If you’ve ever found yourself craving the warm, comforting flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls but want something quicker and easier to enjoy, this Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is the answer. Combining all those beloved ingredients in a hearty, flavorful soup, it captures the essence of the classic dish in a cozy bowl that feels like a hug from the inside. It’s the perfect dish for chilly evenings or anytime you want a simple yet satisfying meal that brings all the taste with less fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, turning a handful of simple staples into a soul-warming meal. From fresh vegetables to pantry basics, each element is essential for that perfect harmony in your soup.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds rich, savory protein that forms the hearty base of the soup.
- 1 onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth when softened and cooked with the beef.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that livens up the dish instantly.
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped: The star vegetable, adding crunch and subtle sweetness as it cooks down.
- 2 carrots, sliced: Add a slight natural sweetness and beautiful pops of color.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Introduces acidity and tang, brightening the soup.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Thickens the broth and deepens the tomato flavor.
- 4 cups beef broth: Creates a savory, comforting base liquid that ties all ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smoky warmth and rich color.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses an herbaceous, earthy note that complements the tomato and beef perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in every ingredient.
How to Make Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. This step is crucial because browning develops a rich, savory flavor that will carry throughout your soup. Be sure to break up the meat as it cooks for even cooking and texture.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, add your chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook them alongside the beef until the onion becomes tender and translucent. This soft base adds a subtle sweetness and an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen with a comforting warmth.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Tomato Elements
Once your beef mixture smells irresistible, stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. These ingredients bring that classic cabbage roll flavor to life while also contributing vibrant colors and varying textures that make the soup so delightful to eat.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Season
Pour the beef broth into the pot, then add paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This combination of herbs and spices is what rounds out the soup’s profile so beautifully. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Simmer Away
Bring the soup mixture to a boil to get all the elements melding together, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This simmering allows the cabbage and carrots to soften perfectly while absorbing the savory broth, making every spoonful a comforting delight.
How to Serve Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your bowl of Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe. Fresh parsley or chopped green onions add a burst of color and a fresh, bright flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich soup. For an extra creamy touch, a dollop of sour cream on top can add luxurious tang.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or a soft dinner roll to soak up every last drop of broth. A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance and make your meal feel complete without weighing you down.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this soup for guests or want to impress your family, consider ladling it into pretty bowls and topping with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a few chili flakes for a little heat. Serving with individual small bread bowls adds a charming, rustic touch sure to wow anyone sitting at your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors continue to deepen overnight, making it often even better the next day — perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep. Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to three months. Just make sure to leave some space for expansion to avoid any mess.
Reheating
When reheating, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If your soup thickens too much, stir in a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it back up to your preferred consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! While ground beef gives the soup its classic richness, ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative that still works well. You might want to adjust the seasoning slightly since these meats tend to be milder.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, swapping out the ground beef for plant-based meat or extra beans along with vegetable broth can create a delicious vegetarian version. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will shift slightly without the beef, so you might want to amp up the herbs and spices.
How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when seasoning your soup or as a garnish. This simple modification adds a nice kick without overpowering the comforting flavors.
What if I don’t have tomato sauce on hand?
You can substitute tomato sauce with more diced tomatoes or even tomato paste diluted with a little water. Just be sure to adjust the liquid quantity to keep the soup from becoming too thick or thin.
How long does the soup keep its flavor after freezing?
For the best taste and texture, consume the frozen Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe within three months. Beyond that, it may start to lose some freshness and flavor intensity.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is a true comfort food champion that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re a fan of traditional stuffed cabbage or simply want a delicious, no-fuss meal, this soup invites you in with warm flavors and hearty goodness. Give it a try and enjoy the cozy, satisfying experience of a classic reinvented in a bowl.
Print
Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup captures the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but in a warm, hearty soup. Made with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory tomato broth, it’s a perfect one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and full of delicious taste.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Vegetables and Liquids: Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Season the Soup: Add paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir the soup thoroughly to distribute the seasonings.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy the warming flavors of this cabbage roll-inspired dish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Add more broth if you prefer a thinner soup consistency.
- Serve with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a more filling meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in a microwave before serving.
