Easy Cabbage Roll Soup: A Comforting One-Pot Recipe

When the weather turns chilly or you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal, Easy Cabbage Roll Soup is the perfect solution. It’s everything you love about traditional cabbage rolls—savory beef, tender cabbage, and tangy tomato flavor—all packed into one delicious, easy-to-make soup. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe brings warmth to your table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cabbage Roll Soup

• Simple Preparation: Forget the hassle of rolling individual cabbage leaves—this soup captures all the goodness in a fraction of the time.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, lean ground beef, and wholesome rice, it’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big pot and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this hearty dish, gather the following simple ingredients:

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Lean Ground Beef	1 lb.	Choose 90% lean for less grease and more flavor.
Low-Sodium Beef Broth	4 cups	Provides a rich and savory base.
Tomato Sauce	3 (8 oz.) cans	Adds depth and tanginess.
Vegetable Oil	2 tsp	For sautéing the beef and vegetables.
White Rice	½ cup (uncooked)	Use long-grain for the best texture.
Green Cabbage	4 cups (chopped)	Fresh and finely chopped for even cooking.
Carrots	2 medium (sliced)	Adds sweetness and color.
Yellow Onion	1 medium (diced)	Enhances the soup’s aromatic flavors.
Light Brown Sugar	3 tbsp	Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
Parsley (chopped)	2 tbsp	Adds a fresh and vibrant finish.
Bay Leaf	1	Infuses subtle earthy notes.
Garlic	1 tsp (minced)	Brings a bold, savory flavor.
Salt and Pepper	To taste	Adjust to your preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Easy Cabbage Roll Soup

1. Brown the Ground Beef

• In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

• Stir in the diced yellow onion and minced garlic.
• Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the onion softens and becomes translucent.

3. Combine the Ingredients

• Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, tomato sauce, beef broth, white rice, bay leaf, and brown sugar.
• Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed.

4. Simmer the Soup

• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
• Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together.

5. Final Touches

• Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Cabbage Roll Soup

• Drain Excess Fat: If your ground beef isn’t lean, drain off excess fat after browning for a lighter soup.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add celery, green bell peppers, or diced tomatoes for extra variety.
• Use Pre-Cooked Rice: If you’re short on time, substitute pre-cooked rice and add it during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
• Double the Recipe: This soup freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	230
Protein	15g
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	3g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	450mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Why Easy Cabbage Roll Soup Is a Family Favorite

• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and soft texture make it appealing to even picky eaters.
• Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients, it’s a cost-effective way to feed a family.
• Comfort in a Bowl: This soup is like a warm hug on a cold day, bringing back memories of homemade meals and cozy evenings.

Variations of Cabbage Roll Soup

1. Vegetarian Version

• Swap the ground beef for lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a hearty, meat-free soup.

2. Spicy Cabbage Roll Soup

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery kick.

3. Low-Carb Option

• Replace the white rice with cauliflower rice to make it keto-friendly.

4. Mediterranean Twist

• Stir in diced zucchini, fresh dill, and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing variation.

How to Store and Reheat Easy Cabbage Roll Soup

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens during storage.

FAQs About Easy Cabbage Roll Soup

1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great lean alternative.

3. What’s the best way to chop cabbage for this recipe?
Remove the core and slice the cabbage into thin strips. You can also use pre-shredded cabbage to save time.

4. How can I make this soup creamier?
Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream just before serving for a richer texture.

5. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the beef broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

6. Can I add potatoes to this recipe?
Certainly! Diced potatoes make a great addition for an even heartier soup.

Conclusion: Warm Up with Easy Cabbage Roll Soup

When life calls for comfort, there’s nothing like a steaming bowl of Easy Cabbage Roll Soup to satisfy your cravings. This recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the extra effort. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or saving it for a rainy day, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Try this Easy Cabbage Roll Soup today—you’ll love every spoonful!

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