Q1: What is the secret ingredient in cabbage rolls?

The secret ingredient that truly transforms a cabbage roll soup recipe is a splash of apple cider vinegar added right before serving. It brightens the tomato broth, cuts through the richness of the beef, and gives each spoonful a balanced, crave-worthy flavor. Some chefs also like to add a hint of smoked paprika or brown sugar —these simple touches make all the difference.

Q2: What are some common mistakes in cabbage soup?

The most common mistakes in a cabbage roll soup recipe are overcooking the cabbage and forgetting to season gradually. Cabbage should be tender, not mushy, and seasoning in layers ensures that every bite tastes flavorful. Another frequent mistake is skipping the acidity—without vinegar or lemon juice, the soup can taste heavy and flat.

Q3: What ingredients go in cabbage soup?

A classic cabbage roll soup recipe includes: Ground beef (or turkey/lentils for a lighter version) Chopped cabbage Onion and garlic Rice (for heartiness) Diced tomatoes and tomato sauce Beef or vegetable broth Seasonings like paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaves These simple ingredients create a rich, homey soup that tastes like traditional cabbage rolls—without all the extra steps.

Q4: What spices are good in cabbage roll soup?

The best spices for a cabbage roll soup recipe are smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, bay leaf, and a pinch of chili flakes. Smoked paprika adds depth, thyme gives an herbal note, and chili brings just enough heat to wake up the flavor. For extra warmth, a touch of cumin or coriander can also enhance the broth beautifully. Want more soups you can make ahead and freeze like this cabbage roll soup recipe ? Explore Freezer-Friendly Gut-Healthy Soups — perfect for meal prep and busy days.

Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Soup You’ll Love [2025]

Name: Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Eastern European, American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped; 1 large onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup uncooked white rice; 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 6 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 2 bay leaves; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish

Description

A cozy one-pot cabbage roll soup recipe that combines tender cabbage, seasoned beef, rice, and tangy tomato broth. It’s everything you love about classic cabbage rolls—without the rolling! Hearty, rich, and comforting.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef

1 medium green cabbage, chopped

1 large onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup uncooked white rice

1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

2 bay leaves

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until soft.

2. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

5. Add chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir until cabbage softens slightly.

6. Pour in beef broth and stir in the rice and bay leaves.

7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

8. Remove bay leaves and stir in apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

9. Ladle into bowls, top with parsley or dill, and serve hot.

Notes

You can substitute beef with ground turkey or lentils for a lighter version.

For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth and mushrooms instead of meat.

This soup freezes beautifully—just cool completely before storing.

Add vinegar at the end for a brighter, well-balanced flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup, Dinner
Method: One-Pot Cooking, Simmering
Cuisine: Comfort Food, American, Eastern European

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
Calories: 275
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 19g
Cholesterol: 60mg