If you love the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but want a quicker, heartwarming meal with all the same cozy goodness, this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It captures the essence of those classic stuffed cabbage rolls, packed with tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, fragrant herbs, and rich tomato broth, making every spoonful a burst of home-cooked happiness. Whether you’re craving a nourishing weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish to share, this soup brings simplicity and soul to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is delightfully straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and heartiness. These basics combine to create a comforting, beautifully balanced soup.
- Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing adds richness and helps develop flavor.
- Ground beef: Provides savory depth and satisfying protein in every bite.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and aromatic complexity when cooked down.
- Garlic: Infuses the soup with a warm, inviting punch.
- Diced tomatoes: Bring brightness, acidity, and a hint of sweetness.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and deepens the broth’s richness.
- Beef broth: Creates a hearty, flavorful base for the soup.
- Water: Balances the broth for the perfect consistency.
- Cooked rice: Adds heartiness and body, mimicking the stuffed feel of cabbage rolls.
- Cabbage: The star ingredient, tender and slightly sweet after simmering.
- Dried basil: Offers a subtle herbaceous note that enhances overall taste.
- Dried thyme: Adds earthy warmth that complements the beef perfectly.
- Smoked paprika: Introduces a gentle smoky depth and vibrant color.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to bring everything together.
- Brown sugar (optional): Balances the tomato acidity with a touch of sweetness.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A bright, fresh garnish that lifts each serving.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon to ensure even cooking. Let it brown nicely, which will take about 5 to 7 minutes, releasing those savory juices that form the foundation of this soup’s rich flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them together until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step fills your kitchen with amazing aroma and builds that comforting base for the soup.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced tomatoes along with the tomato paste, mixing thoroughly to coat the beef and onions. Pour in the beef broth and water, which will create the hearty, flavorful soup liquid. The tomatoes add brightness while the broth gives depth and warmth.
Step 4: Combine Rice, Cabbage, and Seasonings
Now it’s time to add the cooked rice, chopped cabbage, dried basil, thyme, smoked paprika, and a seasoning of salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well to blend these wonderful textures and herbs into the simmering broth.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture up to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes. During this time, the cabbage softens beautifully and the flavors have a chance to mingle and intensify, making the soup truly soul-satisfying.
Step 6: Adjust and Finish
If you love a hint of sweetness, stir in a tablespoon of brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. When ready, remove the soup from heat and prepare to serve.
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to this hearty soup. You can also try a dollop of sour cream for creamy contrast, or a grating of sharp cheddar cheese if you want a little indulgence.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty enough to be a one-pot meal, but pairing it with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls turns it into a full comforting feast. A simple green salad on the side brings a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the soup beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a cozy feel, or ladle it into hollowed-out bread bowls to impress guests with a fun, edible container that keeps things warm. Garnish creatively with fresh herbs or even a swirl of olive oil to elevate the look before diving in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover cabbage roll soup in an airtight container once it has cooled. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick weekday lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will stay at peak quality for up to 3 months. Just label and date your containers so you can enjoy homemade goodness anytime.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Microwave reheating works well too, just cover and heat in bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken make great alternatives for a lighter version. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may brown a little faster than beef.
Is it necessary to cook the rice before adding it?
Yes, pre-cooked rice ensures the texture stays perfect and the grains don’t become mushy during the long simmer. Using leftover rice works perfectly here.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The flavor will still be fantastic!
What can I do if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If smoked paprika is unavailable, regular paprika or a pinch of cumin can add a lovely warmth. The smoky nuance adds depth but is not essential.
Why add brown sugar to the soup?
Tomatoes can sometimes have a tangy acidity, so a bit of brown sugar helps round out the flavor by adding a gentle sweetness, making the soup more balanced and enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is the perfect blend of hearty, wholesome ingredients and classic flavors that warm your heart and soul. It’s easy to make, comforting for the whole family, and endlessly adaptable. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy every flavorful spoonful as much as I do!
