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As the days grow colder and the nights stretch longer, my cravings shift toward hearty, comforting meals that wrap me in warmth. That’s when I whip up my beloved One-Pot Cabbage Roll Soup. Just imagine the rich scents of tender beef and zesty tomato mingling with fresh herbs while a pot simmers on the stove. This dish offers all the beloved flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss—perfect for busy weeknights!

With its chunky texture and robust flavor, this soup stands as a cozy hug in a bowl, ideal for gathering around the table with family or sharing with friends. Plus, the best part? It’s a simple, one-pot wonder that allows for all sorts of variations, whether you want to sneak in more veggies or adapt it to fit dietary preferences. Trust me when I say that once you try this comforting meal, it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why is Cabbage Roll Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: The Cabbage Roll Soup delivers a satisfying bowl of warmth, making it perfect for cool evenings.
Easy Preparation: With just a single pot, cleanup is a breeze—allowing more time to enjoy your meal!
Flavor Explosion: The rich combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and spices provides an irresistible taste that captures the essence of traditional cabbage rolls.
Incredible Versatility: Easily customize it by adding more veggies like bell peppers or making it vegetarian with lentils.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This hearty dish is sure to impress both family and friends, turning any dinner gathering into a comforting feast.
For even more delightful options, consider exploring my favorite hearty one-pot meals.

Cabbage Roll Soup Ingredients

For the Base
• Olive Oil – A splash of olive oil is perfect for sautéing, but feel free to use vegetable oil if preferred.
• Lean Ground Beef – Provides a hearty protein base; ground turkey or chicken works as a lighter option.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste.

For the Vegetables
• Large Yellow Onion (1 3/4 cups chopped) – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
• Large Carrots (1 1/4 cups chopped) – Contributes sweetness and texture; parsnips offer an earthier alternative.
• Chopped Cabbage (packed, 16 – 19 oz) – The star ingredient that adds bulk and nutrition to the Cabbage Roll Soup; kale or collard greens can substitute in a pinch.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses the soup with aromatic goodness; garlic powder (1 tsp) can be used as a fast substitute.

For the Soup Base
• Low-Sodium Beef Broth (4 cups) – Forms the flavorful foundation of the soup; vegetable broth can work for a vegetarian option.
• Tomato Sauce (3 x 8 oz cans) – Imparts richness and acidity, deepening the flavor.
• Petite Diced Tomatoes (2 x 14.5 oz cans) – Adds delightful texture and bursts of flavor.

For Seasoning
• Brown Sugar (1 Tbsp) – Balances the acidity and enhances the overall taste; you might want to increase for extra sweetness.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 Tbsp) – Elevates the umami profile of the soup.
• Dried Paprika (1 1/2 tsp) – Introduces depth and warmth to the mix.
• Dried Oregano (1 tsp) or Fresh Chopped (1 Tbsp) – Brings a hint of herbal charm to the dish.
• Dried Thyme (3/4 tsp) or Fresh Chopped (2 1/2 tsp) – Adds another layer of delicious flavor.
• Bay Leaves (2) – Enhances the entire dish with an aromatic backdrop.

For the Texture and Brightness
• Dry Long-Grain White Rice (3/4 cup) – Thickens the soup; be mindful that different rice types may alter cooking time.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (1 Tbsp) – A splash of brightness that lifts the flavors brilliantly.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley (1/3 cup) – Adds a fresh garnish and flavor boost at the end.

How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup

Heat Oil: Begin by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Feel free to use vegetable oil if you prefer—both work well for sautéing.
Brown Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the pot, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the browned beef to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the fat in the pot.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, toss in the chopped onions and carrots. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften, then add chopped cabbage and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Pour in the low-sodium beef broth, tomato sauce, petite diced tomatoes, and sprinkle in brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, thyme, and bay leaves. Stay close and stir well to combine, returning the beef to the pot as you do.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a light boil, then stir in the dry rice. Cover the pot, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for approximately 25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finish & Serve: Once the rice is tender and the soup has thickened, adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed. Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley just before serving.

Optional: Top with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Busy home cooks will love how easy it is to prepare Cabbage Roll Soup in advance! You can chop the vegetables (onions, carrots, and cabbage) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also brown the ground beef ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, simply sauté the prepped veggies, add the browed beef, and follow the remaining steps of the recipe. To ensure the flavors remain vibrant, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Cabbage Roll Soup?

