There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, comforting soup on a chilly day, and if you love stuffed cabbage rolls, you’re in for a treat! The cabbage roll soup recipe takes all the savory, rich flavors of traditional cabbage rolls and transforms them into a hearty, one-pot meal.
No rolling, no stuffing—just simple, wholesome ingredients simmered together in a flavorful, tomato-based broth. Whether you’re craving a classic beef and rice version, looking for a low-carb option, or want a vegetarian twist, this guide has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making the perfect cabbage roll soup, from choosing the right ingredients to storage and reheating tips. Plus, we’ll dive into delicious variations, serving ideas, and common FAQs to ensure you get the most out of this satisfying dish.
So, grab your soup pot, and let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
Introduction to Cabbage Roll Soup
What Is Cabbage Roll Soup?
If you love traditional cabbage rolls, then cabbage roll soup is about to become your new favorite dish! It’s essentially a deconstructed version of stuffed cabbage rolls, featuring ground meat, rice, cabbage, and a rich tomato broth.
Instead of rolling and baking individual cabbage leaves, all the ingredients simmer together in one pot, making it easier, faster, and just as delicious. The result? A flavor-packed, comforting soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Why This Soup Is the Perfect Comfort Food
Why do people love this cabbage roll soup recipe? Simple—it checks all the boxes for a warm, satisfying meal:
✔ Easy to make – No stuffing or rolling required!
✔ One-pot recipe – Fewer dishes, less mess.
✔ Rich and hearty – A filling, protein-packed soup that keeps you full.
✔ Versatile – Easily adjust the ingredients to fit your taste and diet.
Traditional Cabbage Rolls vs. Cabbage Roll Soup
Both cabbage rolls and cabbage roll soup share the same delicious core ingredients, but they differ in preparation and texture:
- Traditional Cabbage Rolls: The meat, rice, and seasonings are wrapped in boiled cabbage leaves, then baked in a tomato-based sauce.
- Cabbage Roll Soup: The same ingredients are chopped up and simmered together in a rich broth, creating a chunky, spoonable dish.
With all the flavor and none of the fuss, it’s easy to see why cabbage roll soup is such a popular choice. Now, let’s dive into the must-have ingredients that make this soup truly amazing!
Essential Ingredients for the Best Cabbage Roll Soup
A great cabbage roll soup recipe starts with simple, wholesome ingredients. The right combination of meat, cabbage, seasonings, and broth makes all the difference in flavor and texture. Let’s break it down.
Choosing the Right Meat: Beef, Turkey, or a Combination
The meat choice plays a huge role in the richness of the soup. Here are some options:
- Ground Beef: The classic choice for a hearty, traditional flavor.
- Ground Turkey: A leaner alternative that absorbs seasonings well while keeping the soup light.
- Ground Chicken: Offers a mild, slightly sweeter taste and works well with bold spices.
- A Mix of Beef & Turkey: A great balance of texture and flavor, providing both richness and leanness.
For an even richer taste, browning the meat with onions and garlic before adding broth enhances the depth of flavor.
The Best Cabbage for Soup: Green vs. Savoy vs. Napa
Not all cabbages are the same! The best options for a cabbage roll soup recipe include:
- Green Cabbage: The most common choice, holding its texture well during cooking.
- Savoy Cabbage: Adds a mild, slightly sweeter taste with a softer texture.
- Napa Cabbage: A great choice if you prefer a more delicate, tender bite.
Spices and Seasonings That Enhance Flavor
A well-seasoned broth makes a huge difference. Essential seasonings include:
✔ Paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness.
✔ Bay Leaf – Brings depth and warmth.
✔ Garlic & Onion – Essential for a rich base.
✔ Worcestershire Sauce – A splash boosts umami.
Rice or No Rice? Picking the Right Grains
Traditionally, cabbage rolls include white rice, but you can experiment with:
- Brown rice for extra fiber.
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- No rice at all if you prefer a grain-free soup.
Now that we’ve got the ingredients covered, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this hearty soup!
Step-by-Step Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Ready to cook? This cabbage roll soup recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Follow these simple steps for a rich, comforting bowl of goodness.
Preparing the Ingredients: Chopping, Browning & Sautéing
- Chop the vegetables: Dice onions, carrots, and garlic. Shred the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
- Brown the meat: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef or turkey and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté aromatics: Toss in onions, garlic, and carrots. Stir until they soften and become fragrant.
Simmering for Maximum Flavor: Cooking Time & Tips
- Add the broth and tomatoes: Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir in seasonings like paprika, bay leaf, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Stir in the cabbage: Let it wilt slightly before adding rice.
- Simmer gently: Cover and let the soup cook for 30-40 minutes until the cabbage is tender and flavors meld.
How to Thicken or Thin the Broth to Your Preference
- For a thicker soup: Let it simmer longer or mash some of the rice.
- For a thinner consistency: Add extra broth or water.
- For a creamy texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.
Adjusting the Recipe for Dietary Needs
✔ Low-Carb: Skip the rice or swap for cauliflower rice.
✔ Gluten-Free: Ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.
