This Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup brings the comforting flavors of classic cabbage rolls into a warming, one-pot meal that’s easy to make and full of nutrients. With tender ground meat (either beef or turkey), fresh cabbage, rice, and a tomato-based broth, this soup is savory and satisfying, perfect for cooler weather or whenever you’re craving a cozy, wholesome dinner. The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and a hint of sweetness creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and flavorful. Ideal for meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this cabbage roll soup is as versatile as it is delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Protein and Vegetables:
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or your choice of protein)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 small head cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
• Liquids and Tomatoes:
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
• Grains and Seasonings:
  • 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, to taste)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 bay leaf
• Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté the Vegetables

1. Cook the Meat – In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. If there is excess grease, drain it off.
2. Add Onion, Garlic, and Bell Pepper – Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and the vegetables are slightly softened.

Step 2: Add Cabbage, Tomatoes, and Broth

1. Add Cabbage and Tomatoes – Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes with their juice, and the tomato sauce. Mix well to coat the cabbage with the tomatoes and flavors.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings – Pour in the beef or vegetable broth, and add the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, sugar (if using), and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Simmer the Soup

1. Add Rice – Stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed in the broth.
2. Simmer the Soup – Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cabbage has softened. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasonings

1. Season to Taste – Taste the soup and adjust the salt, pepper, or sugar as needed. If the soup has thickened too much, you can add more broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish and Serve – Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~280
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 15g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground beef or turkey with ground chicken, pork, or even sausage for a different flavor. Just adjust the seasonings if needed to complement the type of protein.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked rice instead of uncooked rice?
A: Absolutely. If using pre-cooked rice, add it to the soup during the last 10 minutes of simmering to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Yes! Simply substitute the ground meat with a plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version.

Q: How can I make this soup spicier?
A: To add some heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

Tips for Making the Best Cabbage Roll Soup:

1. Choose Fresh Cabbage – Fresh cabbage gives the best flavor and texture. Chop it into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly and is easy to eat.
2. Let It Simmer for Flavor – This soup tastes even better when it’s simmered slowly, allowing the flavors to meld. If you have time, cook it for an additional 10-15 minutes.
3. Add Extra Vegetables – For a nutrient boost, try adding other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms. They blend well with the flavors of the soup.
4. Use Brown Rice for Added Fiber – Brown rice adds a bit more texture and fiber to the soup. Just remember that it might need an extra 10 minutes to cook compared to white rice.
5. Adjust the Broth Amount – Depending on how thick you like your soup, you may want to add extra broth toward the end. This soup can become quite thick as the rice absorbs the liquid, so feel free to add more broth if needed.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover cabbage roll soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freezer: This soup freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating from Frozen: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove. If the soup has thickened in storage, add a splash of broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
• Batch Cooking: If you’re cooking a large batch for freezing, consider undercooking the rice slightly, as it will continue to soften when reheated.

Conclusion:

Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup is an easy-to-make, nutritious, and deeply satisfying meal that brings the beloved flavors of cabbage rolls into a comforting, flavorful soup. With a combination of ground meat, tender cabbage, rice, and a savory tomato broth, it’s ideal for warming up on chilly days or whenever you’re craving a wholesome, home-cooked meal. Its versatility allows for easy ingredient substitutions based on what you have on hand, and its easy-to-store nature makes it perfect for meal prepping. Try this recipe for a taste of comfort that’s sure to satisfy all year round. Whether you enjoy it fresh off the stove or reheated from the freezer, each spoonful offers a delicious, balanced meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful.