This Cabbage Roll Soup brings all the cozy, nostalgic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls into a simplified, soul-warming one-pot meal. Instead of rolling each leaf with filling, everything is deconstructed and simmered together in a flavorful tomato broth with ground meat, rice, tender cabbage, and savory herbs. It’s the perfect cold-weather comfort food—hearty, healthy, and easy to make.
If you love cabbage rolls but dread the work of assembling them, this soup is your solution. Every spoonful is rich with the familiar textures and satisfying flavors, but without all the extra steps. Ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Eastern European / Comfort food
Ingredients
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 large onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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450g (1 lb) ground beef or turkey
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1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
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1 rib celery, diced (optional)
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1/2 head of green cabbage (about 4 cups), chopped
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1/2 cup uncooked white rice
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4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
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2 cups water
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1 can (400g or 14 oz) diced tomatoes
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1 can (400g or 14 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon thyme
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
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Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Sauté the aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Brown the meat
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Cook for 6–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add the vegetables and seasonings
Stir in the diced carrot, celery (if using), and chopped cabbage. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage begins to soften.
4. Add liquids and seasonings
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, rice, broth, and water. Season with oregano, paprika, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and simmer for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the cabbage is soft.
6. Taste and adjust
Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. If it’s too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a scoop of sour cream on top.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 310
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Protein: 18g
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Carbohydrates: 24g
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Fat: 16g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugar: 7g
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Sodium: 580mg
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Vitamin C: 60% DV
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Iron: 20% DV
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Potassium: 850mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Cabbage rolls, also known as “golubtsi” in Russia, “sarma” in the Balkans, or “gołąbki” in Poland, have long been a staple in Eastern European and Middle Eastern cuisine. Traditionally, they are made by stuffing cabbage leaves with seasoned ground meat and rice, then simmering them in a tomato sauce.
While classic cabbage rolls are beloved, they can be labor-intensive. Enter cabbage roll soup—a modern twist on the classic that keeps all the flavor and skips the rolling. It has become especially popular in North America as a family-friendly, budget-friendly, and freezer-friendly comfort meal.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One pot, no rolling – all the flavor without the work
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Customizable – use beef, turkey, or even plant-based meat
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Meal-prep friendly – freezes and reheats beautifully
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Nutritious and hearty – packed with veggies and protein
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Comfort in a bowl – tastes like your grandma’s cooking
Health Benefits
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Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber and vitamin C
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Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant
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Carrots and onions add vitamins A and K
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Brown rice (as an alternative) adds whole grain fiber
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Lean ground meat provides protein and iron
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Garlic and herbs offer immune-boosting properties
Altogether, this soup is a nutrient-rich, balanced meal that supports digestive health, boosts immunity, and keeps you full and satisfied.
Serving Suggestions
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With sour cream – add creaminess and tang
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Crusty bread or garlic toast – for dipping
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Sprinkle of cheese – grated cheddar or Parmesan
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With sauerkraut or pickled veggies – adds zing
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Pair with a side salad – like cucumber-dill or beet salad
Cooking Tips
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Use pre-shredded cabbage to save time
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Simmer gently to avoid mushy rice or overcooked cabbage
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Brown the meat well for maximum flavor
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Add a bay leaf while simmering for depth
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Use crushed tomatoes if you prefer a smoother texture
Variations to Try
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Vegetarian version – use lentils or plant-based ground
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Low-carb version – replace rice with cauliflower rice
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Spicy twist – add chili flakes or hot paprika
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Hungarian-style – add a dollop of sour cream and smoked paprika
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Creamy version – stir in a splash of cream at the end
Conclusion
Cabbage Roll Soup is proof that the simplest ingredients can create the most satisfying meals. It’s the kind of rustic, heartwarming dish that brings generations together around the table. Whether you’re short on time or simply craving something nourishing and cozy, this one-pot wonder delivers.
From its humble Eastern European roots to your own cozy kitchen, cabbage roll soup has earned its place as a beloved classic with global appeal. Make it once, and it’ll become a regular in your winter meal rotation.
10 Comprehensive FAQ
1. Can I make cabbage roll soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
2. Can I freeze cabbage roll soup?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stove.
3. Do I need to cook the rice separately?
No, it cooks right in the soup. Just make sure to simmer gently and stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
4. Can I use red cabbage instead?
You can, but it will change the color and flavor slightly. Green cabbage is more traditional and mild.
5. How do I make it vegetarian or vegan?
Use vegetable broth and substitute lentils or a meat alternative for the ground beef. Skip Worcestershire or use a vegan version.
6. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free broth and Worcestershire sauce. Double-check labels!
7. What’s the best meat to use?
Ground beef or turkey are both great. Pork, chicken, or a combination also works.
8. How do I thicken the soup?
Let it simmer uncovered for longer, or mash a few spoonfuls of rice and cabbage to add body.
9. Can I make it spicy?
Of course! Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or chopped chili peppers to taste.
10. What if I don’t have tomato paste?
You can skip it or substitute with a little ketchup or extra tomato sauce for richness.