If you’ve ever savored the comforting, tangy, and hearty goodness of cabbage rolls but wished for a quicker, fuss-free version, then this Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is going to be your new best friend. This soup captures all the charm of traditional cabbage rolls with juicy ground beef, tender cabbage, bright tomatoes, and just the right blend of spices in a warm, soothing broth. Whether you need a weeknight dinner fix or crave a bowl of cozy comfort, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort, making it a staple worth coming back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you — each one plays a vital role in building that classic cabbage roll flavor and hearty texture. From the rich ground beef to the fresh crunch of cabbage and the warmth of aromatic spices, these essentials come together to create a truly satisfying soup that tastes like a hug in a bowl.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides savory richness and protein, forming the heart of the soup.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that brightens the whole dish.
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped: Brings texture, earthiness, and bulk to the soup.
- 2 carrots, sliced: Introduces subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and juicy freshness.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Provides a smooth, tomatoey base for the broth.
- 4 cups beef broth: Evokes rich, meaty depth and helps meld all flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Contributes gentle smokiness and a warm hue.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers herbal notes that complement the tomatoes and beef.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the ingredients.
How to Make Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step is key because browning the meat develops deep flavor and forms the savory foundation your soup needs.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook everything together until the onion softens and becomes translucent. This releases their natural sweetness and infuses the broth with wonderful aroma and taste.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Tomatoes
Now, stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. These vegetables bring freshness, texture, and that iconic cabbage roll tang while enriching the broth with bright color and flavors.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Spices
Pour in the beef broth, then season with paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. These spices add warmth and an herby edge, giving the soup its characteristic cozy personality. Stir everything well to combine.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the soup to a gentle boil before reducing the heat and letting it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. This slow simmer allows all those flavors to marry and the vegetables to become tender but not mushy. You’ll end up with a rich, hearty bowl that feels like a comforting hug.
How to Serve Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top your bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of creaminess and color. A grating of sharp cheddar can also add a delightful melty contrast that’s just irresistible.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with rustic crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls to sop up every last drop of that delicious broth. A crisp green salad on the side can offer a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this soup in charming individual crocks or hollowed-out bread bowls for an inviting, rustic presentation. For a festive touch, sprinkle some smoked paprika or freshly cracked pepper right before serving to awaken all the senses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftover Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making it an easy, crave-worthy lunch or dinner option later in the week.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully! Pour portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture, perfect for prepping ahead on busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge or gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This helps keep the cabbage tender and the flavors fresh, just like when you first made it.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and makes for a lighter version. Just brown it gently as you would beef and adjust the seasoning if needed, since turkey is milder in flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein or extra mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The soup will still be hearty and flavorful but without the meat.
How can I make the soup spicier?
Simple — add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during step 4. This will give your soup a nice kick while keeping all the classic flavors.
What’s the best cabbage to use?
A crisp green cabbage from your local market or grocery store is perfect. Its texture holds up nicely during simmering and offers that authentic cabbage roll taste.
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef, onion, and garlic first, then place all ingredients in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours. Just stir occasionally if you can, and enjoy the hands-off convenience.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe. It’s warm, filling, and packed with all those familiar flavors you love from traditional cabbage rolls, but with the ease of a soup. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just cozying up with a bowl on a chilly evening, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and make some magic happen in your kitchen — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup recipe offers all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in a hearty, easy-to-make soup form. Ground beef, tender cabbage, and carrots simmer in a flavorful tomato and beef broth seasoned with paprika and oregano, making it a perfect dish for chilly days.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the ground beef in the pot. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Vegetables and Liquids: Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, diced tomatoes (with liquid), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well to combine.
- Season the Soup: Add paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper according to your taste. Stir thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy immediately for a warm, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adding a splash of vinegar or a teaspoon of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes if desired.
- For extra flavor, try adding bay leaves during simmering and remove before serving.
- This soup freezes well; store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Adjust seasoning after cooking to suit personal taste preferences.
