The comforting aroma of simmering beef and tomatoes wafts through your kitchen as you prepare this hearty Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup. Imagine a cold winter evening where each bowl brings warmth, filled with tender cabbage, juicy beef, and perfectly cooked rice nestled in a thick, rich broth. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes and cabbage shine through, creating a visual delight that instantly makes you feel cozy. Reminiscing about my grandmother’s kitchen, where many meals were crafted with love, brings a smile to my face. Just like her cabbage rolls, this soup delivers all the flavor but with none of the fuss. Perfect for those busy days when you still crave homemade comfort, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s whip up a batch of this delightful soup!

Table of Contents

Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup

Why settle for bland when you can have a soup bursting with flavor? This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup is everything you need to get through those chilly months. You’ll love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a warm hug in a bowl.

Simple & Quick: Prep takes just 20 minutes, then let the slow cooker do the work!
Irresistible Flavor: Each spoonful is brimming with hearty beef, sweet tomato, and tender cabbage.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Warm, inviting colors make it a visual treat that brightens any dinner table.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep for a cozy lunch.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable to gluten-free or dairy-free diets without compromising taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound lean ground beef: This is the base of your soup, providing a savory, meaty flavor. You could substitute ground turkey or even lentils for a healthier twist.
1 small onion (diced): Adds a sweet, aromatic touch. Yellow onions work wonderfully, but shallots or leeks can add their unique flair.
4 cups chopped green cabbage (about ½ a head): Tender cabbage adds texture and heartiness. Savoy or Napa cabbage can also be used for a milder taste.
1 15-ounce can tomato sauce: This enhances the depth of flavor while making the soup rich and comforting.
1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes: Adds chunks of juicy tomato that burst with flavor. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes can give an extra smoky depth.
4 cups beef broth: Use homemade for the best flavor, or choose low-sodium broth to control the seasoning.
½ cup uncooked long-grain white rice: This absorbs the rich broth and expands for a filling texture, but brown rice offers a nuttier flavor.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the soup into a hearty consistency.
2 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes with a hint of sweetness.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the soup.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A convenient way to infuse garlic’s aromatic flavor throughout the soup.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat.
1 teaspoon paprika: Sweet or smoked paprika imparts a rich, alluring flavor.
½ teaspoon dried thyme: Herbaceous notes complement the beef and tangy tomatoes beautifully.
1 bay leaf: Adds an aromatic quality during cooking, enhancing the overall flavor.
Chopped parsley (for garnish): Fresh herbs add a pop of vibrant color and a hint of freshness just before serving.

How to Make Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup

Brown the Beef: Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat for a cleaner flavor. This step not only adds depth to the soup but also prevents any greasiness in your final dish.

Combine Ingredients: Place the browned beef into the slow cooker, then add the diced onion and chopped cabbage. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and uncooked rice. The rice will absorb all those wonderful flavors as it cooks! Blend everything well and ensure the cabbage is mostly submerged.

Mix in Flavorings: Stir in the tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and the bay leaf. Every ingredient contributes to the rich profile of your soup, making it impossible to resist!

Set the Slow Cooker: Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the cabbage is tender and everything melds into a thick, hearty soup that fills your home with enticing aromas.

Finish and Serve: Once cooking time is up, turn off the slow cooker and remove the bay leaf. Give your soup a quick taste; feel free to adjust the seasoning if needed—perhaps a bit more salt or a dash of pepper. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle chopped parsley on top, and get ready to enjoy!

Storing & Reheating

To store your Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup, let it cool down completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It can safely sit at room temperature for about two hours after cooking. In the fridge, it will last for about four days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until bubbly, typically 5 minutes for the microwave. Remember, the texture may subtly change, but refreshing it with a splash of broth can work wonders.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the cabbage; it should remain tender but not mushy for the best texture.
Make sure the rice is well mixed in; you want every bite to have that lovely, hearty feel.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra pop of flavor.
Use freshly chopped herbs as a garnish to bring brightness to the dish—parmesan cheese also pairs beautifully if you’re not going dairy-free.
Try adding other veggies like carrots or bell peppers for a colorful twist.
This soup is even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal!

This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup really captures the essence of cozy comfort. It’s rich, hearty, and full of delightful flavors, making it perfect for cold winter nights. I encourage you to experiment—maybe add a dash of spice or extra veggies to make it your own. Don’t forget to gather around the table and savor each spoonful with loved ones, because that’s what makes a meal special. Enjoy every moment!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors develop and deepen over time. You can prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Can I substitute the beef?

Certainly! Ground turkey or chicken are great options if you’re looking for a leaner meat. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or chickpeas, ensuring they’re properly cooked and added closer to the end of cooking time to avoid becoming mushy.

How do I enhance the flavor further?

Don’t hesitate to add more spices like Italian seasoning or a splash of red wine while it simmers. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can also lend a lovely fragrance and brightness to your dish right before serving.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

No worries! You can easily make this on the stovetop. Follow the same steps but use a large pot and simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally until the cabbage and rice are tender, keeping the lid on for moisture retention.