Cabbage Roll Soup Delight

Name: Cabbage Roll Soup Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 4 cups beef broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals

I absolutely love the heartwarming flavors that come together in this Cabbage Roll Soup Delight. Each spoonful is a delightful blend of tender cabbage, savory beef, and rich tomato broth that transports me back to cozy family dinners. The aroma wafting through my kitchen while this simmers is enough to inspire anyone to gather around the table. What’s even better is how easy it is to prepare; what once seemed like a labor-intensive dish becomes a quick and comforting meal in just one pot. Trust me, once you taste it, you'll be hooked!

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:46:28.152Z

When I first tried making Cabbage Roll Soup, I realized that it’s the perfect way to capture the essence of the classic dish without all the rolling. I used a mix of ground beef and rice, simmering it with fresh cabbage and a zesty tomato base to create a symphony of flavors. This method works wonderfully because the cabbage cooks down into tender pieces, integrating perfectly with the broth.

One specific detail I discovered is that adding a touch of paprika and fresh herbs at the end elevates the dish even more. It not only enhances the flavor but also gives the soup a colorful, inviting appearance. I can never resist a second bowl!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, just like traditional cabbage rolls
Comforting soup that's easy to make on busy weeknights
Packed with flavor and nutrition, perfect for any season

      

Flavorful Foundations

The base of Cabbage Roll Soup Delight is built on a savory combination of beef and vegetables. Starting with aromatics like onion and garlic, which are sautéed until they become fragrant and translucent, sets the perfect stage for flavor development. The addition of ground beef not only provides richness but also creates a robust umami profile. Be sure to break the meat into small pieces for even cooking, which helps achieve that classic hearty texture you expect from a comforting soup.

Adding the right spices elevates this dish to something extraordinary. The paprika and dried oregano complement the beef beautifully, infusing the soup with warmth and depth. Feel free to experiment with spice levels if you prefer a kick; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish. Just remember, start small and taste as you go!

The Cabbage Connection

Cabbage is the star of this dish, and its role is crucial. When cooked, cabbage becomes wonderfully tender yet maintains a slight bite that contrasts with the soft rice and beef. Selecting a fresh, medium head ensures you have tender leaves that won’t disintegrate in the soup. If you find a large cabbage, you can always save half for other meals—cabbage keeps well in the fridge for up to two weeks, making it a versatile ingredient for future dishes.

As the cabbage simmers, it releases natural sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomato sauce, creating a harmonious flavor profile. This transformation is particular to cabbage; other greens might not provide the same satisfying flavor transition. If you prefer a different vegetable, consider using kale or Swiss chard, but keep in mind the cooking time may need adjustments as these greens tend to wilt more quickly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Cabbage Roll Soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep, allowing the flavors to deepen if stored overnight. If you plan to make it ahead, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers; it will last in the fridge for about three days. Reheating is simple—just warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, about 10 minutes, or in a microwave-safe bowl for 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions. This soup freezes well for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned. However, note that the cabbage may become softer upon reheating. If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider freshening it up with a handful of newly sautéed cabbage before serving—this adds texture and keeps it vibrant.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
4 cups beef broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Brown the Meat

Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, approximately 6-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the chopped cabbage, cooked rice, tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy! Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Cabbage Roll Soup Delight, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley. These garnishes add a creamy contrast and a pop of color, making each bowl visually appealing. If you enjoy a bit of zest, a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors remarkably. Pairing it with crusty bread or homemade rolls can also turn this soup into a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a side salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the soup, making for a balanced dinner. I often recommend serving it with garlic bread—what’s better than dipping that warm, buttery bread into this hearty soup?

Dietary Variations

For those looking for a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef. This swap will slightly alter the flavor profile, but well-seasoned poultry can still result in a delicious soup. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or quinoa in place of meat and a vegetable broth instead of beef broth; this works exceptionally well to maintain the heartiness without sacrificing flavor.

If you need to make this gluten-free, ensure your broth is labeled as gluten-free, and replace the rice with cauliflower rice, which will keep your soup low-carb while maintaining bulk and texture. Cauliflower will cook more quickly, so add it in the last 10 minutes of simmering to avoid mushiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made a day in advance. Just reheat it on the stove before serving.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

→ Is there a way to spice it up?

Yes! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños can give it a nice kick.