If you have ever loved the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but want something quicker and easier to prepare, this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is a total game-changer. It captures all the hearty, savory goodness you crave in a bowl packed with tender cabbage, flavorful ground beef, and perfectly cooked rice swimming in a rich tomato-based broth. You’ll love how this soup not only tastes like a warm hug on a cold day but also comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients that are easy to find and delightfully satisfying to eat. Whether you want a family dinner or a make-ahead meal, this recipe hits all the right notes in every bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that each play a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the fragrant rice to the vibrant cabbage and tangy tomato base, every component is essential to make this dish a winner without any fuss.
- Converted long grain rice: Offers the perfect fluffy texture that absorbs savory broth without getting mushy.
- Ground beef: Adds rich, meaty depth and protein to the soup, making it filling and hearty.
- Water: Used in two stages to cook rice and create broth, keeping the soup light but comforting.
- Pasta sauce: Brings a robust tomato flavor with herbs and spices to anchor the soup’s taste.
- Tomato soup: Enhances creaminess and rounds out the acidity of the pasta sauce.
- Cabbage: The star ingredient provides crunch and a mild sweetness that softens beautifully as it cooks.
- Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation for the soup.
- Himalayan pink salt: Balances the flavors perfectly without overpowering them.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Gives a gentle kick and enhances the savory aspect.
- Hot sauce: Just a dash to awaken the palate and add a bit of warmth.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by combining 3 cups of water and 1½ cups of converted long grain rice in a large saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and then lower to a gentle simmer, covering the pot. Let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. This perfectly cooked rice will soak up the soup’s rich flavors later without falling apart.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
While the rice is cooking, heat a large soup pot on medium-high. Add your ground beef and use a spoon to break it apart. Cook it until it’s thoroughly browned with a slightly crispy edge for extra flavor. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the soup from getting greasy but retain all that meaty goodness.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
With the beef in the pot, add your cooked rice, 2 cups of water, pasta sauce, tomato soup, finely chopped onion, and the chopped cabbage. Season with Himalayan pink salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a small dash of hot sauce. Stir everything thoroughly so that the ingredients meld together, preparing for the next step.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat and then reduce it to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. This slow cooking softens the cabbage to tender perfection and lets all the flavors marry beautifully into a warm, hearty broth that tastes like home.
Step 5: Taste and Serve
Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls while it’s still piping hot. Each spoonful offers a lovely mix of textures and flavors, from tender cabbage and savory beef to creamy tomato richness—a perfect meal on its own!
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish elevates your bowl of Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe and makes it feel extra special. Try fresh chopped parsley or dill to bring a pop of color and herbaceous brightness. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds luxurious creaminess and balances the tomato acidity wonderfully.
Side Dishes
To complement the soup, consider crusty bread or warm garlic rolls for dipping into the rich broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs well, cutting through the soup’s richness and adding a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this soup in individual rustic bowls or mugs for a cozy vibe. For a fun twist at a dinner party, offer toppings like shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños, or crispy fried onions as a “bar” so guests can customize their perfect bowl of Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the cabbage from becoming overly soft. It’s a great option for packing lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this soup at a later date, it freezes wonderfully. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen soup can last up to 3 months while retaining its delicious flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, and stirring halfway for even heating. If the soup thickens in storage, add a splash of water or broth to bring it back to your preferred consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are leaner options that work well and still provide great flavor, especially when browned properly and seasoned.
Is it necessary to cook the rice beforehand?
Yes, pre-cooking the rice ensures it has the right texture without becoming mushy in the soup. Uncooked rice added at the start would absorb too much liquid and overcook.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Brown the beef separately, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until cabbage is tender.
What type of cabbage is best for this soup?
Green cabbage is classic and widely available, but you can also experiment with Savoy or Napa cabbage for slightly different textures and flavors.
How spicy is this soup, and can I adjust the heat?
The hot sauce adds just a mild kick, but you can easily adjust it or omit it altogether depending on your spice preference. Feel free to add more if you like it spicy!
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is one of those magical dishes that brings warmth, comfort, and a little bit of nostalgia to your table without hours in the kitchen. It’s approachable, delicious, and perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on your own. I hope you enjoy making and eating this hearty, flavor-packed soup as much as I do!
Print
Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Cabbage Roll Soup combines tender cabbage, ground beef, and rice simmered in a rich tomato-based broth for a comforting and flavorful meal. Inspired by traditional cabbage rolls, this soup offers the same satisfying flavors in an easy-to-make one-pot dish perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Rice
- 1 ½ cups converted long grain rice
- 3 cups water
Main Soup Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups water
- 1 (20 oz) jar pasta sauce
- 1 (10 oz) can tomato soup
- 3 pounds cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Himalayan pink salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 dash hot sauce
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a large saucepan, bring 3 cups of water and the converted long grain rice to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is fully absorbed.
- Brown the Beef: While the rice is cooking, heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned evenly with no pink remaining. Drain any excess grease from the pot, then set the beef aside temporarily.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the soup pot and add the cooked rice, 2 more cups of water, pasta sauce, tomato soup, finely chopped onion, chopped cabbage, Himalayan pink salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a dash of hot sauce. Stir thoroughly to mix all ingredients well.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows the cabbage to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- For extra depth, add minced garlic along with the onions when sautéing beef.
- Adjust the hot sauce quantity based on your preferred spice level or omit it for a milder taste.
- This soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use low-sodium pasta sauce and tomato soup to reduce sodium content if desired.
