Stuffed Cabbage Soup brings all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls into a hearty, easy-to-make soup form. This delicious dish combines ground beef and pork with rice, tomatoes, and tender cabbage, simmered in beef broth and seasoned with fragrant herbs and spices. Perfect for any chilly day, this soup is a wholesome, satisfying meal that warms the soul.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Cabbage Soup

This Stuffed Cabbage Soup is not just another soup recipe; it’s a comforting dish that resonates with many. Here are several reasons why you’ll adore it:

Hearty and filling, making it suitable for dinner.
Easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy options available, including vegetarian alternatives.
Great for meal prep; it stores and reheats well.
Rich in flavor, thanks to the combination of meats and spices.
A family-friendly recipe that everyone will enjoy.

This soup is a traditional stuffed cabbage soup that captures the essence of home-cooked meals and is gluten-free, making it suitable for a wider audience.

Ingredients for Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil (14 grams)
½ large onion, chopped
1 pound lean ground beef
1 pound lean ground pork
6 cups beef broth (48 ounces)
24 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
24 ounces crushed tomatoes, undrained
1 cup uncooked white rice (200 grams)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (17 grams)
1 ½ teaspoons salt (9 grams)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper (2 grams)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (3 grams)
1 teaspoon chili powder (3 grams)
2 bay leaves
2 sprigs fresh thyme, snipped
1 head of cabbage (about 1 pound), chopped into small pieces

How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped half onion and sauté for 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Add 1 pound each of lean ground beef and lean ground pork to the pot. Cook, breaking apart the meat with a spoon, until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
Step 3: Stir in 6 cups beef broth, 24 ounces diced tomatoes, 24 ounces crushed tomatoes, 1 cup uncooked white rice, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 ½ teaspoons salt, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 2 bay leaves, 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, and 1 head chopped cabbage.
Step 4: Bring the soup mixture to a low boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 25-30 minutes until the rice is tender and the cabbage is cooked through but still slightly crisp.

Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Keep these in mind:

Adjust the spices to suit your taste; adding more garlic or chili powder can enhance the flavor.
For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly.
Consider adding a splash of vinegar for a tangy kick.

Best Ways to Serve Stuffed Cabbage Soup

This savory cabbage soup recipe can be served in various ways. Pair it with:

Crusty bread for dunking.
Grated cheese on top for added creaminess.
A dollop of sour cream for a rich finish.

How to Store and Reheat Stuffed Cabbage Soup

To store, let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, warm it on the stovetop until heated through, allowing the flavors to meld again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Cabbage Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Stuffed Cabbage Soup?

The secret lies in balancing the flavors. Using both ground beef and pork gives a rich taste, while fresh herbs like thyme elevate the dish. Make sure not to overcook the cabbage; it should remain slightly crisp.

Can I make Stuffed Cabbage Soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Stuffed Cabbage Soup?

Be careful not to overcook the rice or cabbage. Both should retain a bit of texture. Also, taste as you go to ensure the seasoning is just right. Adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

Variations of Stuffed Cabbage Soup You Can Try

For a twist on this classic recipe, consider trying:

A vegetarian stuffed cabbage soup by replacing meat with lentils or mushrooms.
Adding different spices like cumin for an extra kick.
Using ground turkey for a healthier option.

This hearty stuffed cabbage soup is versatile and can adapt to your preferences.

Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Soup: 5 Comforting Ingredients - Stuffed Cabbage Soup - main visual representation

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