Imagine the savory aroma of cabbage, seasoned beef, and warm spices swirling together in a hearty pot of soup. This Cabbage Roll Soup is all about that wonderful, cozy feel! It’s like a bowl of hugs that doesn’t require you to roll anything. Plus, it’s creamy without the cream, making it perfect for chilly days. With simple ingredients you’ll likely find in your pantry, this dish is a home-cooked delight that brings comfort and flavor to your table.
What’s even better? It’s easy to whip up, so you can enjoy a nourishing meal any day of the week. Grab a spoon, and get ready for a delicious adventure!
Why You’ll Love Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe – Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
This Cabbage Roll Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl. Imagine thick, tender cabbage leaves simmering with seasoned ground beef in a savory broth, along with the wholesome goodness of tomatoes and spices. Each bite is flavorful and hearty, perfect for warming up on a cold day.
Here are a few reasons why this soup is a winner:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes!
- Hearty Texture: Chewy cabbage and tender beef provide a satisfying mouthfeel.
- Pantry-Friendly: Most ingredients are easy to keep on hand!
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy it all week long.
- Dietary Notes: Naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free.
- Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters will love this comforting dish.
Key Ingredients for Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe – Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons
Let’s dive into the star ingredients that make this soup shine:
- Cabbage – Adds a delightful crunch and softness as it cooks down.
- Ground Beef – Provides a rich flavor and protein kick.
- Tomato Sauce – Brings in sweetness and balances the savory elements.
- Rice – Adds heartiness and makes the soup filling.
- Onion and Garlic – Give that foundational flavor that warms your heart.
- Spices (Paprika, Basil) – Enhance the flavor and aroma of the soup.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup
Phase 1 – Prep
- Chop the onion and garlic finely.
- Shred the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
- Rinse and prepare the rice according to the package instructions.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage, tomato sauce, rice, spices, and broth.
- Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
- Enjoy with crusty bread on the side for sopping up every delicious drop!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh cabbage adds the best texture and flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick!
- Storage Tip: Make extra for the week and store in individual containers.
- Check Doneness: Ensure the cabbage is tender but not mushy for the best experience.
- Swap the Meat: Ground turkey or sausage can be a great alternative!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not cooking the beef fully before adding the other ingredients. This can lead to a greasy soup. Always ensure it’s browned well. Another issue is overcooking the cabbage; you want it tender, not mushy, so keep an eye on the cooking time. Lastly, be careful with the seasoning! Add salt and spices at the end to avoid overpowering the soup.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative.
- Vegan: Swap the beef for lentils or mushrooms.
- Spicy: Add jalapeños or increase paprika for a flavorful heat.
- Instant Pot: Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes for a quick meal!
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup
Best Pairings
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping.
- Grated Cheese: Sprinkle on top for extra creaminess.
Toppings & Garnishes
- Chopped Parsley: Freshens the flavors.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: For creaminess and tang.
Drink Pairing
- Crisp Apple Cider: Balances the savory tones beautifully.
- A Light White Wine: Complements the flavors without overpowering them.
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prepping. Just store it in the fridge for quick lunches.
Storing Leftovers
Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze soup in portions for up to 3 months—just be aware that the cabbage may soften a bit when reheated.
Reheating
Reheat on the stove over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Absolutely! Just add it towards the end of the cooking time so it doesn’t become mushy.
How to make it extra creamy without cream?
Stir in some mashed potatoes or cashew cream before serving for added creaminess.
Can I double it?
You can definitely double the recipe! Just ensure you have a pot large enough.
How to fix a too-thick soup?
Add more broth or water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
This Cabbage Roll Soup is not just delicious; it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just for yourself, you’ll love how easy it is to make and how good it feels to eat! Try the recipe and let us know what you think!
Cabbage Roll Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Chop the onion and garlic finely.
- Shred the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
- Rinse and prepare the rice according to the package instructions.
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage, tomato sauce, rice, spices, and broth.
- Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
- Enjoy with crusty bread on the side for sopping up every delicious drop!