If you love traditional stuffed cabbage rolls but don’t have the time or patience to roll each leaf by hand, Cabbage Roll Soup is the hearty shortcut you’ve been waiting for. This comforting, one-pot dish captures all the familiar flavors of classic Eastern European cabbage rolls—tender cabbage, savory ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and fluffy rice—but skips the fuss.

Instead of wrapping and baking, everything is simmered together in a rich, flavorful broth, creating a soup that’s just as satisfying but far simpler to make. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to meal prep for the week, Cabbage Roll Soup delivers on taste, nutrition, and convenience.

It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and highly adaptable. You can customize it to suit low-carb, vegan, or high-protein diets—all while keeping the essence of what makes this dish a favorite in so many homes around the world.

The Origins of Cabbage Roll Soup

The exact origin of cabbage rolls is hard to pin down. From Polish golabki to Ukrainian holubtsi and Middle Eastern malfouf, versions of stuffed cabbage exist across Europe and the Middle East. These traditional recipes typically involve wrapping a seasoned meat and rice filling in blanched cabbage leaves, then simmering the rolls in a tomato-based sauce.

As delightful as the original dish is, it can be time-consuming. That’s where the deconstructed version, or Cabbage Roll Soup, comes into play. Home cooks began adapting the recipe by simply combining all the ingredients into a soup pot, bypassing the rolling process without sacrificing the flavor. This innovation not only saves time but also creates a more rustic, hearty feel—perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.

Over time, the soup has become a popular staple in North American kitchens, loved for its convenience and rich, comforting taste.

Nutritional Benefits of Cabbage Roll Soup

One of the biggest advantages of Cabbage Roll Soup—besides its flavor—is its nutritional value. Each spoonful offers a balance of protein, fiber, healthy carbs, and a wide range of essential nutrients.

Key Ingredients & Their Health Benefits

Cabbage
- Low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamin C and vitamin K.
- Supports digestion and reduces inflammation.
Lean Ground Beef
- Excellent source of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
- Promotes muscle health and energy metabolism.
Tomatoes
- Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health.
- Contains vitamin A, C, and potassium.
Rice
- Provides complex carbohydrates for steady energy.
- Brown rice adds more fiber and magnesium.

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: 300–350
Protein: 20–25g
Carbohydrates: 25–30g
Fat: 10–15g
Fiber: 5–7g
Sodium: 600–800mg (depending on broth and seasoning)

This soup is ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying comforting food. It’s also a great option for meal preppers and busy families.

Essential Ingredients and Substitutions

The beauty of Cabbage Roll Soup lies in its simplicity. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and the dish is highly adaptable to your dietary preferences.

Core Ingredients

Cabbage
- Traditional green cabbage is the go-to, but you can also use:
  - Savoy cabbage: softer leaves and milder flavor
  - Napa cabbage: tender and slightly sweet
Protein
- Ground beef is classic, but you can substitute:
  - Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option
  - Plant-based crumbles or lentils for a vegan twist
Grains
- Most recipes call for white rice, but alternatives include:
  - Brown rice for added fiber
  - Cauliflower rice for low-carb or keto-friendly meals
  - Quinoa for a gluten-free, high-protein alternative
Tomato Components
- These give the soup its signature flavor and richness:
  - Diced tomatoes
  - Tomato sauce or tomato paste
  - A pinch of sugar can balance acidity if desired

Smart Substitutions

Gluten-free? Skip regular rice and use quinoa or wild rice.
Low sodium? Choose low-sodium broth and season to taste.
Need more heat? Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

By adjusting ingredients to match your needs, you can make this nutrient-dense, budget-friendly soup a staple in your weekly rotation.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Cabbage Roll Soup is simple, satisfying, and perfect for home cooks at any level. Here’s a foolproof guide to creating a flavorful, comforting pot from scratch.

1. Sauté Aromatics

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves.
Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent.

2. Brown the Meat

Add 1 lb of ground beef (or turkey).
Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or smoked paprika.
Cook until the meat is no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.

3. Add Cabbage and Carrots

Stir in 4–5 cups of chopped green cabbage and 1 cup of sliced carrots.
Cook for another 5 minutes until the veggies begin to soften.

4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 can tomato sauce, and 4 cups beef broth.
Add 1–2 bay leaves, 1 tsp dried thyme, and optional parsley or oregano.

5. Simmer

Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Add Rice

Stir in 1/2 to 3/4 cup uncooked white rice.
Simmer for another 15 minutes or until rice is fully cooked.

7. Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasonings—add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
Remove bay leaves.

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Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.

Cooking Methods: Stove Top vs. Slow Cooker vs. Instant Pot

Whether you prefer traditional stovetop cooking or modern appliances, Cabbage Roll Soup can be adapted easily.

Stove Top (Traditional Method)

Gives you full control over texture and timing.
Follow the full recipe steps as listed above.
Total cooking time: 45–60 minutes.
Great for making adjustments and tasting as you go.

Slow Cooker

Perfect for set-and-forget cooking—great for busy days.
Instructions:
- Brown meat and sauté aromatics in a skillet first.
- Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add all ingredients except rice.
- Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- Add rice during the final hour of cooking.

Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker)

Fast, efficient, and retains deep flavor.
Instructions:
- Use Sauté mode to brown meat and cook onions/garlic.
- Add remaining ingredients including uncooked rice.
- Seal the lid and set to Pressure Cook on HIGH for 12 minutes.
- Let pressure naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release.

Each method creates a rich, satisfying soup—choose based on your schedule and cooking preference.

Variations of Cabbage Roll Soup

One of the best things about Cabbage Roll Soup is how easy it is to adapt. Whether you’re cooking for specific dietary needs or simply want to switch things up, these variations will keep the recipe exciting and personalized.

Vegetarian / Vegan

Replace ground beef with:
- Plant-based crumbles (soy or pea protein)
- Lentils or chopped mushrooms for a hearty texture
Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth
Add extra veggies like zucchini, corn, or bell peppers

Low-Carb / Keto

Substitute white rice with cauliflower rice
Reduce or omit carrots to lower sugar content
Opt for full-fat ground beef or turkey for more healthy fats

Spicy Kick

Add red chili flakes, hot paprika, or cayenne pepper
Dice in one or two jalapeños for fresh heat
Stir in a spoonful of harissa or sriracha for a bold, smoky layer

International Twists

Middle Eastern: Add cumin, coriander, and a touch of cinnamon
Indian-Inspired: Use curry powder, turmeric, and ginger
Mexican Flavor: Add chipotle peppers, black beans, and a squeeze of lime

These simple tweaks can turn this classic soup into something new and globally inspired—without changing the cooking method or base ingredients.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Pairing your Cabbage Roll Soup with the right sides and beverages elevates the whole meal experience. Here are some tried-and-true favorites:

Bread

Crusty sourdough, rye, or garlic bread make excellent companions
Use hearty rolls or baguette slices to soak up the flavorful broth

Salad

Keep it light with a green salad (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
Try a tangy vinaigrette or lemon dressing to contrast the savory soup

Beverages

Light-bodied red wines like Pinot Noir or Grenache complement the tomato base
For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water, mint tea, or chamomile tea

This soup works well as a complete one-pot meal, but a few simple sides can make it feel like a full-course dinner.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Meal prep friendly and freezer safe, Cabbage Roll Soup stores and reheats beautifully—if you have any leftovers!

Refrigeration

Cool completely before storing
Place in an airtight container in the fridge
Stays fresh for up to 4 days

Freezing

Freeze in single-serve containers or freezer bags
Label with date for tracking
Good for up to 3 months
Tip: Since rice absorbs liquid over time, consider slightly undercooking the rice if freezing

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the fridge (if frozen)
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat
Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup if it thickened

These storage tips help retain flavor and texture, making this soup a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Cabbage Roll Soup ahead of time?

Yes—absolutely! In fact, many people find that the soup tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have had time to meld. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It’s ideal for meal prep or next-day leftovers.

How can I prevent the cabbage from becoming too soft?

The trick is timing. Add the chopped cabbage later in the cooking process—about halfway through the simmering stage. This ensures it maintains some bite and doesn’t turn mushy. Keep an eye on the texture and test with a fork.

Is it possible to use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice is a great whole-grain option and adds a slightly nutty flavor. Just note that it takes longer to cook—typically 35–40 minutes—so either:

Pre-cook the brown rice before adding it to the soup, or
Extend the soup’s simmer time and add extra broth to avoid over-thickening.

Can I freeze the soup with rice in it?

Yes, but keep in mind that rice absorbs liquid over time. When reheating, you may need to:

Add extra broth or water to loosen the texture
Reheat slowly to avoid breaking down the ingredients

For best results, freeze before adding rice and stir it in fresh when reheating.

Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe

This hearty Cabbage Roll Soup delivers all the flavor of classic stuffed cabbage rolls in a cozy, one-pot soup that’s easy, healthy, and meal-prep friendly. With rich tomatoes, tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and rice, it's the perfect comfort food for busy nights.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Course dinner, lunch, Main Course, Soup

Cuisine American Comfort Food, Eastern European

Servings 6 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef's knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups/spoons

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 lb ground beef or turkey
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups chopped green cabbage
1 cup sliced carrots optional
1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
1 can 8 oz tomato sauce
4 cups beef broth or vegetable broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 –2 bay leaves
1/2 –3/4 cup uncooked white rice
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.

Brown the Meat

Add ground beef. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

Add Cabbage and Carrots

Stir in chopped cabbage and sliced carrots. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring often.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Add thyme and bay leaves. Stir to combine.

Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until cabbage softens.

Add Rice

Stir in uncooked rice. Simmer for another 15–20 minutes, until rice is tender.

Finish and Serve

Adjust seasoning. Remove bay leaves. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Vegetarian/Vegan: Use plant-based meat and vegetable broth.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice.
Make Ahead: Tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
Freezer Tip: Freeze without rice to prevent it from getting mushy. Add fresh rice when reheating.
Spicy Version: Add red chili flakes or diced jalapeño for heat.

Keyword Cabbage roll soup, easy cabbage soup, ground beef cabbage soup, healthy soup, one-pot soup, unstuffed cabbage soup