Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines the classic flavors of cabbage rolls in a simplified, easy-to-make soup. Packed with tender ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth, this soup is perfect for chilly nights or when you want a comforting meal with minimal effort. The dish features a blend of cabbage, carrots, and aromatic seasonings like paprika and oregano, creating a warm and filling soup that will nourish and delight. With just a few basic ingredients and one pot, you can enjoy the savory flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the need for wrapping and baking. This soup is not only delicious but also a great way to use up cabbage, making it both budget-friendly and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup is a warm and comforting meal that brings all the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls in a fraction of the time. The combination of ground beef, cabbage, and carrots creates a rich, savory base, while the tomatoes and beef broth offer a tangy, hearty foundation. The paprika and oregano give it just the right amount of warmth and depth. This soup is not only easy to make but also versatile—you can adjust the seasonings to your taste or add extra vegetables for additional texture. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a cozy meal for yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Cabbage
Carrots
Diced tomatoes
Tomato sauce
Beef broth
Paprika
Dried oregano
Salt
Black pepper

Variations

Add more vegetables

You can add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, celery, or potatoes to enhance the soup’s flavor and nutritional value.

Use a different protein

Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different twist on the soup.

Make it spicier

If you like heat, try adding red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the soup for some spice.

Use vegetable broth

For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the ground beef, adding more vegetables like mushrooms or lentils.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Broth

Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot and stir everything to combine.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil

Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the cabbage and carrots are tender.

Step 5: Serve

Once the soup is done, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the soup hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t overcook the cabbage: Keep an eye on the cabbage while it simmers. Overcooking can make it mushy, so check for tenderness after about 30 minutes.
Use lean beef: For a lighter soup, use lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce the fat content.
Customize the seasoning: If you love garlic or paprika, feel free to add more to suit your taste.
Make it thicker: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a small amount of rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes to the broth as it simmers.

How to Serve

Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup is perfect on its own, but it can also be paired with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad to round out the meal. If you like cheese, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top adds a nice finishing touch. This soup also pairs well with garlic bread or a warm roll for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well for future meals. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until it is heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw first, or simmer it gently until heated.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage, depending on your preference.

2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with mushrooms, lentils, or another protein, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

3. Can I use frozen cabbage instead of fresh?

Fresh cabbage is best for this recipe, but if you need to use frozen cabbage, just be sure to drain any excess water before adding it to the soup.

4. How can I make the soup spicier?

If you like heat, try adding red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for some extra spice.

5. Can I add potatoes to this soup?

Yes, diced potatoes can be added to the soup for added heartiness. Add them along with the cabbage and carrots and simmer until they’re tender.

6. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and onions first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

7. How long does this soup last in the fridge?

This soup will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

8. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

9. Can I add beans to the soup?

Yes, adding beans like kidney beans, black beans, or white beans would increase the protein and add a nice texture to the soup.

10. Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes, you can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter version of the soup.

Conclusion

Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup is a perfect comfort food that brings the flavors of cabbage rolls into a simple, one-pot meal. With its hearty combination of ground beef, cabbage, and vegetables in a rich, savory broth, this soup is sure to warm you up on a cold day. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or making it ahead for the week, this easy recipe is flavorful, satisfying, and versatile. Customize it to your liking, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup anytime you crave something comforting and nourishing.