Cabbage Roll Soup: 7 Comforting Reasons to Make It

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Cabbage Roll Soup is a dish that brings the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls into a delicious, warm soup. This hearty recipe blends lean ground beef, tender cabbage, fire-roasted tomatoes, and rice, all simmered in a flavorful tomato and beef broth base. It’s not just easy to make, but also perfect for a satisfying meal that comes together in under an hour. Let’s dive into why this soup is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Roll Soup

This Cabbage Roll Soup is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect option for any weeknight dinner. Here are just a few reasons to love it:

It’s a hearty Cabbage Roll Soup that fills you up without weighing you down.
This dish is versatile; you can easily convert it into a Vegetarian Cabbage Roll Soup or a Gluten-Free Cabbage Roll Soup by substituting the meat and broth.
The recipe is straightforward, providing an easy Cabbage Roll Soup that anyone can master.
It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze!
Serve it with crusty bread for a comforting meal that warms your soul.
Perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day!
With a total cooking time of just 45 minutes, it’s a quick dinner solution.

Ingredients for Cabbage Roll Soup

Gather these items:

1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chopped cabbage
1 (14 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (28 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes with juices
4 cups beef broth
1 cup water
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2/3 cup uncooked white rice (jasmine rice recommended)
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large soup pot, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. If there is excess fat, carefully spoon out most of it to reduce grease in the soup.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic, then add the chopped cabbage, tomato sauce, fire-roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, water, paprika, Italian seasoning, and uncooked rice to the pot. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Step 3: Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once it begins boiling, stir thoroughly, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar. Let the soup simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is fully cooked and tender, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Step 4: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve the soup hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Delicious Cabbage Roll Soup simmering in a pot

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cabbage Roll Soup

Keep these in mind:

Use a mix of ground beef and sausage for a richer flavor in your Cabbage Roll Soup with Sausage.
For a low-carb Cabbage Roll Soup, simply omit the rice and add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Consider making this dish in a slow cooker for an easy meal that can cook while you’re at work (see our Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup variation).

Best Ways to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup

Enjoy this soup with:

Freshly baked crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for a creamy finish.
Pair it with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat Cabbage Roll Soup

To store your Cabbage Roll Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months, making it a great meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage Roll Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Cabbage Roll Soup?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors. Use high-quality beef and fresh ingredients, and don’t rush the simmering process; let the flavors meld together beautifully.

Can I make Cabbage Roll Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making Cabbage Roll Soup a day ahead enhances the flavors. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cabbage Roll Soup?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the rice is cooked thoroughly and adjust seasoning at the end. Avoid overcooking the cabbage to maintain its texture.

Variations of Cabbage Roll Soup You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

For a Vegetarian Cabbage Roll Soup, replace the beef with lentils and use vegetable broth.
Try adding different grains like quinoa or barley for a unique twist.
Incorporate other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers to enhance the flavor profile.