Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup

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There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of cabbage roll soup, especially when it’s made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This hearty and nutritious dish captures all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but in a simple, one-pot soup form. By using a slow cooker, you let the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a deeply satisfying meal without the hassle of rolling individual cabbage leaves.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making slow cooker cabbage roll soup, from ingredients and cooking steps to storage and serving suggestions.

What is Cabbage Roll Soup?

Cabbage roll soup is inspired by traditional cabbage rolls, a dish popular in Eastern European and Middle Eastern cuisines. Classic cabbage rolls involve filling boiled cabbage leaves with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and seasonings, then baking or simmering them in a tomato-based sauce.

The soup version simplifies the process by deconstructing the dish, allowing all the ingredients to cook together in a rich, flavorful broth. This means you get all the taste of cabbage rolls with a fraction of the effort!

Why Use a Slow Cooker?

Using a slow cooker to make cabbage roll soup has several advantages:

  • Hands-Off Cooking – Once you’ve prepped your ingredients, the slow cooker does the rest of the work.
  • Enhanced Flavor – Slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a deep, rich taste.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep – You can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
  • Great for Busy Schedules – Just set it in the morning, and come home to a delicious meal.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup

Essential Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano

Optional Additions

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for a deeper umami flavor)
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (adds sweetness and texture)
  • 1 carrot, diced (for a hint of natural sweetness)
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepping the Ingredients

Start by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and prepare any optional vegetables. If you’re using ground beef or turkey, break it up into small pieces to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Sautéing for Enhanced Flavor (Optional)

For a deeper, richer taste, sauté the ground beef and onion in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker. This helps to brown the meat and develop extra flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and add everything directly to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Assembling the Soup in the Slow Cooker

Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker, starting with the cabbage, ground meat, and rice. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together and add your seasonings.

Step 4: Cooking Time and Temperature Settings

  • Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  • Stir occasionally if possible, but it’s not necessary.

Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving

Once the soup is cooked, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If it’s too thick, add extra broth. Garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.

Tips for the Best Cabbage Roll Soup

  • Use fresh cabbage for the best texture.
  • If you prefer a thicker soup, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
  • For a lower-carb version, replace rice with cauliflower rice.

Serving Suggestions

Cabbage roll soup pairs well with:

  • Crusty bread or garlic toast
  • A side salad with a light vinaigrette
  • A dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top

How to Store and Reheat

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
  • Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Slow cooker cabbage roll soup is a delicious, hearty, and easy-to-make meal that captures all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the extra work. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or simply enjoying a warm, comforting dish.

FAQs

  1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
    Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe.

  2. What is the best type of cabbage for this soup?
    Green cabbage is the best choice, but savoy cabbage also works.

  3. Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot instead?
    Yes! Use the sauté function for the meat and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.

  4. How long does cabbage roll soup last in the fridge?
    It stays fresh for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

  5. Can I add rice directly to the slow cooker?
    Yes, but it’s best added in the last 2 hours to prevent overcooking.