without the fuss of rolling individual cabbage leaves. Tender cabbage, savory ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth come together in a one-pot meal that’s perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or meal prep. It’s comforting, filling, and packed with nutrition.

What Is Cabbage Roll Soup?

Cabbage Roll Soup is inspired by the classic Eastern European dish, stuffed cabbage rolls. Instead of rolling individual leaves, the cabbage is chopped and cooked directly in the soup, along with seasoned ground beef or turkey, rice, and a savory tomato broth. The result is a warm, hearty, and easy-to-make soup that tastes just like the original dish but takes half the time and minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the flavor of classic cabbage rolls in a simple soup
• Ready in under an hour
• Low-carb or high-carb options depending on rice or quinoa
• Naturally gluten-free
• Perfect for meal prep and freezing
• Family-friendly and cozy

It’s a dish that warms your soul and nourishes your body at the same time.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or chicken
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium head cabbage, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 cup uncooked rice (or quinoa for a protein boost)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup

Step 1: Cook the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add onions and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add Cabbage and Rice

Add chopped cabbage, uncooked rice, and seasonings (paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper). Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover and simmer on low heat for 25–30 minutes, until the rice is tender and the cabbage is soft.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Flavor and Texture

Cabbage Roll Soup is savory, slightly sweet, and deeply comforting. The cabbage softens in the broth while retaining a gentle bite, and the rice absorbs the rich tomato flavors. Ground meat adds heartiness, and the combination of herbs and spices creates a familiar, homey flavor reminiscent of classic stuffed cabbage.

Tips for the Best Cabbage Roll Soup

• Chop cabbage uniformly for even cooking
• Use a mix of ground beef and pork for deeper flavor
• Simmer gently to avoid overcooking the cabbage
• Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version
• Freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy meals

Variations

Spicy Cabbage Roll Soup

Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to give the soup a subtle kick.

Vegetarian Version

Skip the meat and use lentils or chickpeas for protein.

Low-Carb Cabbage Roll Soup

Replace rice with cauliflower rice or shirataki rice.

Italian-Inspired

Add Italian seasoning and fresh basil for a Mediterranean twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

When to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup

• Weeknight dinners
• Cold-weather comfort meals
• Meal prep lunches
• Family gatherings
• Cozy weekend meals

Its versatility makes it suitable for nearly any occasion.

What to Serve With Cabbage Roll Soup

• Crusty bread or dinner rolls
• Garlic bread
• Simple green salad
• Pickles or sauerkraut on the side
• Dollop of sour cream for extra richness

Conclusion

Cabbage Roll Soup captures the flavors of classic stuffed cabbage in a quick, easy, and comforting soup. With tender cabbage, savory meat, hearty rice, and rich tomato broth, it’s a one-pot meal that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy family dinner, this soup proves that traditional flavors can be simplified without sacrificing taste. It’s hearty, healthy, and delicious, a classic comfort dish you’ll return to again and again. 🥬🍅✨

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cabbage roll soup ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Yes, just ensure it’s fresh and crisp for the best texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, naturally. Just ensure the broth and any additional ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the meat with lentils, beans, or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.

Can I freeze cabbage roll soup?
Yes, in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Add extra broth when reheating if needed.

What can I use instead of rice?
Quinoa, barley, or cauliflower rice are great alternatives.

How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, paprika, or chopped fresh chili peppers while simmering.

Can I use leftover cabbage?
Yes, leftover cabbage works perfectly as long as it’s fresh and not wilted.

Do I need to cook the rice beforehand?
No, the rice cooks directly in the soup and absorbs the tomato broth flavor.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the meat and sauté aromatics first, then combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.