Stuffed cabbage soup is a warm, hearty meal that combines all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the extra effort. This one-pot dish is packed with tender cabbage, savory ground beef, rice, and a rich tomato broth. It’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting and satisfying meal.
The best part? It’s much quicker and easier to make than rolling cabbage leaves, yet just as flavorful. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, stuffed cabbage soup is a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners.
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Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it simplifies a classic dish without sacrificing flavor. The combination of cabbage, ground beef, and rice cooked in a tomato-based broth creates a rich, savory soup that’s both hearty and delicious. Sautéing the onions and garlic at the start enhances the flavors, while the slow simmering allows the ingredients to meld together perfectly. It captures the essence of stuffed cabbage rolls but skips the time-consuming preparation, making it a convenient yet satisfying option.
Another reason to make this soup is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste—use turkey instead of beef, add more veggies, or swap the rice for a grain like quinoa. It’s a forgiving recipe that’s easy to customize and even easier to make. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. With its comforting flavors and one-pot simplicity, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
Cabbage (chopped):The star of the soup, adding texture and mild flavor. Substitute with kale or napa cabbage for a slightly different taste.
Ground Beef:Adds hearty, savory flavor to the soup. You can substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
Rice (uncooked):Makes the soup filling and comforting. Use white or brown rice, or substitute with quinoa for added nutrition.
Crushed Tomatoes:Provides the rich, tomato-based broth. Substitute with diced tomatoes or tomato puree if needed.
Beef Broth:Creates a flavorful base for the soup. Substitute with chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
Tips
- Use a large pot to ensure all ingredients fit comfortably without overflowing.
- Sauté the onions and garlic first to enhance the flavor of the soup.
- Rinse the rice before adding it to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs.
- Let the soup simmer longer for deeper flavors, but stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
How to Serve
Stuffed cabbage soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you want a filling one-pot meal. It captures all the flavors of classic stuffed cabbage rolls but without the effort of rolling and stuffing. The rich, tomato-based broth combined with tender cabbage, ground beef, and rice makes it a satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or rolls to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added richness.
- Pair with a light green salad for a balanced meal that’s both hearty and fresh.
Similar Recipes
Slow Cooker Bean and Bacon Soup
Stuffed Cabbage Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small head of cabbage chopped
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth or chicken/vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ยฝ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika optional
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the chopped cabbage, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, rice, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Mix well.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the rice is fully cooked.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
• Sauté the onions and garlic first to enhance the flavor of the soup.
• Rinse the rice before adding it to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs.
• Let the soup simmer longer for deeper flavors, but stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Good and simple recipe.