Easy Stuffed Cabbage Soup

After a long day, there’s nothing quite like coming home to the warm, inviting scent of Easy Stuffed Cabbage Soup simmering on the stove. This hearty dish combines the comforting flavors of seasoned beef, tender cabbage, and rice in a delicious tomato broth, taking just about an hour from prep to table. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and satisfaction, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

This soup is ideal for families seeking a nourishing meal or anyone wanting to warm up on a chilly day. You can prepare it in advance and store leftovers, as it also freezes beautifully for later enjoyment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The rich tomato broth creates a comforting base that complements the tender cabbage.
• Ground beef adds a satisfying heartiness to each bowl.
• The combination of herbs brings depth of flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• It’s a one-pot meal, minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to make the soup:

For the Soup

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups tomato broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Tomato broth can be substituted with vegetable broth.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground beef can be replaced with turkey or chicken.
• Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
• Vegetable broth is a great vegetarian option.
• Cabbage can be swapped with kale or Swiss chard.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious soup.

Brown the beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat to keep your soup from becoming greasy.

Sauté the onion and garlic

Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.

Stir in the vegetables and rice

Stir in the chopped cabbage, rice, tomato broth, and diced tomatoes for a wholesome mixture.

Season the soup

Season with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper, enhancing the flavor profile of your dish.

Simmer the soup

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes until cabbage is tender and rice is cooked through.

Serve the soup

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This soup can be frozen for later enjoyment.

How to Store It

Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheat: Use a stovetop over medium heat for 10-15 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Chop the cabbage into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Adjust seasonings according to taste preferences, adding more herbs if desired.
• For extra richness, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
• Allow flavors to meld overnight in the fridge before serving for enhanced taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Enjoy with a light salad for a balanced dinner.
• Serve alongside your favorite pickles for a tangy contrast.