Name: Irresistible Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil (can substitute with vegetable or canola oil); 1 pound lean ground beef (can use plant-based meat for vegetarian option); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 medium yellow onion (or any onion); 1 medium carrot (can substitute with diced celery); 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (or canned tomato sauce); 2 tablespoons tomato paste (use half of a 6-ounce can); 1 cup long grain white rice (can substitute with brown rice); 1 tablespoon brown sugar (can omit); 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (can substitute with soy sauce); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (can use regular paprika); 4 cups green cabbage (chopped); 4 cups beef broth (can use vegetable broth for vegetarian version); salt (to taste); black pepper (to taste); fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

As the sun dips below the horizon, there’s something magical about the aroma of simmering soup wafting through the kitchen. Today, I’m thrilled to share my comforting Stuffed Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe—a harmonious twist on a traditional favorite that will warm your soul during those chilly evenings. With tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, and wholesome rice nestled in a savory tomato broth, this dish is not only a delightful comfort food but also a quick and easy dinner solution for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s gluten-free and can easily adapt to suit any dietary preference, making it a family-friendly meal that everyone can enjoy. Ready to rediscover the beloved flavors of stuffed cabbage in a cozy bowl of soup? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Cabbage Roll Soup Irresistible?

Comforting Warmth: This soup combines beloved flavors from stuffed cabbage rolls in a cozy bowl that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table.

Quick to Prepare: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together effortlessly, serving up a hearty meal in just 30 minutes.

Versatile Options: Easily adaptable for vegetarian diets with plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth, catering to all dietary preferences.

Nutrient-Packed: Packed with fresh ingredients, you’ll enjoy servings of tender cabbage and wholesome rice—guilt-free comfort food for your family.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for gatherings or family dinners, this soup is sure to impress everyone, from kids to adults.

Serving Suggestions: Pair it with crusty French bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out my recipes for Pan Fried Cabbage or Hawaiian Roll French Toast for more delicious ideas!

Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids cooking; substitute with any preferred cooking oil like vegetable or canola.
• Lean Ground Beef – Provides protein and flavor; substitute with plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor; use fresh minced garlic for the best taste.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; a yellow onion is preferred, but any onion works.
• Carrot – Adds sweetness and texture; can be replaced with diced celery for a different flavor.
• Crushed Tomatoes – Creates the broth base; substitute with canned tomato sauce if crushed tomatoes aren’t available.
• Tomato Paste – Concentrates the tomato flavor; use half of a 6-ounce can for a rich taste.
• Long Grain White Rice – Provides substance; can swap for brown rice, but cooking time will vary.
• Brown Sugar – Balances acidity; can omit for a less sweet flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami depth; optional to replace with soy sauce for a similar flavor.
• Smoked Paprika – Imparts a smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used but will lack smokiness.
• Green Cabbage – Main ingredient providing volume and nutrition; substitute with savoy or Napa cabbage if desired.
• Beef Broth – Forms the soup’s base; use vegetable broth for the vegetarian version.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Primary seasonings for taste; adjust according to personal preference.

For Serving
• Fresh Parsley – A garnish for freshness; optional, but it enhances presentation.

This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is sure to become a cozy favorite, filling each bowl with love and warmth!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Base Ingredients
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 pound of lean ground beef and 4 cloves of minced garlic. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon, until the beef is nicely browned, about 5–7 minutes. The garlic should be fragrant, indicating it’s time to move to the next step.

Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next, stir in 1 diced yellow onion and continue cooking until softened, around 3–4 minutes. If the bottom of the pot shows any browned bits, consider deglazing with a splash of beef broth to lift all those delicious flavors. This step is essential to create a rich base for your cabbage roll soup.

Step 3: Mix in Vegetables and Tomatoes
Add 1 diced carrot and then pour in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes along with 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Stir well to combine, allowing the ingredients to meld together, which should take about 2 minutes. The vibrant colors will signal that you’re on the right path to creating this comforting Cabbage Roll Soup recipe.

Step 4: Introduce Rice and Seasonings
Stir in 1 cup of rinsed long grain white rice, followed by 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. The rice will soak up the flavors as it cooks, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.

Step 5: Incorporate the Cabbage and Broth
Now it’s time to add the star of the show—about 4 cups of chopped green cabbage. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, and once bubbling, reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and let cook for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cabbage is beautifully softened.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serving
After simmering, taste your Cabbage Roll Soup and adjust seasoning if needed. For added freshness, garnish each bowl with chopped parsley right before serving. Serve warm, paired with crusty French bread or a garden salad for a complete cozy meal that your family will cherish!

How to Store and Freeze Cabbage Roll Soup

Fridge: Transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. This allows you to enjoy its comforting flavors all week long!

Freezer: Cool the soup completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it perfect for easy future meals.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Airtight Guidance: Always ensure containers are sealed properly to prevent freezer burn and maintain the delightful taste of your Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe.

