Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe

This hearty stuffed cabbage soup is perfect for those cold winter nights when you need something to warm you up. The combination of ground beef, cabbage, and rice makes for a filling and satisfying meal. The unique blend of flavors is sure to please any palate.

Photos of Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are staples that can be found in any kitchen. However, the use of cabbage might be a bit unusual for some. When you're shopping for cabbage, look for heads that are heavy for their size and, when cut, should have a bright, crisp look.

Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Soup Ingredients

Ground beef: This is the main source of protein in the soup. It adds a rich, meaty flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Kosher salt: Used to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the soup.

Butter: Used to sauté the onions and cabbage, adding a rich, creamy flavor.

Yellow onion: Adds a sweet, caramelized flavor to the soup.

Cabbage: This is the star of the dish, adding a unique flavor and texture.

Tomatoes: Adds a tangy sweetness that balances out the richness of the beef.

Beef broth: This forms the base of the soup, adding flavor and depth.

Rice: Adds texture and makes the soup more filling.

One reader, Hilly Wiley says:

This hearty stuffed cabbage soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the combination of beef, cabbage, and tomatoes creates a delicious and satisfying meal. It's easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. I highly recommend trying it!

Hilly Wiley

Techniques Required for Making Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Soup

How to brown ground beef: In a large Dutch oven, add the ground beef, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it is well browned. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside.

How to caramelize onions and cabbage: In the same Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cabbage, and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to caramelize.

How to simmer soup: After adding the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

How to incorporate cooked rice into soup: Stir in the cooked rice and continue to cook the soup until the rice is warmed through.

How to serve: Ladle the hearty stuffed cabbage soup into bowls and serve hot.

How To Make Stuffed Cabbage Soup

This recipe for cabbage soup takes some flavor inspirations from stuffed cabbage. It has ground beef and rice stewed in a tomato-based sauce.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbground beef,
1tspkosher salt
½tspblack pepper,coarse ground
6tbspbutter,divided
1yellow onion,chopped
1cabbage head,chopped roughly
14oztomatoes,diced
14oztomatoes,crushed
3cupsbeef broth
3cupsrice,cooked

Instructions

Add the ground beef to a large dutch oven with the salt and pepper and brown it really well then remove it from the pot and add in 4 tablespoons of butter, onions and cabbage. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until they start to caramelize.
Add in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and the cooked beef and let simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
Stir in the cooked rice and cook until it’s warmed through. Serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 549.67kcal
Fat: 20.82g
Saturated Fat: 9.99g
Trans Fat: 1.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.48g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.84g
Carbohydrates: 71.45g
Fiber: 4.48g
Sugar: 7.58g
Protein: 19.02g
Cholesterol: 63.15mg
Sodium: 479.76mg
Calcium: 88.65mg
Potassium: 847.93mg
Iron: 2.81mg
Vitamin A: 122.79µg
Vitamin C: 58.34mg

Technique Tip for Preparing Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Soup

When browning the ground beef, make sure to break it up into small pieces to ensure even cooking. Also, don't rush the caramelization process of the onions and cabbage. This step is crucial as it brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, adding depth of flavor to the soup.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Soup Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be made in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.

Batch cooking: Make a large quantity of the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals later.

Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate utensils, ingredients, and cookware while preparing the recipe.

Efficient multitasking: Plan and execute tasks simultaneously, such as chopping vegetables while the meat is browning, to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe

ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef. It also has a similar texture and flavor, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter. It adds a rich flavor and can be used to sauté ingredients without the need for butter.
rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a nutritious and protein-rich alternative to rice. It adds a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture, enhancing the overall nutritional value of the dish.
beef broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian-friendly alternative to beef broth. It adds depth of flavor and works well with the other ingredients in the recipe.
cabbage head - Substitute with Swiss chard: Swiss chard can be used as a substitute for cabbage, providing a similar texture and earthy flavor to the dish. It's a great way to add variety to the recipe while still maintaining a hearty and satisfying soup.

Best Way to Present Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Elevate the plating: When presenting the hearty stuffed cabbage soup, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the layers of cabbage, beef, and rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the presentation, such as a small cluster of crispy fried cabbage leaves or a delicate rice cracker placed on top of the soup. This will provide a delightful contrast in texture and elevate the overall dining experience.
Highlight the ingredients: Showcase the key components of the dish by arranging them thoughtfully in the bowl. Place a few tender cabbage leaves on one side, allowing the rich, tomato-based broth to surround them. This will draw attention to the wholesome and hearty nature of the soup.
Artful drizzling: Before serving, drizzle a swirl of high-quality olive oil over the soup. This not only adds a touch of richness but also creates an artistic element, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the rim of the bowl, ensuring it is clean and free of any spills or smudges. Presentation is about the overall experience, and a well-maintained presentation vessel is crucial in achieving a professional and polished look.

Essential Tools for Making Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Dutch oven: A heavy-duty pot with a tight-fitting lid, ideal for slow cooking and simmering soups and stews.
Butter: A dairy product used for sautéing, flavoring, and adding richness to dishes.
Knife: Essential for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Saucepan: A versatile cooking vessel used for heating liquids, making sauces, and cooking grains.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurement of ingredients.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and mixing ingredients in a non-stick pot or pan.
Cooking pot: Used for boiling, simmering, and cooking various components of the dish.
Strainer: For draining and rinsing ingredients such as rice.
Soup ladle: A deep-bowled spoon used for serving soups and stews.
Stove: For cooking and heating the ingredients.
Oven: Used for various cooking methods such as roasting or baking.

