This Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting, one-pot meal that brings together all the flavors of classic cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling! Made with ground beef or turkey, tender cabbage, tomatoes, and rice simmered in a flavorful broth, this dish is warm, filling, and packed with nutrients. Perfect for chilly evenings, meal prep, or when you need a nutritious meal that’s easy to make.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, chopped
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup cooked rice (preferably long-grain)
- 1 can (14 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz / 425g) tomato sauce
- 6 cups (1.5L) beef broth or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Once browned, add the onion, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
- Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and broth.
- Season with oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add Rice and Adjust Seasoning
- Stir in the cooked rice and let it cook for 5-10 more minutes until heated through.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with warm bread or crackers for dipping.
- With Sour Cream or Cheese: Top with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheddar cheese.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- With a Refreshing Drink: Enjoy with a glass of white wine or lemonade.
- For a Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Cooking Tips
- Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade broth for extra depth of flavor.
- Make it Thicker: Add an extra ½ cup of rice or let the soup cook longer to reduce the broth.
- Use Different Proteins: Substitute ground beef/turkey with ground chicken or Italian sausage.
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and swap meat for lentils or mushrooms.
- Make it Ahead: The soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors develop overnight.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Fiber: Cabbage and carrots provide fiber for digestive health.
- Rich in Protein: Ground meat and rice add protein for muscle repair and energy.
- Loaded with Vitamins: Bell peppers, tomatoes, and cabbage offer essential vitamins A, C, and K.
- Low in Fat: Made with lean protein and minimal oil for a heart-healthy meal.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free broth)
- Dairy-Free
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – 1 Bowl)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ One-Pot Meal: Simple, easy, and minimal cleanup.
✔ Hearty & Comforting: Tastes like classic cabbage rolls without the work.
✔ Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
✔ Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day.
✔ Customizable: Can be spiced up or made vegetarian.
Recipe Conclusion
This Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup is the perfect cold-weather meal—warm, filling, and incredibly flavorful. Whether served as a quick family dinner, meal prep option, or freezer-friendly meal, this recipe is simple, delicious, and comforting. Give it a try today and enjoy a bowl of cozy goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- Yes! Brown rice works well but will need 10-15 minutes of extra cooking time.
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How do I make this soup spicier?
- Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños.
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Can I make this soup without rice?
- Yes! Substitute rice with quinoa, lentils, or cauliflower rice.
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What’s the best substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
- Use soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.
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Can I make this in a slow cooker?
- Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
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Can I use frozen cabbage instead of fresh?
- Yes! Frozen cabbage works but may have a softer texture.
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What meat works best in this recipe?
- Ground beef, turkey, chicken, or sausage all work well.
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How do I thicken the soup?
- Let it simmer longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
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Can I add beans for extra protein?
- Yes! Black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas make great additions.
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What can I serve this soup with?
- Garlic bread, crackers, or a fresh green salad pair beautifully!
Try this Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup today for a comforting, delicious, and satisfying meal that everyone will love! 🥣✨