Cabbage Roll Soup

Push the vegetables to one side of the pot and add the ground beef to the other.
Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and thyme, stirring to combine.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
Add the Worcestershire sauce and sugar (if using) to balance the flavors.
Pour in the beef or chicken broth and stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add the Main Ingredients

Stir in the chopped cabbage, uncooked rice, and bay leaves.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaves and taste the soup, adjusting the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Tips for Perfect Cabbage Roll Soup

Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh, crisp cabbage ensures the best texture and flavor. Green cabbage works best, but savoy or napa cabbage can also be used.
Rice Options: If you’re short on time, use quick-cooking rice or pre-cooked rice. For a low-carb option, substitute with cauliflower rice.
Balance the Acidity: Tomatoes can be acidic, so don’t hesitate to add a touch of sugar or a splash of cream to mellow the flavor.
Add Heat: For a spicy kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Cook the Rice Separately for Leftovers: To prevent the rice from soaking up too much liquid over time, cook it separately and add it to individual servings.

Variations to Try

Low-Carb Version: Replace the rice with riced cauliflower and reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Vegetarian Cabbage Roll Soup: Swap the meat for lentils or plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth.
Hearty Add-Ins: Add diced potatoes, zucchini, or beans for extra bulk and flavor.
Herb Upgrade: Use fresh thyme or dill instead of dried herbs for a brighter flavor.
Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy twist on the soup.

Serving Suggestions

Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping into the flavorful broth.
Side Salad: Pair with a light green salad or a cucumber-dill salad for a refreshing contrast.
Pickles: Tangy pickles or sauerkraut make an excellent accompaniment to complement the richness of the soup.

Storing and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Cabbage Roll Soup freezes well for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze without the rice and add fresh rice when reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

Why You’ll Love Cabbage Roll Soup

Cabbage Roll Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a warm, hearty embrace in a bowl. It delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls with a fraction of the effort. From its savory tomato broth to the tender cabbage and satisfying bites of rice and meat, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or seeking comfort on a cold day, Cabbage Roll Soup is a recipe that will quickly become a favorite. So, grab your pot and get ready to enjoy a big, hearty bowl of goodness!