Cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food that feel like a warm hug from grandma’s kitchen. But rolling cabbage leaves, stuffing each one, and baking can be time-consuming. That’s why this cabbage roll soup is such a welcome shortcut.
This simplified cabbage roll soup captures all the familiar flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but in an easy, one-pot format. It’s essentially a deconstructed version: same cozy ingredients, far less effort, and ready much faster.
If you love stuffed cabbage but don’t have the time or patience to roll and bake, this cabbage roll soup delivers the same hearty satisfaction without the fuss. It’s filling, flavorful, and quick to make—perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or any time you want a bowl of comfort.
Recipe
Cabbage Roll Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 tbs olive oil
- 1 white onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 cup long grain rice
- 3 cups tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tbs oregano
- 1 tsp chilli flakes
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbs brown sugar (optional)
- 2 tsp soy sauce
Instructions:
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
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Add the diced white onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
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Add the lean ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to brown, about 2 minutes.
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Stir in the chopped cabbage and long grain rice until combined.
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Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and water. Stir to combine.
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Season with salt, oregano, chilli flakes, cinnamon, brown sugar (optional), and soy sauce. Mix well.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–23 minutes, or until the cabbage and rice are tender.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy.
Enjoy!
What Makes Cabbage Roll Soup So Special?
This soup hits the comfort-food trifecta: tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and perfectly cooked rice in a tomato-based broth. Simple pantry staples combine to produce a deep, satisfying flavor that tastes like it simmered all day, even though it’s ready in about 30 minutes.
A spoonful of sour cream adds a bright, creamy finish that balances the tomato and spices—optional, but highly recommended.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
This recipe delivers all the flavors of stuffed cabbage—without the time-consuming prep. It’s hearty, cozy, and customizable. Swap proteins, add extra vegetables, or increase the spice level to suit your taste.
It scales easily for a crowd and reheats beautifully; leftovers often taste even better the next day, making it ideal for meal planning.
What You Need for Cabbage Roll Soup
You won’t need fancy ingredients—just staples that deliver big flavor:
- Lean ground beef: provides savory richness and protein.
- Cabbage: softens and adds texture; green cabbage works especially well.
- Long-grain rice: helps thicken the soup and makes it more filling.
- Tomato sauce & beef broth: form the flavorful base.
- Onion & garlic: aromatics that build the foundation of taste.
- Seasonings: salt, oregano, chili flakes, cinnamon, soy sauce, and optional brown sugar for balance.
The small amount of cinnamon adds warmth and depth that pairs surprisingly well with tomato-based soups—don’t skip it if you’re curious.
A Few Tips for Making Cabbage Roll Soup
- Rice choice: Long-grain rice holds up well; if using brown rice, increase the simmer time.
- Cabbage: Chop into bite-sized pieces so each spoonful has both cabbage and filling.
- Customize: Add bell peppers, carrots, or extra herbs like thyme, bay leaves, or parsley. Swap ground beef for turkey or pork if preferred.
- Boost flavor: Tomato paste or smoked paprika can add extra depth if you like richer notes.
Why This Soup is Perfect for Fall (Or Any Time!)
This cabbage roll soup is quintessential comfort food—warm, filling, and nostalgic—making it ideal for cool evenings. But its simplicity and quick prep make it a great choice year-round. It stores well, so it’s convenient for lunches or busy nights.
The Viral Soup You’ll Want to Make Again and Again
It’s no surprise this cabbage roll soup went viral: it’s easy, cozy, and delivers the familiar flavors of stuffed cabbage in a fraction of the time. Try it for a busy weeknight or when you need a bowl of pure comfort.
Other Recipes You Will Love!
Lasagna soup
White bean tortilla soup
Homemade wonton soup