When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? You might imagine a cozy bowl of Cabbage Roll Soup, where savory flavors and heartwarming aromas dance together in perfect harmony. Picture this: tender cabbage leaves wrapping around seasoned ground meat, simmering in a rich tomato broth that warms your soul with every spoonful.

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that takes you back to family gatherings and chilly evenings. Whether it’s a rainy Tuesday or a festive holiday, Cabbage Roll Soup has a way of bringing people together. The anticipation builds as the fragrant steam wafts through your kitchen, and trust me, your taste buds are in for an incredible treat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Cabbage Roll Soup is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor
- It’s visually appealing with its vibrant colors and textures, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
- Perfect for meal prep, you can easily customize it based on what ingredients you have in your pantry
- Enjoy it on chilly days or during family gatherings; it’s versatile enough for any occasion!
Ingredients for Cabbage Roll Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Green Cabbage: Choose a firm head of cabbage for the best texture. It adds crunch and sweetness to the soup.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Lean ground meat works best here. You can swap it for plant-based alternatives if preferred.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth and flavor. Dice it finely to ensure even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse the soup with aromatic goodness. Use at least 3-4 cloves for robust flavor.
Tomato Sauce: This gives the soup its rich color and tangy base. Opt for low-sodium varieties if you’re watching salt intake.
Chicken Broth: Use homemade or store-bought broth to add layers of savory flavor.
Rice: Uncooked white or brown rice thickens the soup and makes it hearty. Rinse before adding to remove excess starch.
Dried Herbs (Oregano, Basil): These herbs enhance the overall flavor profile. Adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces while dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. Gather all ingredients so you’re ready to cook without interruption.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a large pot over medium heat, add your ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick.
Step 3: Sauté Your Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with cooked meat. Sauté everything together until the onion becomes translucent—around another 3-4 minutes—letting those heavenly scents fill your kitchen.
Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in chopped cabbage, tomato sauce, chicken broth, uncooked rice, and dried herbs into your pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil before lowering heat and letting it simmer.
Step 5: Let It Simmer
Allow the soup to simmer gently on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and cabbage is tender but still holds its shape.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer your hearty Cabbage Roll Soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for that ultimate comfort experience!
Now you’ve got yourself a comforting bowl of Cabbage Roll Soup that’s sure to satisfy both hunger and nostalgia!
You Must Know
- This delightful cabbage roll soup is not just a one-pot wonder; it brings the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without all the fuss
- Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, it’s a dish that warms your heart and belly alike
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sauté the onions and garlic first to build flavor, then add the ground meat until browned. Next, toss in the shredded cabbage followed by the broth and seasonings. Let everything simmer together for a hearty mix of deliciousness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add some beans for extra protein. A dash of your favorite hot sauce can also kick things up a notch, while fresh herbs like dill or parsley bring a bright finish to your bowl.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to revive that soupy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cabbage for a crunchier texture; wilted leaves may result in a mushy soup
- Don’t skimp on seasoning—it’s key for layering flavor
- Lastly, make it ahead; this soup tastes even better the next day!
Sometimes I whip up this cabbage roll soup when I’m feeling nostalgic about family dinners growing up. My kids always ask for seconds, claiming it’s their new favorite meal—who knew healthy could be so tasty?
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Cabbage Roll Soup?
To make a hearty Cabbage Roll Soup, gather ground beef or turkey, fresh cabbage, rice, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth. You can also add seasonings like salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika for flavor. This soup is versatile; feel free to include other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition.
How long does it take to cook Cabbage Roll Soup?
Preparing Cabbage Roll Soup typically takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 to 40 minutes of cooking time. The total time from start to finish is around an hour. This makes it a quick and satisfying meal option for busy weeknights while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I freeze Cabbage Roll Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Cabbage Roll Soup! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will retain its flavor and texture for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove until hot.
Is Cabbage Roll Soup healthy?
Cabbage Roll Soup is a nutritious option packed with vitamins from cabbage and other vegetables. With lean protein from meat and carbs from rice, this soup offers a balanced meal. Adjust the recipe by using low-sodium broth or adding more veggies to boost its health benefits further without sacrificing taste.
Conclusion for Cabbage Roll Soup :
Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients for a delightful meal. By using fresh vegetables and lean meats, this recipe offers both nutrition and flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, providing warmth during colder months. Enjoy the versatility of this soup by customizing it with your favorite ingredients or spices. Whether you serve it on busy weekdays or special occasions, Cabbage Roll Soup will surely become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.

Cabbage Roll Soup
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cabbage Roll Soup is a heartwarming blend of tender cabbage, seasoned ground meat, and aromatic spices simmered in a rich tomato broth. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare and customizable based on pantry staples, it’s a quick meal that warms both the heart and belly while evoking fond memories of home-cooked dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
Instructions
- Chop the cabbage, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground meat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in chopped cabbage, tomato sauce, chicken broth, rice, oregano, and basil. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes until rice is cooked and cabbage is tender.
- Serve hot in bowls; garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg