If you love stuffed cabbage rolls but don’t want to spend hours rolling and baking them, this Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup is the perfect solution! It has all the classic flavors of ground beef, cabbage, tomatoes, and rice, but in an easy-to-make, one-pot soup.
This recipe is hearty, filling, and packed with rich flavors. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you, making it a perfect weeknight meal or meal-prep favorite.
Let’s get started on this warm, cozy, and delicious soup!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, diced – Adds depth of flavor
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the taste
- 4 cups chopped cabbage – The star of the dish
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes – Adds a rich tomato base
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes – For extra texture
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste – Thickens the soup
- 5 cups beef broth – Helps balance the flavors
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami richness
- ½ cup uncooked white or brown rice – Makes the soup hearty
- 1 tsp dried oregano – For classic cabbage roll flavor
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – Adds warmth and depth
- ½ tsp dried thyme – Enhances the aroma
- 1 tsp salt – Adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper – For a little spice
- 1 bay leaf (optional) – For added flavor
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional) – Balances acidity
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup shredded carrots – Adds natural sweetness
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes – For a little heat
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers – For extra flavor
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef (Optional, but Recommended)
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until browned.
- Drain excess grease and transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Assemble the Slow Cooker
- Add onions, garlic, cabbage, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the slow cooker.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, rice, oregano, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add the bay leaf and brown sugar (if using).
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cook on LOW for 7-8 hours (best for rich flavors).
- OR cook on HIGH for 4-5 hours if you’re short on time.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Stir well and ladle into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Tastes Just Like Cabbage Rolls – But without the extra work!
✔️ Slow Cooker Magic – Hands-off cooking with maximum flavor.
✔️ Hearty & Filling – Packed with protein, veggies, and rice.
✔️ Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable, pantry-friendly ingredients.
✔️ Great for Meal Prep – Even better the next day!
Serving Suggestions & Variations
What to Serve with Cabbage Roll Soup
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
- Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the richness.
- Mashed Potatoes – Serve the soup over mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
Tasty Variations to Try
- Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or omit it entirely.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
- Vegetarian Version: Use lentils instead of beef and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan before serving.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a pot over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. It’s an easy, fuss-free way to enjoy the classic taste of cabbage rolls without all the rolling and stuffing!
Try this simple and delicious slow cooker soup today, and let me know how much you love it!
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Yes! Simmer on medium-low heat for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked rice?
Yes! Stir in 1 ½ cups of cooked rice during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
3. How do I make this soup thicker?
Let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or stir in 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with water.
4. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great for a lighter version.
5. What’s the best cabbage to use?
Green cabbage works best, but Savoy or Napa cabbage can also be used.