Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Name: Stuffed Cabbage Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 head green cabbage; 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

June 19, 2025

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The aroma of simmering vegetables wafts through the air as you prepare this delightful stuffed cabbage soup. Imagine a cozy evening where each spoonful warms your soul and fills your belly with bliss. This dish is loaded with vibrant flavors that dance harmoniously in your mouth, making it the perfect comfort food for those chilly nights.

As you gather round the dinner table with friends or family, laughter abounds while everyone digs into this colorful bowl of joy. It’s not just a meal; it’s a cherished memory waiting to unfold as stories are shared over steaming bowls of goodness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This hearty stuffed cabbage soup is easy to prepare and makes meal prep a breeze.
The flavors meld beautifully, creating a warm embrace in every bite.
Visually stunning with its bright colors, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Perfect for meal prepping or customizing based on seasonal veggies!

A few months ago, my best friend discovered this recipe and claimed it was so good that she almost shed tears of joy while eating it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Green Cabbage: Choose a firm head of green cabbage; it should feel heavy for its size and have crisp leaves for wrapping.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Opt for lean meat to keep the soup light yet hearty; about 1 pound works well.
Rice: Uncooked white rice adds texture and heartiness; however, brown rice can also be used for extra nutrition.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness to the dish; chop finely to blend seamlessly into the flavors.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse wonderful aroma and flavor; use 2-3 cloves minced for maximum impact.
Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; about 4 cups will make the soup flavorful.
Diced Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes brings acidity and brightness to balance the flavors; fire-roasted varieties add depth.
Bell Peppers: Any color works! They add crunch and sweetness; chop them finely so they blend well into the soup.
Spices (Paprika & Italian Seasoning): These spices elevate the flavor profile; smoked paprika offers an amazing twist!

For the Garnish:

Parsley or Dill: Fresh herbs add a burst of freshness on top before serving; sprinkle them generously!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by removing the core from the cabbage head and gently separating the leaves. Rinse them under cold water and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté chopped onions in olive oil until they turn translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it.

Add Meat: Stir in ground beef or turkey into the pot with onions. Cook until browned while breaking it apart with a spatula—this takes about 7 minutes.

Add Rice & Spices: Mix in uncooked rice along with garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let everything toast together for 1-2 minutes to enhance those flavors.

Pour in Broth & Tomatoes: Add vegetable broth and diced tomatoes into the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to let simmer—about 20 minutes will work wonders!

Add Cabbage Leaves: Gently fold in your cabbage leaves one by one into the pot. Cover and cook until tender—around 10-15 more minutes should do nicely!

Serve hot with fresh herbs sprinkled on top as you revel in that cozy moment. Enjoy every last drop of your creation!

Now that you’ve mastered this delightful stuffed cabbage soup recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends who appreciate warm meals as much as you do! Each bite tells a story—your story—of warmth, love, and laughter around the table.

You Must Know

The key to a great Stuffed Cabbage Soup is using fresh ingredients; they enhance flavor dramatically.
A splash of lemon juice adds brightness, balancing the rich flavors beautifully.
Don’t skip the simmering time; allow at least an hour for flavors to meld.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant; then brown your ground meat before adding diced tomatoes and cabbage. This sequence builds layers of flavor that make your soup unforgettable.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian twist. You can also toss in some rice or quinoa for added texture and heartiness.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen up the soup.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate your Stuffed Cabbage Soup, consider using homemade broth instead of store-bought.
Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning perfectly.
Experiment with herbs like dill or thyme for a unique flavor profile.

My best friend once tasted this soup at my place and declared it “the warm hug” she needed on a cold day. It’s those moments that make cooking so rewarding!

FAQ

Can I freeze Stuffed Cabbage Soup?

Yes, it freezes well! Just cool completely before transferring to containers.

What should I serve with Stuffed Cabbage Soup?

Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

How do I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to kick up the heat level!

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