If you love classic cabbage rolls but don’t love the time it takes to make them, this Hearty One-Pot Cabbage Roll Soup is the perfect solution. It delivers all the cozy, nostalgic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in an easy, no-fuss soup. Even better, everything cooks in one pot, making it ideal for busy weeknights, cold evenings, or meal prep days. With tender beef, sweet cabbage, tomatoes, and rice simmered together, this soup is filling, comforting, and incredibly satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the beef
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. If needed, drain excess grease.
2. Add aromatics
Next, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for a few minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of the soup.
3. Add vegetables and liquid
Now, add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, beef broth, tomato sauce, uncooked rice, bay leaf, and brown sugar. Stir well so everything is evenly combined.
4. Simmer the soup
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Then, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it cook until the rice is tender and the vegetables are soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Finish and serve
Finally, remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a touch of brown sugar if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- Cut cabbage evenly: This helps it cook at the same rate as the rice and carrots.
- Don’t overcook the rice: Simmer just until tender to avoid a mushy texture.
- Balance the flavor: The brown sugar helps balance tomato acidity, but you can adjust it to taste.
- Stir occasionally: This prevents rice from settling and sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Even better the next day: Like most soups, the remember flavors deepen after resting overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cabbage roll soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep. In fact, it tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded.
Can I freeze cabbage roll soup?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Can I use a different protein?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken work well if you want a lighter option. Just cook until fully done.
Does the rice need to be cooked first?
No, the rice cooks directly in the soup, absorbing flavor as it simmers.
How can I make it more filling?
You can add extra rice, more cabbage, or serve it with crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream for a heartier meal.
