If you love traditional cabbage rolls but don’t want to spend your evening wrapping and rolling, this Cabbage Roll Soup is about to be your new comfort food obsession. It’s everything you adore—rich tomato broth, tender cabbage, hearty beef, and warm spices—all simmered together in one pot of soul-soothing goodness. It’s a weeknight win that tastes like a warm hug from grandma’s kitchen. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- All the flavor, none of the fuss – Skip the rolling and stuffing, and just ladle the comfort straight into your bowl.
- One-pot wonder – Fewer dishes, less cleanup, more cozy.
- Meal-prep gold – It tastes even better the next day!
- Cozy + hearty = perfect – Packed with protein, veggies, and love.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinner |
| Cuisine | Comfort food / Eastern European-inspired |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cooking Method | One-pot stovetop |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
| Focus Keyword | Cabbage Roll Soup |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this Cabbage Roll Soup to life:
- Ground beef – For that meaty, satisfying base. You could also swap in ground turkey or plant-based meat if you’d like!
- Onion & garlic – The aromatic foundation. Always the start of something delicious.
- Green cabbage – Chopped into bite-sized ribbons; this is the star of the show.
- Carrots – A little sweetness and color to balance the savory notes.
- Tomato paste + crushed tomatoes – These give the soup that deep, rich tomato flavor we love in cabbage rolls.
- Beef broth – Adds depth and umami to the broth. You can use veggie broth too!
- White rice – A nod to classic cabbage rolls. It bulks things up and makes each bite extra satisfying.
- Paprika, bay leaf, salt & pepper – Warmth, subtle spice, and that nostalgic cabbage roll flavor.
- A dash of vinegar or lemon juice – To brighten things up at the end and cut through the richness.
👉 Scroll down for the full recipe card with exact measurements and timing!
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a big ol’ soup pot over medium heat. Brown your ground beef until it’s no longer pink, then drain the excess fat. Toss in the chopped onions and garlic and cook until everything smells irresistible and the onions are soft.
Step 2: Add the Veggies
Stir in the cabbage and carrots. Cook for a few minutes, just until they start to soften and soak up all those beefy, garlicky flavors.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Now it’s time for the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Add in the paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring it all to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Simmer and Soften
Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let your soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes. The cabbage should be tender and the flavors will have melded beautifully.
Step 5: Add the Rice
Stir in your cooked rice and let it warm through for 5-10 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning. A splash of vinegar or squeeze of lemon juice at the end? Chef’s kiss.
Pro Tips
- Want thicker soup? Let it simmer uncovered a bit longer.
- Add the rice at the end so it doesn’t overcook or turn mushy.
- A swirl of sour cream on top? Divine.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy kick – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Go low-carb – Swap the rice for cauliflower rice.
- Vegan version – Use plant-based meat and vegetable broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cabbage Roll Soup with:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast
- A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley
- A simple side salad for freshness
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
This soup is made for meal prep. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container.
- Fridge: Up to 4-5 days
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months
Leftovers & Reheating
Leftovers taste even better (yes, really)! To reheat:
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water.
- Microwave: Heat in intervals, stirring in between to avoid hot spots.
Can You Freeze Cabbage Roll Soup?
Yes! Just be sure to cool it completely first. Freeze it in single portions for easy lunches or weeknight dinners. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen.
FAQ
Can I use uncooked rice in this soup?
Yes, but you’ll need to add extra broth and simmer longer (about 15-20 minutes more) until the rice is tender.
What type of cabbage is best for this recipe?
Green cabbage is the classic pick, but savoy cabbage works beautifully too. Just avoid red cabbage—it changes the soup color dramatically.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then toss everything (except rice) into the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours. Add the rice in the last hour.
How do I thicken the soup if it’s too brothy?
Simmer uncovered or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) at the end.
What can I serve as a protein-packed side or second main?
Answer:
If you’re hosting or craving a two-course comfort dinner, pair this soup with something sweet and savory like our honey butter chicken. It’s sticky, tender, and insanely good next to a bowl of this soup.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Roll Soup is comfort food done right—warm, hearty, and filled with love in every spoonful. Whether you’re curled up on the couch on a chilly evening or meal-prepping for the week, this soup delivers all the nostalgic vibes without any of the fuss. Grab a big bowl, get cozy, and dig in. You’re gonna love it.
Cozy Cabbage Roll Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown ground beef in a large soup pot over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in cabbage and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well.
- Season with paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 25-30 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice and vinegar or lemon juice. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.