Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe – Hearty, Flavorful, and Comforting
This Cabbage Roll Soup is a delicious twist on traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, with all the comforting flavors but without the hassle of rolling. It’s filled with ground beef, rice, tender cabbage, and a rich tomato broth – a one-pot meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. This soup is not only hearty and filling but also easy to make!
Ingredients for Cabbage Roll Soup
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground pork or a mixture of both)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped (about half a medium head)
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cabbage Roll Soup
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Beef: Add the ground beef, cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Drain Fat: If there is excess fat, drain it and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Carrots
- Add Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add Carrots: Stir in the diced carrots and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Cabbage and Seasonings
- Add Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage, cooking for about 5 minutes until it begins to soften.
- Season: Add the smoked paprika, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Rice
- Combine Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, beef broth, and rice.
- Return Beef: Stir in the cooked ground beef, combining everything well.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
- Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil.
- Cover and Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 30-35 minutes until the rice is tender and the flavors are well combined. Stir occasionally.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce if needed.
- Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
Tips for Making the Best Cabbage Roll Soup
- Use Lean Ground Beef: Lean ground beef minimizes the need for draining excess fat.
- Adjust Rice Cooking Time: Brown rice may take longer to cook than white rice, so adjust the simmering time if needed.
- Make It Thicker: If you prefer a thicker soup, add a little extra rice, or let the soup simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
Variations on Cabbage Roll Soup
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Use Cauliflower Rice: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option; add it in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Try Italian Seasoning: Substitute thyme with Italian seasoning for an added herbaceous flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Cabbage Roll Soup pairs well with:
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping into the rich, tomato-based broth.
- Simple Side Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds creaminess and a bit of tang.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.
FAQs
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works just as well and gives a lighter flavor.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Replace ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth for a vegan version.
Is This Soup Gluten-Free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce, this soup is naturally gluten-free.
This Cabbage Roll Soup has all the satisfying flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but in an easy, one-pot meal. It’s hearty, filling, and delicious, perfect for cold days or any time you need a comforting dish. Enjoy!