✔ Spicy Lovers: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick!
Now that you know how to make it, let’s explore tasty variations to switch things up!
Variations of Cabbage Roll Soup
One of the best things about a cabbage roll soup recipe is its versatility. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your diet, spice preference, or cooking method. Here are some delicious variations to try!
Classic Cabbage Roll Soup with Ground Beef & Rice
The traditional version sticks to the core ingredients:
✔ Ground beef – Adds richness and a hearty bite.
✔ White rice – Absorbs the savory broth beautifully.
✔ Tomato-based broth – Gives the soup its signature taste.
If you want to keep it authentic, use green cabbage and classic spices like paprika, garlic, and bay leaf.
Healthy & Low-Carb Cabbage Roll Soup
For a low-carb alternative, replace white rice with cauliflower rice. This keeps the soup light and keto-friendly while still delivering a satisfying texture. You can also use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lower-fat option.
Spicy Cabbage Roll Soup for Extra Kick
Love a little heat? Try this variation:
✔ Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy boost.
✔ Swap ground beef for spicy Italian sausage.
✔ Stir in a bit of chipotle in adobo sauce for smoky heat.
Pair this version with a cooling yogurt or sour cream topping for a perfect balance!
Vegan & Vegetarian Cabbage Roll Soup
You don’t need meat to enjoy a flavor-packed cabbage roll soup! For a plant-based twist:
✔ Use lentils or mushrooms instead of ground beef.
✔ Swap beef broth for vegetable broth.
✔ Add extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes.
The result? A hearty, comforting soup packed with protein and nutrients!
Slow Cooker & Instant Pot Cabbage Roll Soup
If you love set-it-and-forget-it meals, try these methods:
- Slow Cooker: Brown the meat first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Instant Pot: Sauté the meat and onions, then add the rest of the ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a quick release.
Now that you know the best variations, let’s talk about serving and pairing options!
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
A warm cabbage roll soup is already hearty and filling, but pairing it with the right sides and garnishes makes it even better!
What to Serve with Cabbage Roll Soup
Here are some delicious sides that complement this soup:
✔ Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
✔ Garlic Bread – Adds a buttery, flavorful crunch.
✔ Simple Green Salad – Balances the hearty soup with a fresh bite.
✔ Mashed Potatoes – For an extra comforting combo.
Best Bread & Side Dishes for a Complete Meal
Want to turn this soup into a full dinner spread? Try serving it with:
- Cheese Biscuits – The buttery, cheesy flavor pairs beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables – Adds a smoky, caramelized contrast.
- Pickles or Sauerkraut – The acidity cuts through the richness.
How to Garnish & Present Your Soup
The right garnishes can take your cabbage roll soup recipe to the next level:
✔ Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill for a burst of color.
✔ Add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
✔ Drizzle with olive oil or chili flakes for a gourmet touch.
Now that you know how to serve it, let’s talk about storing and reheating leftovers!
Storing & Reheating Cabbage Roll Soup
Made a big batch of cabbage roll soup and have leftovers? No worries! This soup stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Let’s go over the best ways to store and reheat your soup while keeping it delicious.
How to Store Leftovers Properly
To keep your cabbage roll soup fresh, follow these simple storage tips:
✔ Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✔ Portioning: If you plan to reheat individual servings, divide the soup into smaller containers for easy access.
✔ Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, keep in mind that rice may absorb more liquid, so you might need to add a bit of broth or water.
Freezing Cabbage Roll Soup: Do’s & Don’ts
If you want to freeze cabbage roll soup, keep these things in mind:
✔ Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen.
✔ Freeze without rice if possible. Rice can become mushy when thawed and reheated. Instead, cook fresh rice and add it when serving.
✔ Label with the date. The soup stays good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Best Methods for Reheating Without Losing Flavor
- Stovetop (Best Method): Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add broth if it has thickened too much.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
- Slow Cooker: If reheating a large batch, let it warm on low for 1-2 hours.
Now that you know how to store and reheat it, let’s answer some common questions about this cabbage roll soup recipe!
FAQs
Can I Make Cabbage Roll Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This cabbage roll soup recipe is perfect for meal prep. Since the flavors get better over time, making it a day in advance actually enhances the taste. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
What’s the Best Way to Keep Cabbage from Getting Too Soft?
Cabbage can turn mushy if overcooked. To keep it tender but firm:
✔ Add cabbage later in the cooking process instead of at the beginning.
✔ Use green or Savoy cabbage, as they hold up better than Napa cabbage.
✔ If freezing, slightly undercook the cabbage so it retains texture when reheated.
How Can I Add More Flavor to My Soup?
If you want a bolder taste, try these tricks:
✔ Sauté the meat with extra garlic and onion for depth.
✔ Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar.
✔ Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Can I Use a Different Type of Cabbage?
Yes! While green cabbage is the traditional choice, you can experiment with:
- Savoy cabbage – Softer texture, slightly sweeter.
- Napa cabbage – Delicate, best for a lighter soup.
- Red cabbage – A colorful twist, but may change the broth color.
With all these tips, you’re now an expert at making the best cabbage roll soup recipe!