Print

Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 15 reviews

Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that captures all the delicious flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in a simple, easy-to-make soup. Ground beef is browned and simmered with cabbage, carrots, rice, and a savory tomato broth seasoned with garlic, onion, and brown sugar, making a perfect meal for cooler days.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1 onion, finely diced
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 4 cups coarsely chopped green cabbage
  • 2 carrots, peeled, quartered and sliced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 3 (8 ounce) cans tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup uncooked long grain rice
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil: In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm the 2 teaspoons of olive oil until shimmering.
  2. Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook while breaking up the meat with a spatula until browned, about 4–5 minutes.
  3. Sauté onion and garlic: Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook together for 2–3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
  4. Add vegetables and liquids: Stir in the coarsely chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, beef broth, tomato sauce, uncooked rice, bay leaf, and brown sugar. Season again with salt and pepper to your preference.
  5. Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors meld.
  6. Finish and serve: Remove and discard the bay leaf. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the soup before serving hot.

Notes

  • Use 90% lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and less fat.
  • If you prefer a thicker soup, cook uncovered to reduce the liquid further.
  • For a spicier variation, add crushed red pepper flakes along with garlic.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors develop.
  • You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner protein option.