Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Stuffed Cabbage Soup is a warm and hearty dish that brings the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls into a comforting bowl of soup. It’s perfect for chilly days and family gatherings, providing a rich and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, which makes it a fantastic choice for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and flavors that everyone in the family will enjoy! The combination of ground beef, cabbage, and tomatoes creates a robust and wholesome dish.

How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Soup

The process is simple and requires minimal effort. Start by browning the ground beef, followed by sautéing the onions and cabbage. Then, combine all the ingredients and let them simmer to blend the flavors. Finally, stir in the cooked rice just before serving for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1/2 head cabbage, cut into 8 wedges and sliced thickly
• 1 can (8 ounces) chopped tomatoes, not drained
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups cooked rice

Directions

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook, crumbling it until browned. Drain and set aside on a plate.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot and sauté the chopped onion until tender. Remove and set aside with the ground beef.
3. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot and cook the cabbage until tender and it starts to wilt.
4. Add the ground beef and sautéed onions back to the pot. Then add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, chopped tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
5. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes.
6. Just before serving, stir in the cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy!

How to Serve Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Stuffed Cabbage Soup

• For added flavor, sauté the cabbage until it’s caramelized.
• You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Don’t skip the Italian seasoning! It really enhances the flavor.

Variation

Try adding different vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. You can also use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?
A: Absolutely! Just chop up about 4 cups of fresh tomatoes to replace the canned tomatoes.

Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you check that your beef broth and canned tomatoes do not contain gluten.