As you indulge in this hearty comfort, complement your meal with these delightful pairings that bring out the best flavors.

Buttered Fresh Bread: The warm, buttery goodness of fresh bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth. It adds a satisfying texture to every bite.
Sour Cream Dollop: A swirl of sour cream brings a creamy tang that enhances the soup’s flavors, creating a lovely balance with the spices.
Crusty Rolls: These rolls provide a crunchy contrast, perfect for scooping up the chunky ingredients, ensuring every last drop of flavor is savored.
Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette offers a bright contrast, cleansing the palate between bites.
Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans adds nutrition and vibrant color, making your meal even more wholesome.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, consider a warm apple crisp. Its sweet, cinnamon-infused goodness ties in beautifully with the comforting vibes of the soup.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea can round out your meal, promoting digestion while its gentle flavors harmonize with the soup.
Sweet Iced Tea: This refreshing drink can balance the savory richness of the soup, with its sugary notes uplifting your entire dining experience.
Red Wine: A glass of red wine pairs well with the hearty ingredients, enhancing the meal’s depth and making it feel extra special.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: For those looking for a comforting twist, cheesy garlic bread adds indulgent flavor and texture, perfect for sopping up the soup.

Cabbage Roll Soup Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize your Cabbage Roll Soup to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs!

Vegetarian: Swap out the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian option.
This twist keeps the hearty essence while adding protein from the lentils.
Extra Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans for a nutrient boost and vibrant color.
This not only enhances texture but also brings in fresh flavors that complement the soup beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a bit of heat.
Just a small amount can elevate the flavor profile, making it perfect for those who enjoy a spice kick!
Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like fresh basil or cilantro instead of oregano and thyme for a fresh twist.
These herbs add a unique flavor that can brighten the entire dish and keep it exciting!
Rice Alternatives: Substitute dry long-grain white rice with quinoa or wild rice for a different texture and taste.
These options bring slightly nutty notes and can make this comfort food feel gourmet.
Low-Sugar: If you’re watching your sugar intake, omit the brown sugar or try a sugar substitute like maple syrup.
Adjust the sweetness to your liking to keep it flavorful without the added sugar.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk right before serving for a creamy, luxurious finish.
This adds a velvety texture that truly makes the soup feel like a cozy hug!
Citrus Zing: For a tangy twist, add a little lime zest alongside the lemon juice before serving.
This brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing element to your comforting bowl of soup.

Storage Tips for Cabbage Roll Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Cabbage Roll Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to label them for easy identification!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to adjust the consistency as needed.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid keeping the soup at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Expert Tips for Cabbage Roll Soup

Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh herbs like parsley and thyme for an enhanced flavor profile that brightens your Cabbage Roll Soup.
Watch the Rice: Cooking times can vary with different rice types; keep this in mind to avoid overcooking or undercooking your soup.
Adjust Thickness: If your soup thickens too much during cooking, simply add more broth or water to reach the desired consistency before serving.
Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasoning, especially salt and sugar, before serving to ensure the perfect balance of flavors in your soup.
Make Ahead: Prepare a big batch and refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It only gets better with time!

Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of cabbage should I use for my Cabbage Roll Soup?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using green cabbage, as it holds up well in soups. Look for heads that are firm and heavy, with vibrant green leaves free of dark spots. If you want to experiment, napa cabbage or savoy cabbage can be delightful alternatives, providing a slightly different texture and taste!

How long can I store leftover Cabbage Roll Soup?
Very! You can safely store your leftover Cabbage Roll Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best flavor, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth if it thickens too much.

Can I freeze Cabbage Roll Soup?
Definitely! To freeze your soup, let it cool to room temperature before dividing it into airtight freezer bags or containers. Be sure to label them with the date, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove!

What if my Cabbage Roll Soup is too thick?
Don’t worry! If your soup comes out thicker than you’d like, simply add more broth or a splash of water while reheating until you reach your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually, and keep tasting until it’s just perfect!

Any dietary considerations for Cabbage Roll Soup?
Yes! For a gluten-free option, make sure your broth and other seasonings are certified gluten-free. Additionally, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat crumbles, which will still provide a hearty texture and flavor.

What vegetables can I add to my Cabbage Roll Soup?
The more the merrier! Feel free to enhance your soup by adding chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans. These additions not only boost the nutrition but also add layers of texture and flavor to your comforting dish!