How To Store and Freeze Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Let the hearty stuffed cabbage soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. If using a bag, make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and the name of the soup for easy identification.
If storing in the refrigerator, the soup will keep for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat until it's heated through, stirring occasionally.
If freezing, the soup will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months. To thaw, place the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat until it's heated through, stirring occasionally.
Note: The rice in the soup may absorb more liquid and become softer after freezing and reheating. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can store the rice separately and add it to the soup when reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Reheat the hearty stuffed cabbage soup in a pot on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. This method allows the flavors to meld together and ensures even heating throughout the soup.
If you're short on time, you can reheat individual portions of the soup in the microwave. Place the desired amount in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through.
For a crispy twist, reheat the soup in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. In the last 5 minutes of reheating, remove the cover and sprinkle some shredded cheese or breadcrumbs on top for a delightful, crunchy texture.
If you have leftover rice, store it separately from the soup. When reheating, add the rice to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
To maintain the best texture of the cabbage and other vegetables, avoid reheating the soup for too long or at too high a temperature, as this can cause the vegetables to become overcooked and soggy.

Random Fact About Stuffed Cabbage Soup

The hearty stuffed cabbage soup recipe is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for cold weather. It combines the flavors of ground beef, cabbage, and tomatoes, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. This dish is a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome option for a family dinner. It's also a versatile recipe that can be easily customized with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. Enjoying this soup can provide a warm and comforting experience, making it a popular choice for many households during the winter months.

Is Making Stuffed Cabbage Soup at Home Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this hearty stuffed cabbage soup recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as ground beef, cabbage, and rice, are generally affordable and readily available. The dish provides a hearty and satisfying meal for a family of four. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is This Hearty Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The hearty stuffed cabbage soup recipe, while comforting and flavorful, may not be the healthiest choice due to a few factors:

High saturated fat content from the ground beef and butter
Lack of diverse vegetables, focusing mainly on cabbage and tomatoes
Refined carbohydrates from the white rice

However, this recipe can be easily modified to make it a more nutritious and well-rounded meal.

Here are some suggestions to boost the health factor of this stuffed cabbage soup:

Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce saturated fat
Use olive oil instead of butter to add healthy monounsaturated fats
Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers to increase fiber and nutrient density
Swap white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or barley to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates
Consider adding herbs and spices like garlic, thyme, and paprika for extra flavor without additional calories
Reduce the amount of added salt and let the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through

By making these simple adjustments, you can transform this hearty soup into a more balanced and nourishing meal that still satisfies your cravings for comfort food.

Editor's Thoughts on This Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe

This hearty stuffed cabbage soup recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish. The combination of ground beef, cabbage, and tomatoes creates a rich and flavorful base, while the addition of rice adds a hearty element. The use of butter and onions adds a depth of flavor, and the beef broth ties everything together beautifully. The dish is simple to prepare and perfect for a cozy family meal. The flavors meld together wonderfully, creating a delicious and nourishing soup that will warm both body and soul.

Enhance Your Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a savory garlic and parmesan topping.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey and infused with aromatic thyme for a delightful side dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Chives: Smooth and creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of freshness from chopped chives for a comforting accompaniment to the hearty stuffed cabbage soup.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Savory Beef and Vegetable Stew: This hearty stew is packed with tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and celery in a rich and flavorful broth.

Zesty Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: Juicy and tender roasted chicken marinated in a zesty lemon garlic sauce, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in this creamy and flavorful risotto made with Arborio rice, mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese for a luxurious and comforting dish.

Apple Cinnamon Crisp: Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples and cinnamon topped with a crispy oat and brown sugar crumble, perfect for dessert or a sweet treat.

Spicy Thai Coconut Curry Soup: Experience the bold and aromatic flavors of Thai cuisine with this spicy coconut curry soup filled with vegetables, tofu, and fragrant herbs and spices.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Stuffed Cabbage Soup

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are a delightful combination of earthy mushrooms, flavorful sausage, and creamy cheese. They are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal or gathering.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: These crispy zucchini fritters are a delicious way to enjoy the abundance of summer zucchini. The crispy exterior gives way to a tender, flavorful interior, making them a crowd-pleasing appetizer for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of apple crisp, with tender baked apples, a crispy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Why trust this Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe:

This hearty stuffed cabbage soup recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the richness of ground beef with the sweetness of caramelized onions and tender cabbage. The addition of tomatoes and savory beef broth enhances the depth of flavor, while the inclusion of rice adds a satisfying heartiness. Trust in the balance of ingredients and the cooking process to deliver a soul-warming soup that will surely become a family favorite.

Want to share your own twist on this Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover hearty stuffed cabbage soup?

The best way to store leftover hearty stuffed cabbage soup is to let it cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water to adjust the consistency.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe. It will give the soup a lighter flavor while still providing a hearty and satisfying meal.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Can I use a different type of rice in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use different types of rice such as brown rice, wild rice, or even quinoa for a healthier option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of rice you choose.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a meat-free version.