Easy Cabbage Roll Soup

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There’s something deeply comforting about the hearty, homey flavors of cabbage rolls. But let’s face it—making traditional cabbage rolls is a labor of love that demands time and patience. That’s why I love turning those same ingredients into a soul-warming soup that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner. This Easy Cabbage Roll Soup gives you all the flavor of the classic dish without the rolling and layering. It’s rustic, rich, and deeply satisfying.

I’ve made this soup more times than I can count. It started out as a quick fix when I was craving cabbage rolls but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Now, it’s become one of my favorite comfort foods. The aroma alone is enough to make everyone in the house ask when dinner will be ready. The combination of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and tangy tomato base creates a balance that’s incredibly addictive.

One of the best parts is how well it holds up as leftovers. This soup only gets better with time, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully. It’s ideal for meal prep or for freezing in batches. I even pair it with a chunk of crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream to make it extra cozy.

Before diving into the ingredients and method, if you love cozy bowls like this one, you might want to check out my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts or this incredibly satisfying Cheesy Cabbage Casserole. Another must-try is the hearty Shipwreck Dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cabbage Roll Soup

This recipe captures all the essence of traditional cabbage rolls but simplifies the process dramatically. You’ll love how quickly it comes together with just a few pantry staples. The ingredients are budget-friendly and easy to find, yet the result is a robust and deeply flavorful soup that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a family or stocking up your freezer, this soup is a practical, comforting dish that checks all the right boxes.

Ingredients

Ground beef is the foundation of this soup, offering a hearty richness and depth that makes each bite fulfilling. I prefer using lean ground beef, but any variety works depending on how rich you want the soup.

Cabbage is the soul of this dish. It softens perfectly in the simmering broth and absorbs all the flavors, adding texture and a subtle sweetness.

White rice helps bulk up the soup, making it a complete meal. It gives the broth a lovely thickness and keeps you feeling satisfied for hours.

Onions and garlic are the essential aromatics. They form the base of the flavor and bring warmth and complexity to every spoonful.

Crushed tomatoes and tomato paste give this soup its signature tang and vibrant color. They blend perfectly with the beef and cabbage to create a deliciously rich broth.

Beef broth intensifies the savory notes of the soup. I use low-sodium broth to better control the seasoning.

Paprika, thyme, and bay leaves add depth and a gentle spiciness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Salt and black pepper help tie everything together. Adjust them to your taste.

How to Make Easy Cabbage Roll Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomato Base

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings including paprika, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Cabbage

Pour in the beef broth and stir in the chopped cabbage. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.

Step 5: Add the Rice

Stir in the cooked rice and let everything simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb some of the broth. Adjust seasoning if needed and remove the bay leaves before serving.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of ground beef or just want to try something new, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully in this soup. They keep it lighter while still offering protein-packed comfort. You can also use cauliflower rice if you’re cutting down on carbs. For extra veggies, throw in some diced carrots or bell peppers when you sauté the onions.

Prefer a vegetarian version? Simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef. Add a can of drained lentils or kidney beans for a protein boost. This version is just as hearty and satisfying.

If you’re not a fan of thyme, Italian seasoning or dried oregano are great substitutes. And for those who like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This soup is incredibly filling on its own, but it shines even brighter with a crusty slice of sourdough or a warm dinner roll for dunking. I also love adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top for added richness.

For a lighter pairing, serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette. It’s the perfect balance to the hearty, savory soup.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Easy Cabbage Roll Soup stores beautifully. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat until hot. If it thickens too much in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up.

FAQs

How long does Easy Cabbage Roll Soup last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I freeze Easy Cabbage Roll Soup?

Absolutely! This soup freezes very well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.

What type of cabbage works best for Easy Cabbage Roll Soup?

Green cabbage is the classic choice. It becomes tender and slightly sweet when simmered, making it ideal for this soup.

Do I need to cook the rice before adding it to Easy Cabbage Roll Soup?

Yes, using cooked rice ensures that the texture stays perfect and doesn’t soak up too much liquid while simmering.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re into hearty, satisfying meals, you absolutely have to try my Cheesy Cabbage Casserole. It uses similar ingredients but takes on a comforting, baked twist. Another winner for cabbage lovers is my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts, which pairs well with almost any side and delivers bold flavor in every bite.

Looking for a one-pot dinner vibe? The Shipwreck Dinner is another reader favorite packed with savory flavor and minimal cleanup.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to save this Easy Cabbage Roll Soup to your favorite board on Pinterest so you can find it later when you’re craving something cozy and delicious. If you made this recipe and loved it, be sure to share it with friends or post it on social media and tag me—I love seeing your creations! Whether you print it out, pin it, or pass it on, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep within easy reach.

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