Cabbage Roll Soup has all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in an easy one-pot meal. Ground beef, tender cabbage, tomatoes, and rice simmer together in a rich, savory broth for a filling fall or winter dinner.
Why This Recipe Works
- All the flavors of cabbage rolls without the extra work
- Hearty beef, rice, and vegetables make it filling
- Simple ingredients and easy one-pot preparation
- Perfect for a cozy family dinner
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Cook the aromatics: Add the onion and carrots. Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for 2–3 minutes until it begins to soften.
- Add the soup ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Add the rice: Stir in the uncooked rice. Cover and simmer for another 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice and cabbage are tender.
- Finish: Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Stir in fresh parsley.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Roll Soup
- Use lean ground beef to keep the soup hearty without being overly greasy.
- Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
- Add the rice near the end so it doesn’t become overly soft.
- For a richer tomato flavor, add an extra tablespoon of tomato paste.
- The soup thickens as it sits, so add a little broth when reheating if needed.
Final Thoughts
Cabbage Roll Soup is a simple and comforting way to enjoy classic cabbage roll flavors without the extra preparation. With tender cabbage, seasoned beef, rice, and a rich tomato broth, it makes a satisfying meal for chilly days.
