Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup

Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting one-pot meal that delivers all the classic flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls—without the fuss of rolling and baking. With tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and rice simmered together in a rich broth, this soup is deeply satisfying and easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup combines simplicity and flavor in every spoonful. It’s a full meal made in a single pot, great for cold evenings, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry crowd. You get the comfort of cabbage rolls in a fraction of the time. The ingredients are budget-friendly, and the soup tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups green cabbage, chopped

• 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice

• 4 cups beef broth

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• ¾ cup uncooked white rice

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the chopped cabbage and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Stir in the uncooked rice, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 hearty servings. Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, and cook time is about 35 minutes, making it a full meal ready in under an hour.

Variations

– Use ground turkey or pork for a lighter or different flavor profile.
– Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice before serving for a touch of brightness.
– Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
– Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
– Stir in a handful of baby spinach or kale at the end for added greens.

Storage / Reheating

Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, transfer desired portion to a saucepan and warm over medium heat until hot. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
The soup also freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as above.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Does the rice become mushy in leftovers?

It softens slightly but generally holds up well. If you prefer, you can cook the rice separately and add it when serving.

Can I freeze this soup with rice in it?

Yes, though the rice may absorb more broth. Add extra broth when reheating to restore consistency.

What’s the best cabbage to use?

Green cabbage works best, but savoy cabbage is a fine alternative if you want a more delicate texture.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free.

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but it requires a longer cooking time. Simmer for about 45 minutes or pre-cook the rice before adding.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes—brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the beef with lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What sides go well with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad pair beautifully.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, it doubles well. Just be sure to use a large enough pot and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy all the cozy flavors of cabbage rolls with none of the work. It’s filling, freezer-friendly, and adaptable to a variety of diets and preferences. This recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation—easy to make, easy to love. Ready for the next one?

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