Best Cabbage Roll Soup – Easy Homemade Recipe

best-cabbage-roll-soup-recipe

Introduction

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of soup that tastes like home, especially when it captures the essence of a beloved classic. That’s exactly what you’ll find with this Cabbage Roll Soup—a cozy, flavorful twist on the traditional stuffed cabbage rolls we all adore. Whether you’re craving nostalgia or simply need a hearty meal to warm your soul, this recipe delivers. Plus, it’s quicker to make than the original, so you can enjoy that same rich taste without the extra effort.

Cabbage Roll Soup combines tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and aromatic spices in a rich tomato broth, creating a dish that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying. Unlike the labor-intensive process of rolling individual cabbage leaves, this soup simplifies everything into one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of a time-honored favorite while keeping things easy and approachable. If you love cozy, family-style meals, you’ll appreciate how this recipe brings everyone to the table. For more comforting ideas, check out my Comfort Food Classics collection or explore my tips for Meal Prep Magic to make weeknight cooking a breeze.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Cabbage Roll Soup holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen. She used to spend hours crafting her famous stuffed cabbage rolls, and while I adored them, I always wished for a quicker version that didn’t sacrifice flavor. When I finally perfected this soup, it felt like unlocking a little piece of her legacy—one that I could share with my own family on even the busiest days. Every spoonful feels like a hug, and that’s exactly what good food should do.

Health and Nutrition

Why it’s good for your body

Cabbage Roll Soup packs a nutritious punch while delivering rich, comforting flavors. First, cabbage, the star ingredient, boasts high levels of vitamin C and fiber, which support immune health and digestion. Additionally, the lean ground beef or turkey in this soup provides a solid dose of protein to keep you full and energized. Meanwhile, tomatoes contribute antioxidants like lycopene, which may promote heart health.

Beyond individual ingredients, Cabbage Roll Soup balances macros effortlessly. For instance, the broth keeps calories in check while the vegetables add volume without excess carbs. Moreover, the dish naturally includes gut-friendly ingredients like garlic and onions, which may reduce inflammation. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this soup delivers nutrients without compromising taste.

Finally, Cabbage Roll Soup adapts well to dietary preferences. If you use brown rice instead of white, you’ll boost fiber even further. Likewise, swapping in plant-based protein makes it vegetarian-friendly. With every spoonful, you’re nourishing your body with vitamins, minerals, and wholesome ingredients.

How it fits in a healthy lifestyle

Cabbage Roll Soup fits seamlessly into balanced eating habits. For gluten-free diets, simply ensure your broth and seasonings meet dietary standards. If you’re focusing on heart health, the lean proteins and fiber-rich veggies align perfectly with recommendations. Plus, the soup’s high water content helps with hydration, a key factor in overall wellness.

Meal preppers love Cabbage Roll Soup because it stores well and reheats beautifully. Pair it with a crisp salad for extra greens or a slice of whole-grain bread for added fiber. If you’re exploring more ways to incorporate nutrient-dense meals, check out our guide to easy meal prep ideas. For those tracking macros, this soup offers flexibility—adjust proteins or carbs to match your goals. Craving more hearty, healthy recipes? Try our comfort food made nutritious roundup for inspiration.

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Cabbage Roll Soup


  • Author:     Chef Mia



Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and comforting soup inspired by traditional cabbage rolls, packed with ground beef, rice, and tender cabbage in a rich tomato broth.

Ingredients


Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small head cabbage, chopped
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
  2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in chopped cabbage and cook for another 5 minutes until slightly wilted.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, rice, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is tender.
  6. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot.

Notes

You can customize the seasonings to taste.



How to Prepare This Dish

Steps and time-saving tips

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and browning the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then toss in diced onions and minced garlic to sauté until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth for a rich base. Next, shred the cabbage and add it to the pot along with uncooked rice—this saves time since everything cooks together. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for warmth. Let the Cabbage Roll Soup simmer for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the flavors meld. If you’re short on time, use pre-shredded coleslaw mix instead of chopping a whole cabbage. For extra depth, drizzle a splash of Worcestershire sauce or sprinkle fresh parsley before serving. Keep the heat low toward the end to prevent the rice from sticking, and taste to adjust seasoning as needed.

and-learned-from">Mistakes I’ve made and learned from

Early on, I rushed the sautéing step and ended up with undercooked onions that made the Cabbage Roll Soup taste harsh. Now I take an extra minute to let them soften fully. Another blunder? Adding too much rice, which soaked up all the broth and turned the soup into a casserole. I’ve since measured carefully—about ½ cup is perfect. If you’re new to soups, check out my guide on avoiding common soup mistakes for more tips. Also, don’t skip tasting as you go; I once over-salted the broth and had to balance it with a squeeze of lemon. For foolproof seasoning, my seasoning hacks post breaks it down simply. Trust me, a little patience makes this dish foolproof!

Cultural Connection and Variations

Where this recipe comes from

Cabbage Roll Soup carries the heartwarming legacy of Eastern European comfort food, where stuffed cabbage rolls (or “golabki”) have long been a staple. Families in Poland, Ukraine, and Hungary traditionally slow-cook cabbage leaves stuffed with spiced meat and rice, simmered in tomato broth. Over time, this labor-intensive dish evolved into a simpler, soup-style version—Cabbage Roll Soup—that delivers all the cozy flavors without the fuss. In my own kitchen, my grandmother’s version always included a splash of vinegar for tang, while my neighbor’s Lithuanian take leaned heavy on smoked paprika. Meanwhile, in the American Midwest, you might find it loaded with ground beef and served with a side of crusty bread.

