Hearty & Easy Cabbage Roll Soup: An Unstuffed Family Favorite Recipe
Craving the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls but short on time? Our incredibly simple, yet wonderfully hearty Cabbage Roll Soup is your perfect solution! This one-pot wonder brings together lean ground beef, tender rice, crisp cabbage, and rich tomatoes, all simmered in a savory broth. It’s all the deliciousness of classic cabbage rolls, deconstructed and transformed into a nourishing bowl that the entire family will adore.
We absolutely love traditional stuffed cabbage rolls in our home. They’re a truly satisfying meal that’s both delicious and wholesome. However, let’s be honest – making them can be quite time-consuming, often reserved for those leisurely Sunday afternoons. That’s why this unstuffed cabbage roll soup has become such a game-changer! It captures all the beloved components and flavors of its rolled counterpart but streamlines the process significantly. Instead of meticulously wrapping, everything is simply chopped and simmered together in a rich, tomato-infused broth. The result is a comforting, robust soup that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.
Why Choose Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup?
Soup season is here, and we couldn’t be more excited! This easy cabbage roll soup is a fantastic addition to your cold-weather rotation, but it’s equally delightful any time you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal. Beyond needing a fresh head of cabbage and some ground meat, most of the ingredients are basic staples you likely already have tucked away in your pantry. A well-stocked pantry truly makes preparing simple, nutritious meals like this unstuffed cabbage soup a breeze. If you’re looking to organize and optimize your own, I’ve even written a dedicated blog post on stocking your pantry with essential ingredients – give it a look!
This super easy Cabbage Roll Soup masterfully combines the essence of two favorite dishes into one incredible meal. It simply doesn’t get much better or tastier when you’re looking for comforting, nourishing food. What truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. You can prepare this delicious cabbage soup on your stovetop in about 45 minutes for a quick weeknight dinner, let it slow cook in your crock pot all day for minimal fuss, or whip it up in mere minutes using your Instant Pot. The choice is entirely yours, adapting perfectly to your schedule and preferences.
The Perfect Weeknight Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
This recipe is an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights when you need to serve a nourishing and hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Aside from fresh cabbage and ground beef, this unstuffed cabbage soup primarily relies on pantry staple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. It’s a testament to how satisfying and complete a meal can be with just a few core components.
If you love the healthy, savory flavors of this easy cabbage roll soup, you are sure to enjoy these other comforting soup recipes too: Creamy Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup, Cream of Reuben Soup, and this hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup. Each offers a unique spin on classic comfort food.
Irresistible Flavors of Unstuffed Cabbage
If you’re a fan of the rich, savory, and slightly tangy flavors that define traditional cabbage rolls, then this easy unstuffed cabbage soup recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Freshly ground beef, crisp cabbage leaves, and all your favorite cabbage roll ingredients effortlessly blend together in a single pot, creating a meal that’s both flavorful and incredibly convenient. While traditionally made with ground beef, feel free to use another ground meat you have on hand, such as ground turkey or pork, to suit your dietary preferences or what’s available in your fridge.
Key Ingredients for the Best Cabbage Roll Soup
This comforting soup relies on a straightforward list of ingredients, most of which are kitchen staples. For the full, printable recipe card with precise measurements and detailed instructions, please scroll to the bottom of this post.
- Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef for this easy cabbage roll soup recipe, as it minimizes excess fat while providing a rich, savory base. You can use 80/20 or 90/10 lean ground beef.
- Green Cabbage: The true star of this recipe! Green cabbage provides that signature texture and slightly sweet, earthy flavor. Make sure to chop it into manageable pieces so it softens beautifully in the soup.
- Onion: White onion is my go-to for its sharp, sweet flavor that mellows beautifully when cooked. However, any type of onion (yellow, red) will work perfectly to build the foundational aromatics.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors. Always adjust to taste throughout the cooking process.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds an incredible depth of aromatic flavor. Don’t skip it if you can help it!
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide a robust, slightly chunky tomato base and a touch of acidity that brightens the soup.
- Tomato Paste: This concentrated tomato product is a secret weapon for adding a deep, rich umami flavor and helping to thicken the soup slightly, giving it more body.
- Tomato Juice: To further intensify the tomato flavor and contribute to the soup’s liquid base, tomato juice is a fantastic addition.
- Rice: I typically use instant brown rice because it cooks quickly and directly in the soup, absorbing all those wonderful flavors. Uncooked rice is simply added straight into the pot.
