There’s just something so comforting about a warm bowl of cabbage roll soup, don’t you think? It captures the essence of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, but in a cozy, hearty soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings. I love how each spoonful is packed with flavor – tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and rich broth. This cabbage roll soup recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also super easy to whip up. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen just like it is in mine! The aroma alone will have your family flocking to the table.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious cabbage roll soup. I promise, it’s straightforward and you probably have most of these ingredients at home!

1 medium head of cabbage, chopped – This is the star of the show! Make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
1 pound ground beef – You can also use ground turkey if you’re looking for a lighter option!
1 onion, diced – A sweet onion works beautifully here, adding depth of flavor to your soup.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic base that makes everything pop.
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes – These bring a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances the flavors perfectly.
4 cups beef broth – This is what gives your soup its heartiness. You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
1 cup cooked rice – I usually make a batch of rice ahead of time; it’s a great way to use leftovers!
2 tablespoons tomato paste – This adds a rich, concentrated tomato flavor that enhances the broth.
1 teaspoon paprika – For a little warmth and depth. You can adjust this to your spice preference!
Salt and pepper to taste – Always taste and adjust, as every palate is different!

How to Prepare Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe

Now, let’s dive into how to whip up this comforting cabbage roll soup! It might look like a lot of steps, but trust me, it’s super simple and totally worth it. You’ll have a delicious, hearty soup simmering on your stovetop in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remember to break it up with your spatula as it cooks!
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together with the beef for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
Now, it’s time to add the chopped cabbage. Stir it into the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the cabbage wilts down a bit. It’ll reduce in size and meld beautifully with the beef and onion.
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with the beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine. This is where the magic happens!
Now, add in the cooked rice, tomato paste, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. I always taste as I go to make sure it’s just right!
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together!
After the time is up, give it a final taste and adjust any seasonings if needed. Serve it hot, and get ready for everyone to fall in love with this soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re going to adore this cabbage roll soup recipe for so many reasons! It’s not just about the comforting flavors; it’s also incredibly practical. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this hearty soup simmering away in no time!
Hearty Flavor: Each bowl is packed with the savory goodness of beef, cabbage, and tomatoes, delivering that home-cooked feel.
Health Benefits: Loaded with vegetables and lean protein, this soup is a nutritious option that’ll keep you feeling satisfied.
One-Pot Wonder: One pot means less cleanup, and who doesn’t love that after a busy day?

Tips for Success

To make sure your cabbage roll soup turns out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, don’t skip on browning the beef; it adds a depth of flavor that makes a huge difference. If you want to mix things up, try adding some chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra veggies! Also, feel free to adjust the spices – a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick if you like some heat. Lastly, let your soup simmer a bit longer if you can; the longer it cooks, the more those flavors will meld together beautifully!

Variations

One of the best things about this cabbage roll soup recipe is how versatile it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste. For a different protein, try using ground turkey or even diced chicken – both are delicious! If you’re feeling adventurous, add some cooked sausage for a bit of spice. You can also mix in extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even some corn for a sweet crunch. Want to switch up the flavor? Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Get creative and make it your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your cabbage roll soup is super easy! Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or leftovers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If you find it’s thickened up a bit, don’t hesitate to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat—just cover it loosely to prevent splatters!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional information for each serving of this delicious cabbage roll soup. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 4g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 600mg

This hearty soup makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal, perfect for those cozy nights in!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen cabbage for this soup?
Absolutely! Frozen cabbage works just fine. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the pot.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How can I make this soup spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the beef.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely! Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It’ll keep for about 3 months in the freezer.

What can I serve with cabbage roll soup?
This soup is great on its own, but you can pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe: 7 Comforting Flavors to Savor

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Eastern European
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and hearty cabbage roll soup that captures the essence of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls in a delicious broth.

Instructions

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted.
Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, cooked rice, tomato paste, and paprika.
Season with salt and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Adjust the spices according to your taste.
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: cabbage roll soup recipe

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