Cabbage Roll Soup

Cabbage Roll Soup is a warm, comforting bowl that tastes like a classic cabbage roll without the work. It mixes ground meat, cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes in a rich broth. People love it for its homey flavor and simple prep. Make it on a busy weeknight or on a cold weekend. If you want bread on the side, try 5-ingredient garlic butter crescent rolls to soak up every drop.

Why make this recipe

This recipe is easy and forgiving. It uses simple ingredients you likely have at home. It cooks in one pot. That saves time and cleanup. It fits a family meal or a solo dinner. It is budget-friendly and filling. Kids and adults both usually enjoy it. For an extra cozy meal, pair the soup with warm rolls like air fryer garlic butter dinner rolls.

What makes Cabbage Roll Soup special

The soup keeps the familiar flavors of stuffed cabbage. You get the savory meat, tangy tomato, and soft cabbage in each spoonful. The texture is a mix of tender vegetables and hearty meat. It feels like a homemade family dish. The tomato paste and oregano give it a balanced depth. It stands out because it is faster than rolling individual cabbage leaves. It still delivers that classic comfort taste.

Is Cabbage Roll Soup healthy

This soup uses whole food ingredients. You get protein from the ground beef or turkey. You get fiber and vitamins from the cabbage and carrots. Making it at home means you control the salt and fat. Use lean turkey and low-sodium broth to lower calories. Keep portion size in mind. Do not take this as medical advice. For most people, this is a balanced, nourishing meal.

How to make Cabbage Roll Soup

The process is simple and calm. You brown the meat and sweat the aromatics. Then you add the vegetables and liquid. Let the pot simmer until the cabbage and carrots are tender. The cooking is low-effort. You only need a large pot and a spatula. Total active time is about 15 minutes. Simmer time is 30–40 minutes. This makes it a great weeknight dinner for beginners. If you want a small sweet end to the meal, serve cinnamon roll cookies for dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 head of cabbage, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ground beef or turkey. Cook and break it up until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in the chopped cabbage and diced carrots. Cook for 2–3 minutes to wilt the cabbage slightly.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the soup to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 30–40 minutes until vegetables are tender.
7. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm.

How to serve Cabbage Roll Soup

Serve the soup hot in bowls. Add a spoonful of plain yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil if you like. Fresh parsley or chopped dill makes a nice garnish. Offer crusty bread or rolls on the side. This soup works for lunch or dinner. It also fits a light supper or a hearty starter. For a brunch or dessert pairing, you can serve cinnamon roll muffins on the side.

 

Best occasions to make Cabbage Roll Soup

• Weeknight family dinner.
• Meal prep for lunches all week.
• Potluck or casual gathering.
• When you want comfort food without long prep.
• After a cold day, when you need something warm and filling.

How to store Cabbage Roll Soup

Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer life, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

Can you make Cabbage Roll Soup ahead of time

Yes. Make the soup a day or two ahead. The flavors improve after a day. Cool and refrigerate. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until hot. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens while stored.

Tips to make Cabbage Roll Soup

• Use a sharp knife to chop the cabbage evenly.
• Brown the meat well for better flavor.
• Taste and adjust salt at the end.
• Use low-sodium broth to control salt.
• Add a splash of vinegar or lemon if you want more brightness.

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Variation

• Use ground turkey for a leaner soup.
• Add cooked rice to mimic stuffed cabbage more closely.
• Stir in a bay leaf while simmering for extra aroma.
• Make it vegetarian with lentils or crumbled tofu and vegetable broth.
• For a cozy finish, serve with sweet buns like fluffy cinnamon rolls with creamy glaze for dessert.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze Cabbage Roll Soup?

A: Yes. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

A: Yes. Pre-shredded cabbage works. Watch the simmer time. It may cook faster.

Q: Is Cabbage Roll Soup good with rice?

A: Yes. Add cooked rice to each bowl or stir it into the pot for a heartier meal.