- Beef Bouillon: For an extra layer of savory beef flavor, I use beef bouillon cubes (or granules) dissolved in water, which acts as our flavorful broth. Beef broth can also be used.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A small amount of Worcestershire sauce adds a fantastic deep, savory, and slightly tangy note, enhancing the overall complexity of the soup.
- Water: Used in combination with bouillon cubes to form the soup’s base.
How to Make the Best Cabbage Roll Soup (Stovetop Method)
Preparing this easy cabbage roll soup recipe couldn’t be more straightforward, making it perfect for novice cooks and busy weeknights alike. Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal:
- Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat on your stovetop, brown the lean ground beef. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion softens and becomes translucent, and the garlic is fragrant (about 3-5 minutes). Be sure to drain any excess fat from the pot before proceeding.
- Step 2: Wilt the Cabbage. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot with the browned beef mixture. Stir well to combine and allow the cabbage to cook down and wilt for approximately 5 minutes. This step helps to soften the cabbage and meld its flavors with the aromatics.
- Step 3: Simmer to Perfection. Incorporate the remaining ingredients into the pot: diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato juice, uncooked instant brown rice, beef bouillon cubes (and water if using bouillon), and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything thoroughly to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
- Step 4: Serve and Enjoy. Ladle the hearty soup into bowls and serve hot. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage Tips: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, this hearty cabbage soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags.
How To Make Cabbage Roll Soup In The Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
For those days when you want a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of a long day, preparing this cabbage roll soup in the crock pot is incredibly convenient. Simply brown your ground beef with the onion and garlic first (this step adds a lot of flavor, though you could skip it in a pinch if you’re truly pressed for time). Then, add the browned ground beef along with all the remaining ingredients directly into your slow cooker. Stir everything together, cover, and cook on low for approximately 5 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is fully cooked. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and deepen over time, resulting in an exceptionally comforting and flavorful soup.
Love it? Pin it!
If you fall in love with this easy and delicious cabbage roll soup, make sure you don’t lose the recipe! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you go so you can easily find it again for future meal planning.
FAQs About Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making this hearty unstuffed cabbage soup:
- Is Cabbage Roll Soup Keto-Friendly? This particular cabbage roll soup recipe, as written, is not considered keto-friendly because it contains rice, which is high in carbohydrates. Both white and brown rice are generally not suitable for ketogenic diets. However, you can easily adapt it! To make a low-carb, keto-friendly version, simply substitute the rice with an equivalent amount of cauliflower rice.
- How do you make cabbage roll soup from scratch? If you’re looking for a homemade cabbage roll soup recipe to make entirely from scratch, you’ve definitely come to the right place! This comprehensive recipe provides all the steps and ingredients you need to create this hearty soup from basic components in your own kitchen.
- What kind of meat is used in cabbage roll soup? Traditionally, ground beef is the meat of choice for cabbage roll soup, offering a rich and familiar flavor. However, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can use lean ground beef, ground turkey, ground pork, or even a combination of meats to suit your preference.
- Can I make cabbage roll soup vegetarian or vegan? Absolutely! To transform this into a vegetarian or vegan cabbage roll soup, you can easily substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative (like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger) or use canned beans (such as kidney beans or black beans) for protein. Be sure to also substitute the beef bouillon with vegetable bouillon or vegetable broth, and you’ll be all set for a delicious plant-based meal.
- How do I store leftover cabbage roll soup? Storing leftover cabbage roll soup is simple. Transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Can cabbage roll soup be frozen? Yes, this delicious cabbage roll soup freezes exceptionally well! It’s a fantastic recipe for meal prepping. I often make a double batch specifically to freeze half for future quick meals. When using freezer bags, remember to leave some space at the top for the soup to expand as it freezes. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Customizing Your Cabbage Roll Soup: Substitutions & Variations
One of the best things about cooking is the freedom to get creative! When it comes to making substitutions or adding variations to recipes, don’t be afraid to tailor the ingredients to suit your personal taste, dietary preferences, or what you simply have on hand. Make this easy cabbage roll soup truly your own!
- Instead of using separate tomato paste and tomato juice, you can simplify by using a single can of crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce for a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
- For an even deeper and richer flavor profile, consider using beef broth or chicken broth instead of just water in combination with bouillon cubes. This will intensify the savory notes.
- While brown rice adds a nutty flavor and wholesome texture, you can easily try white rice for a softer texture or cauliflower rice for a low-carb, keto-friendly alternative.
