Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- Cook the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the Aromatics: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, celery, and bell pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well to combine.
- Season the Soup: Add the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the soup.
- Add Rice and Cabbage: Stir in the cooked rice and shredded cabbage. Add the bay leaf to the pot.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Bring to a Boil: Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer: Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or paprika, depending on your taste preferences.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Tips for Success
- Rice Options: You can use cooked brown rice for a heartier version, or even swap in quinoa or cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a low-carb option.
- Meat Variations: While ground beef is traditional, you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or pork in this soup. For a richer flavor, try using a mix of meats.
- Make-Ahead: Cabbage Roll Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after a day or two! You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave out the rice if you plan to freeze it, as it may become mushy when reheated. You can add fresh rice when reheating.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to the soup while it’s cooking.
Why You’ll Love Cabbage Roll Soup
This Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty, filling, and comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy nights at home. The tender cabbage and savory broth make it incredibly satisfying, while the addition of rice and ground beef gives it a rich, well-rounded flavor. It’s an easy one-pot meal that’s loaded with vegetables and packed with nutrients, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, it’s customizable to suit any tastes and is great for meal prepping or freezing for later. Enjoy this soul-warming soup with a slice of crusty bread or some garlic breadsticks for the perfect meal!