If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that tastes like all the best parts of a classic cabbage roll but with way less fuss, then this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Thick, savory, and bursting with the flavors of tender cabbage, hearty ground beef, and perfectly cooked rice swimming in a rich tomato broth, it’s a bowl of warmth that feels like a big home-cooked hug. Whether you want something simple for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying dish to bring to a dinner party, this soup hits every mark with ease and enthusiasm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this soup comes from a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that work together beautifully. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender rice providing a comforting bite to the cabbage adding fresh crunch and vibrant green color. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring this delicious Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe to life.
- 1 ½ cups converted long grain rice: This rice holds its shape perfectly, soaking up flavors without turning mushy.
- 3 cups water: For cooking the rice gently to fluffiness.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds a rich, meaty base that makes the soup hearty and fulfilling.
- 2 cups water: To build the soup’s savory broth and marry the flavors.
- 1 (20 oz) jar pasta sauce: Brings depth of tomato sweetness and a hint of herbs.
- 1 (10 oz) can tomato soup: Keeps the broth luscious and slightly creamy.
- 3 pounds cabbage, chopped: The star veggie—tender and mildly sweet, balances the richness.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Offers a subtle aromatic base that infuses the whole pot.
- Himalayan pink salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a gentle kick and warmth.
- 1 dash hot sauce: A little zing that lifts the entire flavor profile.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by bringing 3 cups of water and the converted long grain rice to a boil in a large saucepan. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 20 to 25 minutes. You want the rice tender and all the water absorbed—that perfect balance makes the soup comforting and satisfying.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
While your rice is cooking, heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef right into the pot and break it apart with your spoon or spatula. Cook it until it’s deliciously browned all over, which adds a wonderful depth of flavor. When the beef is nicely caramelized, drain away any excess grease to keep the soup from feeling heavy.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now comes the fun part. To the pot with your browned beef, add the cooked rice, 2 cups of water, the jar of pasta sauce, the can of tomato soup, finely chopped onion, and chopped cabbage. Sprinkle in Himalayan pink salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and don’t forget that dash of hot sauce for a little pep. Stir everything thoroughly to make sure each bite bursts with flavor.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring your pot of ingredients up to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are all harmonized. This slow melding of tastes transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as you like—sometimes a tiny pinch more salt or pepper can make all the difference. Ladle it into bowls, watch the steam swirl up, and dig in while it’s hot for a meal that’s cozy, filling, and full of homestyle goodness.
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top really brightens the soup visually and adds a burst of fresh flavor that complements the hearty broth. If you want a creamy touch, a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of Greek yogurt makes a lovely contrast.
Side Dishes
This soup is wonderfully filling on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls turns the meal into a complete feast. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables would add fresh texture and balance too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe in hollowed-out bread bowls or mini cast-iron pots. It makes the experience feel special and perfect for sharing with friends or family around the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover soup can be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with time, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it back up.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice in this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! While converted long grain rice is preferred for its texture, you can try white or brown rice. Just keep in mind that cooking times and water ratios may vary slightly.
Is this soup naturally gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten, as long as your pasta sauce and tomato soup are certified gluten-free.
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Definitely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How spicy is the soup with the dash of hot sauce?
The hot sauce adds just a subtle kick that enhances the flavors without overwhelming them. Feel free to adjust or omit it based on your spice preference.
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Of course! Diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers mix in nicely and add extra nutrition and flavor to this already vibrant soup.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner, this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe delivers everything you want in a bowl. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or just whenever you crave something homey with a little extra love. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite soup to cozy up to!
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Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting and hearty soup that captures the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in an easy-to-make pot. Packed with ground beef, rice, cabbage, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this soup is perfect for a warming meal. The recipe uses simple ingredients and requires simmering to meld all the flavors together into a satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Rice
- 1 ½ cups converted long grain rice
- 3 cups water
Soup Base
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups water
- 1 (20 oz) jar pasta sauce
- 1 (10 oz) can tomato soup
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 3 pounds cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Himalayan pink salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 dash hot sauce
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a large saucepan, bring 3 cups of water and the converted long grain rice to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and all water is absorbed.
- brown the Beef: Meanwhile, heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned throughout. Drain any excess grease from the pan and set the beef aside.
- Combine Ingredients: To the soup pot with the browned beef, add the cooked rice, 2 additional cups of water, pasta sauce, tomato soup, chopped onion, chopped cabbage, Himalayan pink salt, black pepper, and a dash of hot sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning, then ladle the soup into bowls. Enjoy hot as a hearty meal.
Notes
- Use converted long grain rice as it holds up well and doesn’t become mushy in soup.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Be sure to drain excess grease after browning the beef for a less oily soup.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
