Cabbage Roll Soup – A Cozy One Pot Comfort Classic

When the wind’s whipping and you need something that wraps you up from the inside out, this Cabbage Roll Soup is your answer. All the nostalgic flavor of traditional cabbage rolls, but no fiddling or rolling just a big, hearty pot of cozy. One spoonful and you’re back at grandma’s kitchen table with a warm bowl and an even warmer heart. IIt’s the perfect companion to our creamy chicken lasagna soup if you’re planning a comfort-filled dinner spread.

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Roll Soup

This isn’t your average soup. It’s deeply savory, a little sweet, full of tender cabbage and juicy beef, and it just feels like home. It’s also:

• Made in one pot
• Totally freezer-friendly
• Budget-conscious and hearty
• A hit with picky eaters
• Ready in under an hour

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fresh Ingredients

• 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, quartered and sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Pantry & Protein Staples

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 tsp vegetable oil
• 3 (8 oz) cans tomato sauce
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• ½ cup white rice, uncooked
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 tbsp light brown sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup (Step-by-Step)

Step 1 – Brown the Beef

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Break it up as you go.

Step 2 – Add Aromatics

Stir in the diced onion and garlic. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions are soft and the whole kitchen smells amazing.

Step 3 – Simmer the Soup

Toss in the chopped cabbage, carrots, tomato sauce, broth, rice, bay leaf, and brown sugar. Give everything a good stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4 – Let it Cook

Simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the cabbage melts into the broth.

Step 5 – Finish & Serve

Fish out the bay leaf, stir in parsley, and serve hot. Grab a spoon you’re gonna want seconds.

Tips for the Best Flavor

• Brown the beef well for added depth
• Use a Dutch oven if you have one
• Let the soup rest 5 to 10 minutes before serving

Make It Your Own (Easy Variations)

Make it vegetarian

Swap the beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead.

Add spice

Toss in chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a little heat.

Try different grains

You can sub in brown rice, barley, or even For a similar one-pot cozy dinner, our best lasagna soup delivers those crave-worthy tomato and pasta vibes.

Storing & Freezing Tips

This soup is made for leftovers.

• Fridge: Keeps 4 days in a sealed container
• Freezer: Portion into bags or containers and freeze up to 3 months
• To reheat: Simmer gently on the stove or microwave until hot

What to Serve with Cabbage Roll Soup

Keep it simple and comforting. We love:

• A slice of crusty sourdough
• Garlic butter dinner rolls
• A crisp green salad
• Or serve it with a warm bowl of slow cooker German potato soup with sausages for a flavor-packed, heartwarming duo.

Cabbage Roll Soup FAQ

Try It, Love It, Save It

This Cabbage Roll Soup is one of those recipes you’ll come back to every winter. When it’s cold and dark, it’s like a hug in a bowl simple, soulful, and satisfying. If you give it a try, leave a comment and let me know how you liked it.

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