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Soups using beef broth are a hearty and savory option made with ground meat, fresh vegetables, rice, and cabbage in a rich tomato-based broth. This quick recipe is ready in just 50 minutes and yields six generous servings. It’s a warm, satisfying dish perfect for cozy evenings or a comforting meal after a long day.
When I first made this Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup, it transported me back to chilly Oregon evenings when a big, flavorful pot of soup was the ultimate way to bring everyone to the table.
Table of Contents
- Why make Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup?
- What ingredients do you need for Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup?
- How do you make Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup step by step?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup
- How to store and reheat Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup?
- What can you pair with Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup?
Why make Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup?
Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup is a rich, satisfying meal that brings together classic flavors in an easy, one-pot recipe. It’s loaded with nutrients and perfect for those craving a warm, filling dish without the fuss of rolling individual cabbage rolls.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep and is ready in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknights.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with cabbage, rice, and vegetables, it’s a wholesome, balanced meal.
- One-Pot Simplicity: All the cooking happens in a single pot, meaning fewer dishes to clean.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the protein or add frozen corn for an extra pop of sweetness.
What ingredients do you need for Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup?
This soup comes together with a medley of fresh vegetables, pantry staples, and protein, creating a balanced and flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chopped green cabbage
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
The combination of beef broth, cabbage, and tomatoes creates a hearty base, while the rice makes the soup filling and complete.
How do you make Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup step by step?
This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, all in one pot. Follow these instructions for a delicious, foolproof meal:
Step 1 — Brown the meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup light.
Step 2 — Sauté the vegetables
Add the diced onion, garlic, and green bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.
You might also enjoy our creamy chicken tortilla soup.
Step 3 — Combine the base ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4 — Add the cabbage and rice
Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the chopped cabbage and uncooked rice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 5 — Simmer until tender
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender.
Step 6 — Optional: Add the corn
If you’re using frozen corn, stir it in and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
Step 7 — Garnish and serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
For more ideas, check out our slow cooker oxtail soup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup
Can I use a different type of protein?
Yes, ground turkey works just as well as ground beef. For a vegetarian version, you can use plant-based crumbles or even lentils.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What type of rice should I use?
Both white and brown rice work well in this recipe. Brown rice may need an extra 5 minutes of cooking time.
Is the corn necessary?
No, the corn is optional. It adds a touch of sweetness but can be omitted if you prefer.
Looking for something similar? Try our how to make french onion.
How to store and reheat Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.
If freezing, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can you pair with Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or even a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup
Equipment
- large pot
- Dutch oven
- cutting board
- knife
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 clove garlic, minced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained (15 oz)
- 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz)
- 4 cup beef broth
- 2 cup water
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cup chopped green cabbage
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, and green bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the chopped cabbage and uncooked rice to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Cover the pot and simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the cabbage is tender.
- If using, stir in the frozen corn and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes

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