This soup captures the essence of classic cabbage rolls without the time-consuming process of rolling and baking. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with flavor from slow-simmered ingredients. The recipe is budget-friendly and perfect for feeding a family, while also being easy to customize with different grains or proteins. It’s a cozy, nourishing dish that works for weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground beef or ground turkey green cabbage onion garlic carrots crushed tomatoes tomato sauce beef or chicken broth uncooked rice olive oil salt black pepper paprika dried thyme bay leaf fresh parsley
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add chopped onion, carrots, and garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for a few minutes until it begins to wilt. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Add the uncooked rice, paprika, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently. Cook for about 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cabbage is soft.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf and sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.
Serve hot for a comforting and hearty meal.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10–15 minutes. Cooking time is around 35–40 minutes. Total time is about 45–55 minutes.
Variations
You can swap ground beef for ground chicken or sausage for a different flavor profile. Brown rice can be used instead of white rice, though it will require a longer cooking time. For a low-carb version, replace rice with cauliflower rice. Adding a splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes. You can also include bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add extra broth or water, as the rice will continue to absorb liquid during storage.
FAQs
Can I cook the rice separately?
Yes, cooking the rice separately helps prevent it from becoming too soft, especially if you plan to store leftovers.
Can I freeze cabbage roll soup?
Yes, but for best texture, freeze it without the rice and add freshly cooked rice when reheating.
What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is most commonly used, but savoy cabbage is also a great option.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the meat with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.
How do I thicken the soup?
Let it simmer longer or add a bit more rice to naturally thicken it.
Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes, add it toward the end of cooking and simmer briefly.
How can I reduce the acidity of the tomatoes?
A small pinch of sugar or a splash of cream can help balance the flavors.
Is this soup spicy?
No, but you can add chili flakes if you prefer some heat.
Can I make it in advance?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread or a simple side salad pairs perfectly with it.
Conclusion
Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that transforms a classic recipe into an easy, one-pot meal. With its hearty ingredients and rich taste, it’s perfect for cozy dinners and meal prepping, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.
Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal packed with ground meat, tender cabbage, rice, and a rich tomato broth. This easy cabbage roll soup recipe delivers all the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls without the extra work, making it perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Total Time:55 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Soup
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:European-Inspired
Ingredients
ground beef or ground turkey green cabbage onion garlic carrots crushed tomatoes tomato sauce beef or chicken broth uncooked rice olive oil salt black pepper paprika dried thyme bay leaf fresh parsley
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add chopped onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant.
Stir in chopped cabbage and cook for a few minutes until slightly wilted.
Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Add uncooked rice, paprika, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until rice is tender and cabbage is soft.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove bay leaf.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
For best texture when storing, cook rice separately and add when serving.Brown rice can be used but requires longer cooking time.For a low-carb option, substitute rice with cauliflower rice.A splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar helps balance the tomato acidity.This soup thickens as it sits, so add extra broth when reheating if needed.
