Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup

 Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish

When you’re craving the warm, savory goodness of traditional cabbage rolls but don’t have the time or energy for all the rolling and baking, this Cabbage Roll Soup is your perfect solution. It delivers everything you love about the classic dish—tender cabbage, rich tomato flavor, juicy ground meat, and perfectly cooked rice—in a one-pot, soul-warming soup. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is not just a time-saver, it’s a flavor bomb you’ll want to make again and again.

Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy family dinner, Cabbage Roll Soup offers all the comforting flavors of home-cooked nostalgia with half the effort. It's hearty, budget-friendly, and brimming with vegetables, making it both satisfying and nourishing.

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Ingredients & Why They Matter

4 cups beef broth

The rich, savory base that deepens flavor and ties everything together.

1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

Adds a tangy, slightly sweet depth—just like in traditional cabbage rolls.

1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice

Simmered right in the soup to absorb all the savory juices and create satisfying texture.

1 bay leaf

Imparts subtle earthiness and depth during simmering—don’t skip it.

3 tsp brown sugar

Balances acidity from the tomato sauce and brings a subtle caramel note.

2 tsp dried parsley

Adds a pop of herbal brightness that complements the meat and vegetables.

2 tsp olive oil

Used for sautéing to add a silky richness and prevent sticking.

Salt & pepper, to taste

Essential for seasoning each layer of flavor.

1 lb ground beef or turkey

Your choice of protein—beef for bold flavor, turkey for a lighter option.

1 medium onion, diced

Brings sweetness and aroma to the base of the soup.

2 tsp minced garlic

Adds bold, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste.

4 cups chopped green cabbage

Star of the dish—tender yet slightly crisp, it soaks up the broth beautifully.

2 carrots, sliced

Introduce natural sweetness and bright color, making the soup visually and nutritionally balanced.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the meat: In a large soup pot, heat 2 tsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef or turkey, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 6 minutes. Use a spatula to break the meat into crumbles.

2. Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.

3. Add vegetables and liquids: Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, beef broth, tomato sauce, uncooked rice, bay leaf, brown sugar, dried parsley, and a bit more salt and pepper to taste.

4. Simmer to perfection: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender.

5. Final touches: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot!

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Why This Recipe is a Favorite

All the flavor, none of the fuss – No rolling, baking, or long prep time required.

One pot wonder – Fewer dishes, faster cleanup.

Nutritious and hearty – Packed with veggies, protein, and whole grains.

Customizable – Use ground turkey for a leaner version or add extra vegetables like bell peppers for a boost.

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Pro Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the rice – Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get mushy.

Use lean ground beef (90/10) – Avoid excessive grease while retaining flavor.

Want deeper flavor? Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of vinegar.

Make it ahead – This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve your Cabbage Roll Soup with:

A slice of buttery crusty bread for dipping.

A side of tangy coleslaw to echo the cabbage theme.

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.

Pair it with a light white wine or a cold iced tea for a balanced, satisfying meal.

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Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food

This Cabbage Roll Soup is the ultimate answer to your comfort food cravings—easy, affordable, filling, and packed with flavor. It takes the rich tradition of stuffed cabbage rolls and transforms it into a weeknight-friendly meal that your whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this soup is guaranteed to warm hearts and fill stomachs.

Simple ingredients, unforgettable taste—this is comfort in a bowl. Try it once, and it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe ro

tation.