What to Serve with Comforting Stuffed Cabbage Roll Soup

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of savory goodness that warms the heart and the home after a long day.

Crusty French Bread: Freshly baked and perfect for dipping, this bread complements the soup’s rich flavors beautifully. Its crunch balances the soup’s comforting warmth perfectly.
Garden Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and lightness to your meal, making each bite a delightful contrast.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: The gooey cheese and fragrant garlic enhance the comforting nature of the soup, making every mouthful a cheesy, delicious experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil and herbs add a sweet, caramelized flavor, bringing a burst of color and nutrition alongside your soup.
Pickles or Sauerkraut: These tangy accompaniments offer a zesty crunch that cuts through the richness of the soup, enhancing its flavor profile with a satisfying tang.
Sweet Cornbread: Moist and slightly sweet, cornbread pairs beautifully, perfect for sipping up that delicious tomato broth and adding a homey touch to the meal.
Hot Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced cider elevates the cozy atmosphere, providing a sweet and aromatic drink to enjoy alongside your soup on chilly nights.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, these are great! The soft, gooey centers offer a comforting contrast to the hearty soup, adding a hint of sweetness that feels like home.

Make Ahead Options

These comforting Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe components are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and sauté the base (ground beef and garlic) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the soup can be prepared and cooked completely, then cooled and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, avoid adding any garnishes until just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed. Your expertly prepped meal will taste just as delicious and comforting as when freshly made!

Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe Variations

Feel free to make this delightful soup your own with these fun and tasty variations!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap the lean ground beef for plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegan-friendly version.
Transforming this classic into a vegetarian meal doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor, just enjoy the same comforting goodness!
Gluten-Free Swap: Replace long grain white rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free alternative.
You won’t lose any of that satisfying texture while ensuring it’s safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a delightful heat boost.
This variation brings a vibrant warmth that will surely spice up your dinner table!
Hearty Add-Ins: Toss in a cup of black beans or corn for added nutrition and texture.
This not only enriches the soup but also pumps up the flavors, making every spoonful a little more exciting.
Smoky Twist: Use chorizo instead of ground beef for an extra smoky flavor profile.
Let the chorizo infuse the soup with its spices, adding a depth that’s hard to resist.
Savory Herbs: Enhance the flavors by incorporating fresh thyme or oregano into the broth.
These aromatic herbs elevate the dish, wrapping it in an herbal embrace that complements the robust ingredients.
Sweet Tomato Boost: For a deeper tomato flavor, mix in a splash of balsamic vinegar along with the crushed tomatoes.
This subtle sweetness beautifully balances the acidity, giving your soup a unique twist!
Chunky Veggie Option: Add diced zucchini or bell peppers for colorful texture and additional nutrients.
These vegetables mix seamlessly into the hearty soup, offering a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender cabbage.

As you explore these variations, you may also find inspiration in other family-favorite dishes like my comforting Thai Potsticker Soup or, for a sweet touch, the delicious Dirty Strawberry Soda. Enjoy customizing your cabbage roll soup and making it uniquely yours!

Expert Tips for Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe

Avoid Overcooking: Take care not to overcook the cabbage; it should be tender yet still hold its shape, enhancing the soup’s texture.
Proper Rice Rinsing: Rinse the long grain rice until the water runs clear to avoid clumping and ensure perfectly cooked grains in your soup.
Balance Your Seasoning: Remember to taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end; the broth’s sodium content can vary, impacting the final flavor of your Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe.
Flavor Boosters: For a deeper flavor, sauté the garlic and onion until they start to caramelize, helping to develop a rich, savory base for your soup.
Storage Strategy: Cool the soup before storing to prevent condensation. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for future meals.

Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of cabbage is best for this soup?
Green cabbage is my top choice for this recipe because it offers the perfect balance of flavor and texture. However, if you prefer, you can substitute it with savoy or Napa cabbage for a slightly different taste and tender leaves.

How long will my stuffed cabbage roll soup last in the fridge?
Absolutely! You can store this soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If it becomes thicker upon sitting, simply add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore its desired consistency.

Can I freeze stuffed cabbage roll soup?
Yes, you can! I recommend cooling the soup completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop!

How do I prevent my rice from getting mushy in the soup?
To keep your rice just right, make sure to rinse it until the water runs clear before adding it to the soup. This step removes excess starch, which can lead to clumping. If possible, also use long-grain white rice as it holds its shape better compared to other varieties.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Very! You can adapt the Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe by using plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth instead of beef. This way, you can still enjoy the heartiness of the soup while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.

Can I add other vegetables to my cabbage roll soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You can incorporate diced celery or even throw in some beans or corn for added texture and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust cooking times for any harder vegetables to ensure everything cooks evenly.