Cabbage Roll Soup Delight

Name: Cabbage Roll Soup Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large head of cabbage, chopped; 4 cups beef or vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I can’t get enough of this Cabbage Roll Soup Delight! It combines all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but in an easy-to-make soup form. The rich tomato base mingles perfectly with the seasoned ground meat and tender cabbage, creating a harmonious dish that warms both the heart and the soul. Each bowl is a medley of flavors that takes less time to prepare than you might think. Perfect for chilly nights or a casual family dinner, this soup will quickly become a favorite in our household.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:38:28.149Z

When I first decided to make Cabbage Roll Soup Delight, I was looking for a dish that would capture the essence of my grandmother's kitchen. It turned out better than I had hoped! The secret lies in sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the soup. This enhances their flavors and creates a depth you wouldn't get by simply tossing everything into the pot.

I also learned that letting the soup simmer a bit longer allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully. In that time, I prepared some crusty bread, which complimented the soup perfectly. Trust me; you won't want to skip that step!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty, comforting flavors reminiscent of home-cooked meals
Simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch
A quick and easy way to enjoy a classic dish without the fuss

      

The Role of Cabbage in Your Soup

Cabbage is the star of this dish, providing a tender yet firm texture when cooked properly. The key to achieving that perfect balance is chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, allowing it to soften while retaining some structure. Cook it for about 25-30 minutes in the simmering soup, which not only infuses the broth with its subtle sweetness but also adds a delightful leafy texture.

If you're looking to switch things up, consider using savoy or Napa cabbage for a different flavor profile. These varieties are softer and have a slightly sweeter taste, which can enhance the overall flavor of the soup. Just keep in mind that they'll require a shorter cooking time, so adjust your simmering time accordingly.

Making Meal Prep a Breeze

This soup is perfect for meal prep! After cooking, allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to five days or in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in 1-minute intervals.

You can also scale the recipe up when you want to prepare extra for a crowd or have leftovers for the week. Just double the ingredients and use a larger pot. Monitor the simmering time as it may vary slightly; it’s ready when the cabbage is tender but not mushy.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your Cabbage Roll Soup, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top, which adds a creamy tanginess that complements the rich flavors. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also introduce a burst of freshness—just sprinkle them over the bowl just before serving.

If you want to add more veggies, feel free to toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers after sautéing the onion and garlic. They add an extra layer of sweetness and color. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with lentils and use vegetable broth, making it just as hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large head of cabbage, chopped
4 cups beef or vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Meat

In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground meat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add diced onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté until onions are translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in chopped cabbage, broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Allow to simmer for 25-30 minutes until cabbage is tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce when combining ingredients. Pair with sour cream on top for a richer taste!

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

One common mistake when making soups is underseasoning. Make sure you taste the soup towards the end of the cooking process and adjust the salt and pepper accordingly. The flavors of the ingredients meld together during simmering, so it’s essential to give it a final check before serving, as the flavors will intensify.

If you notice your soup is too thick, simply add more broth or water during the simmering process. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors. A thickening agent like cornstarch mixed with a little water can also help thicken the soup quickly.

Ingredient Substitutions for Flexibility

Don’t have ground beef or turkey on hand? Feel free to substitute with ground chicken or even sausage for a different flavor dimension. If avoiding meat altogether, use plant-based ground meat alternatives. This soup can easily adapt to various dietary needs without losing its comforting characteristics.

For the broth, homemade is always great, but if time is short, store-bought options work just fine. Look for low-sodium varieties to control salt levels. Additionally, if you're sensitive to acidity, consider using crushed tomatoes instead of diced, as they tend to be less tart.

Enhancing Flavor Layers

To deepen the flavor of your soup, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or even a pinch of smoked paprika during the simmer. These ingredients contribute an umami quality that enhances the overall taste without overpowering it. The addition of crushed red pepper can add a subtle heat if your family enjoys a bit of spice.

For a smoky flavor reminiscent of traditional cabbage rolls cooked over an open flame, try adding a small amount of smoked turkey or ham hock while the soup simmers. Just remember to remove it before serving. This clever trick introduces depth to the broth while keeping the ingredients simple and wholesome.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground pork or chicken can also be used as great alternatives.

→ Is there a way to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the meat with lentils or additional vegetables, and use vegetable broth.

→ How long does the soup keep in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.