This Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that captures all the delicious flavors of traditional cabbage rolls—savory beef, tender cabbage, tangy tomato sauce, and fragrant spices—but in an easy-to-make soup form. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, this one-pot wonder is loaded with wholesome ingredients and rich, satisfying flavor. Whether you're craving the taste of homemade cabbage rolls but don’t have time to roll them up, or you’re looking for a new twist on comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this flavorful soup and enjoy every spoonful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food in a Bowl: A warm, hearty soup packed with classic cabbage roll flavors.
- Easy & One-Pot: No need to roll cabbage leaves—just chop, simmer, and serve!
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with lean protein, veggies, and fiber for a nutritious meal.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head of cabbage, cored and chopped into bite-sized pieces (about 6–8 cups)
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or brown rice for extra fiber)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Sour cream or plain yogurt
- Red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add Vegetables and Seasonings
- Add the chopped cabbage, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir to combine and let the vegetables soften slightly for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.