- If ground beef isn’t your preference or you’re looking for variety, feel free to substitute it with ground turkey, ground pork, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative. Really, any ground meat will work beautifully.
- To infuse your soup with a more Italian flair, stir in a teaspoon or two of Italian seasoning along with the other spices.
- If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch or two of chili powder or a dash of red pepper flakes to spice things up a bit.
- When serving, a sprinkle of freshly shredded Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add a wonderful creamy, tangy finish.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Unstuffed Cabbage Soup
- Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley just before serving for a vibrant pop of green and a fresh, herbaceous aroma.
- For an additional layer of nuanced flavor in this easy unstuffed cabbage soup, toss in one or two bay leaves while it simmers. Remember to remove them before serving.
- Store any cooled leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it excellent for meal prepping.
- Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process. A little extra salt, pepper, or even a splash more Worcestershire can make a big difference.
- If the soup seems too thick, add a bit more water or broth until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Let’s face it. Cabbage rolls, no matter how incredibly delicious they are, can be quite a labor of love to make. While I still adore them and prepare them, I typically reserve traditional stuffed cabbage rolls for a special Sunday meal when I have ample time to dedicate to their meticulous preparation.
I am a firm believer in making recipes easier without compromising on flavor. So, not only have I transformed Stuffed Cabbage Rolls into this incredibly satisfying soup, but I’ve also created a super easy skillet meal version! It’s the same genius concept: all the ingredients of cabbage rolls are chopped and quickly prepared in a single pan. This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet meal can be on your table in minutes instead of hours, proving that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
More Cabbage-Inspired Recipes to Love
If you’re a fan of cabbage and looking for more delicious ways to incorporate it into your meals, explore these other fantastic recipes from my kitchen:
- Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage: A quick and easy way to enjoy a classic comfort meal.
- Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: For when you have the time and desire for the traditional, perfectly wrapped experience – dare I say, some of the best cabbage rolls you’ll ever make!
- Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet: An even faster one-pan meal that takes the deconstructed cabbage roll concept to a new level of ease. These deconstructed cabbage rolls are hard to resist!
- Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner In The Crockpot: Another slow cooker gem for a hands-off, flavorful meal.
- Creamy Cabbage and Bleu Cheese Soup (pictured above): A unique and incredibly flavorful soup that will convert even bleu cheese skeptics.
- Brenda Gantt’s Cabbage Casserole: A comforting baked dish for another take on cabbage.
Serving Suggestions for Cabbage Roll Soup
This hearty Cabbage Roll Soup is a complete meal on its own, packed with protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. However, if you’re looking to round out your dinner, consider serving it with:
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping into the flavorful broth.
- A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to add freshness and crunch.
- Cornbread or garlic bread for a comforting accompaniment.
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top, along with some fresh dill or parsley for garnish.
Perfect for those chilly winter nights, but truly delightful any time of year, this unstuffed cabbage roll soup recipe is ideal for an easy, satisfying weeknight meal. If you’re searching for a hearty dish bursting with bold, comforting flavors, this soup is an absolute must-try that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
I have an amazing Collection of the Best Soups Ever on my blog that you might enjoy exploring!
Alternatively, take a moment to browse the dedicated soup category on my blog. We genuinely adore soup in our household, so you’ll find MANY delicious options to choose from!
Now, let’s gather our ingredients and make some truly comforting Cabbage Roll Soup!
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Print Recipe
Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe (Crockpot or Stove Top)
Equipment
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12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
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Meat Chopper, 5 Curve Blades Ground Beef Chopper
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Crock-Pot Cook & Carry 6-Quart Oval Portable Manual Slow Cooker
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Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven. Classic Red Enamel Dutch Oven (Island Spice Red)
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AmazonBasics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 head green cabbage chopped
- 3/4 cup chopped onion
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 14.5 ounce cans of diced tomatoes + 3 cans water
- 3 beef bouillon cubes
- 3 Tablespoons Tomato Paste
- 1 1/2 cups tomato juice
- 1/2 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 cup instant brown rice uncooked
Instructions
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In your soup pot, brown ground beef with onion and garlic. Drain any excess fat.
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Add cabbage and combine to wilt for about 5 minutes.
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Add the remainder of the ingredients into the pot. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes.
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Serve hot.
Notes
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. In the freezer, the cabbage soup will keep for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on October 31, 2018. It has been updated to improve user experience and re-shared on September 22, 2023.
