Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup: Your New Favorite 3-Step Comfort Bowl

Craving the hearty, savory goodness of traditional cabbage rolls without all the fuss? Look no further! This incredible Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup delivers all the classic flavors in a fraction of the time, making it the ultimate weeknight hero. Imagine tender ground beef, soft cabbage, and fluffy rice swimming in a rich, tomato-infused broth – it’s everything you love about Cabbage Roll Soup, simplified into a comforting, easy-to-make meal. Get ready to warm your soul with every spoonful!

 

Quick Glance Summary

This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup brings together ground beef, fresh cabbage, rice, and a robust tomato broth into a single pot. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and offers all the comfort of classic cabbage rolls without the time-consuming rolling process. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to create a truly heartwarming meal that will become a staple in your kitchen.

• ✦ 1 tbsp olive oil
• ✦ 1.5 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• ✦ 1 large onion, chopped
• ✦ 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ✦ 1 head green cabbage (about 2 lbs), cored and chopped
• ✦ 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• ✦ 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• ✦ 6 cups beef broth
• ✦ 1/2 cup uncooked white rice (long-grain or medium-grain)
• ✦ 2 tbsp brown sugar (or to taste)
• ✦ 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or to taste)
• ✦ 1 tsp dried dill
• ✦ 1 tsp paprika
• ✦ Salt and black pepper to taste
• ✦ Optional: fresh parsley or dill for garnish, sour cream for serving

Preparation Instructions

Follow these three simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup that will quickly become a family favorite. It’s a much quicker alternative to traditional Cabbage Roll Soup, perfect for any busy weeknight.

1. Brown Meat & Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, dried dill, and paprika; cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
2. Simmer Soup Base: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the chopped cabbage and uncooked rice. Stir well to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged.
3. Cook & Season: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

• ✦ Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick.
• ✦ Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for lentils or plant-based ground meat, and use vegetable broth.
• ✦ Add More Veggies: Stir in grated carrots or bell peppers with the onion for extra nutrients and flavor.
• ✦ Creamy Finish: Swirl in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier broth.
• ✦ Serve with Bread: This soup is fantastic with a side of crusty bread for dipping, or even a grilled cheese sandwich.

Reviews

Sarah M. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“This soup is a lifesaver! All the flavor of traditional cabbage rolls without the effort. My kids even loved it!”

David L. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Absolutely fantastic! I’ve made this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup three times already. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for cold evenings.”

Jessica R. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Great recipe! I added a little extra brown sugar because I like it sweeter, and it was perfect. A delicious take on Cabbage Roll Soup.”

FAQ

Q: Can I use different ground meat?
A: Yes, ground pork, turkey, or a mix of beef and pork work wonderfully in this recipe.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The flavors often deepen overnight. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Q: Can I freeze Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup?
A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Q: What kind of rice should I use?
A: Long-grain white rice or medium-grain white rice works best. Brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time and possibly more broth.

Q: Is it necessary to drain the fat from the ground beef?
A: Draining the fat helps prevent the soup from being overly greasy. While optional, it’s recommended for a cleaner, more balanced flavor.

Conclusion

This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience, simplifying a beloved classic into an accessible weeknight dish. It captures all the rich, savory essence of traditional Cabbage Roll Soup, but without the fuss of individual rolling, proving that delicious comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Enjoy this hearty bowl and savor the flavors that warm both body and soul.

Recipe Note

For an even richer flavor, let the soup sit for about 10-15 minutes off the heat before serving. This allows the flavors to meld further and the rice to fully absorb the broth.