There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, don’t you think? It’s like a hug from the inside! This Cabbage Roll Soup with Ground Beef is one of my all-time favorites because it brings together all the vibrant flavors of traditional cabbage rolls, but in a cozy, easy-to-make soup form. I remember my mom stirring a big pot of this on chilly evenings, the aroma filling our home, drawing everyone into the kitchen. We’d gather around the table, spoons in hand, ready to dive into this hearty dish. Each bite was packed with tender cabbage, savory beef, and hints of spices that felt like home. Now, I make this soup for my family, and it’s become a staple for our weeknight dinners. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to connect and create those precious moments together. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be counting the days until you can make it again!
Ingredients for Cabbage Roll Soup with Ground Beef
Gathering all the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef: Use lean beef for less grease and a healthier option.
- 1 medium onion: Chopped to add a sweet flavor base.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced for that aromatic kick that makes everything better.
- 4 cups cabbage: Shredded, of course! This is the star of the show, giving the soup its classic character.
- 6 cups beef broth: A rich base that ties everything together.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Use a 14.5 oz can; they add a lovely tang and sweetness.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: This adds depth and a hint of umami.
For seasoning, you’ll need:
- 1 tbsp salt: To enhance all the flavors.
- 1 tsp black pepper: For a little heat.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Earthy and fragrant.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: A classic herb to round out the taste.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to whipping up a delicious pot of Cabbage Roll Soup that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!
How to Prepare Cabbage Roll Soup with Ground Beef
Making this Cabbage Roll Soup is a breeze, and I promise you’ll have it ready in no time! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a deliciously warm meal.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating your large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add in your 1 lb of ground beef. Use your wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. You want to brown it evenly, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the beef is no longer pink, take a moment to drain any excess fat. Just tilt the pot slightly and spoon it out, or you can carefully transfer the beef to a strainer if you prefer. This way, your soup won’t end up greasy!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Now it’s time to add in those lovely aromatics! Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook them together for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the onions to turn translucent and fragrant, which means your kitchen will start smelling heavenly! Make sure not to let them burn, so keep an eye on the heat.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Next, it’s time to bring in the star of the show—cabbage! Stir in the 4 cups of shredded cabbage, followed by the 6 cups of beef broth, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce. Give everything a good stir, and make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to get all those flavorful bits mixed in. Bring the mixture to a boil; this should take about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Now, let’s add the seasoning! Sprinkle in your 1 tbsp of salt, 1 tsp of black pepper, 1 tsp of dried thyme, and 1 tsp of dried oregano. Stir everything well, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This is the magic moment when all those flavors meld together, creating a savory goodness that you won’t want to miss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour!
- Flavorful and Comforting: This soup captures all the delicious flavors of traditional cabbage rolls, making it a warm hug in a bowl.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe makes a big batch, so it’s great for leftovers or to freeze for later. You’ll always have a cozy meal on hand!
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasonings or add your favorite veggies. It’s a flexible recipe that works with what you have!
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this soup! It’s packed with nutrients and flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Tips for Success with Cabbage Roll Soup
To ensure your Cabbage Roll Soup with Ground Beef turns out absolutely delicious, here are some tried-and-true tips that I always keep in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh cabbage and high-quality ground beef. Fresh ingredients really elevate the flavor of the soup and make a noticeable difference!
- Adjust the Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to taste and tweak the seasonings as you go! Everyone’s palate is different, so add more salt, black pepper, or herbs to suit your preference. A splash of hot sauce can also add a delightful kick!
- Make it Ahead: This soup is perfect for making in advance. The flavors only get better as it sits, so feel free to prepare it a day ahead. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve!
- Experiment with Add-Ins: If you have any leftover veggies in the fridge, toss them in! Carrots, bell peppers, or even some beans can add extra flavor and nutrition without compromising the dish.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing!
With these tips in your back pocket, I know you’ll make a fantastic pot of Cabbage Roll Soup that your family will love! Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
It’s important to note that the nutritional values for this Cabbage Roll Soup with Ground Beef can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. The estimated values per serving (1 bowl) are approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 600mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
These values are intended to serve as a general guideline, so if you’re tracking specific dietary needs, be sure to adjust accordingly! Enjoy every hearty bowl of this delightful soup!
FAQ About Cabbage Roll Soup
Got questions about this delicious Cabbage Roll Soup with Ground Beef? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries I hear, along with my answers.
- Can I use different types of meat? Absolutely! While this recipe features ground beef, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the meat you choose.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this soup? Yes! You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add some beans or lentils for protein, and toss in your favorite veggies to make it hearty and satisfying.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove!
- Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to mix in any vegetables you have on hand, like carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini. Just chop them up and add them in with the cabbage. It’s a great way to boost the nutrition and flavor!
- How spicy is this soup? This soup is mild, but you can easily adjust the heat level to your liking. If you enjoy a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when seasoning. Taste as you go to find that perfect balance!
I hope these answers help you feel confident in making this comforting Cabbage Roll Soup! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need tips. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve whipped up a delicious batch of Cabbage Roll Soup with Ground Beef, you might be wondering how to store those tasty leftovers. No worries, I’ve got you covered! This soup is fantastic for meal prep, and it holds up beautifully in the fridge or freezer.
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely at room temperature—this helps prevent condensation and keeps it from becoming watery. Once it’s cooled, transfer the soup into airtight containers. If you’re planning to eat it within the next few days, your fridge will be just fine! It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in there.
If you want to keep it for a longer time, consider freezing portions. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. I like to label them with the date and contents, so I know what’s in there when I’m digging through my freezer later. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious flavor.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is super easy! If it’s frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. For a quick option, you can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. If using the stovetop, pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium-low, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. Just be careful not to let it boil—this can affect the texture. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems a bit thick after reheating.
And there you have it! Simple storage and reheating tips to ensure your Cabbage Roll Soup remains as delightful as when it was first made. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Check out more recipes on Pinterest!
Cabbage Roll Soup with Ground Beef
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean beef for less grease.
- 1 medium onion Chopped.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced.
- 4 cups cabbage Shredded.
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz can.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Seasonings
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil.
- Add the salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.