Across the globe, varia

tions pop up based on local tastes. Some cooks in Greece add lemon and dill, while others in Germany swap tomatoes for sauerkraut, giving the soup a pleasantly sour kick. Even the choice of meat changes—pork in some regions, turkey in health-conscious households, or lentils for a plant-based twist. No matter the adaptation, Cabbage Roll Soup remains a unifying dish, bridging generations and geographies with its humble, nourishing charm.

How it fits in today’s cooking

Today, Cabbage Roll Soup thrives as a weeknight hero, especially for busy cooks craving nostalgia without the hours of prep. Modern twists, like using Instant Pots or pre-shredded cabbage, make it a go-to for meal preppers and quick weeknight dinners. It’s also a star during fall and winter, when its hearty warmth pairs perfectly with seasonal cravings. Plus, its versatility shines—swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge, or try a keto version with cauliflower rice.

Beyond convenience, this soup anchors holiday traditions for many families, especially in communities with Eastern European roots. Some serve it alongside comfort food classics during festive gatherings, while others enjoy it as a standalone bowl of coziness. Whether you’re honoring heritage or simply feeding a hungry crowd, Cabbage Roll Soup fits seamlessly into today’s kitchens—proof that some flavors never go out of style.

>Taste and Texture

What makes it delicious

Cabbage Roll Soup wraps you in warmth with its rich, savory broth and tender cabbage leaves that melt in your mouth. The ground beef adds a hearty, meaty depth, while the tomatoes bring a bright, tangy sweetness. Every spoonful bursts with aromatic garlic and onions, infusing the soup with a fragrant, comforting aroma. Meanwhile, the rice soaks up the flavors, giving each bite a satisfying, slightly chewy texture. Whether you crave something cozy or crave-worthy, Cabbage Roll Soup delivers a symphony of tastes and textures that feel like a hug in a bowl.

Boosting the flavor

Elevate your Cabbage Roll Soup by stirring in a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a savory umami kick or topping it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. For extra richness, try swapping ground beef with Italian sausage or adding a dollop of sour cream to balance the tangy tomatoes. If you love bold spices, a pinch of smoked paprika or a bay leaf deepens the flavor profile. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping, or explore our garlic bread recipe to complete the meal. Craving more cozy soups? Our tomato basil soup offers another delicious way to warm up.

Tips for Success

Best practices for results

Always brown the ground beef well before adding it to your Cabbage Roll Soup, as this builds deeper flavor. For the best texture, chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly. Stir the soup occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking, and taste for seasoning before serving. If you prefer a thicker broth, let the soup reduce for an extra 5-10 minutes. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley to brighten the dish.

Mistakes to avoid

Overcrowding the pot with cabbage can lead to uneven cooking, so add it in batches if needed. Another common error is skipping the tomato paste, which adds richness to the broth—don’t leave it out! For more tips on balancing flavors, check out our guide on seasoning soups perfectly. Also, avoid boiling the soup vigorously after adding the rice, as this can make it mushy. Instead, try the gentle simmer method we recommend in our perfect rice texture article.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

How to serve this dish

For a cozy family dinner, ladle steaming Cabbage Roll Soup into deep bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream or fresh dill. Meanwhile, if you’re hosting a casual gathering, serve it in rustic bread bowls for a fun, edible presentation. To make it extra inviting, sprinkle crispy bacon bits or grated Parmesan on top just before serving. Additionally, this hearty soup shines at holiday potlucks or chilly weeknight meals when you crave something comforting yet effortless.

h-it">What goes well with it

Pair Cabbage Roll Soup with warm, crusty bread like our Easy Homemade Focaccia to soak up every flavorful bite. For a lighter option, try a crisp side salad with tangy vinaigrette—our Spring Mix Salad balances the soup’s richness perfectly. Finally, a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling cider cuts through the savory notes, making each spoonful even more satisfying.

What is cabbage roll soup made of?

Cabbage Roll Soup is a deconstructed version of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, featuring ground beef, rice, cabbage, tomatoes, and savory seasonings. It captures all the flavors of classic cabbage rolls but in a comforting, easy-to-make soup form. Common ingredients include onions, garlic, broth, and sometimes a touch of brown sugar for balance.

rank-math-faq-item"> How do you thicken cabbage roll soup?

To thicken Cabbage Roll Soup, simmer it uncovered to reduce excess liquid, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water. Alternatively, mash some of the cooked rice or potatoes in the soup to create a thicker texture. The natural starch from the ingredients will help achieve a heartier consistency.

Can you freeze cabbage roll soup?

Yes, Cabbage Roll Soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove for the best texture and flavor.

Is cabbage roll soup healthy?

Cabbage Roll Soup can be a nutritious meal, packed with lean protein, fiber-rich cabbage, and vitamins from tomatoes. For a healthier version, use lean ground turkey or chicken and brown rice. The soup is naturally low in calories but high in flavor, making it a great balanced option.

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