Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup
A comforting, deconstructed version of stuffed cabbage cooked effortlessly in a crockpot, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef can substitute turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
- 1 cup onion, chopped shallots work as a milder swap.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced fresh cloves are best for flavor.
- 1 medium green cabbage, roughly chopped Napa cabbage is a suitable alternative.
- 15 oz diced tomatoes (canned) use fresh tomatoes if they’re ripe and in season.
- 15 oz tomato sauce crushed tomatoes are a good substitute for chunkier texture.
- 4 cups beef broth use vegetable broth to make this vegetarian (with appropriate protein swaps).
- ½ cup uncooked long grain rice swap with quinoa or barley if you prefer.
- 1 tsp dried thyme Italian seasoning is an easy stand-in.
- 1 tsp paprika try smoked paprika or a pinch of mustard powder for a different kick.
- 1 leaf bay leaf discard before serving.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if there’s a lot.
- Stir in the chopped onion and garlic into the skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Transfer the browned beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, uncooked rice, thyme, paprika, and the bay leaf. Season lightly with salt and pepper (you can adjust later).
Cooking
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Cook until cabbage is tender and rice is cooked through.
- Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If the soup is too thick, thin with a splash of broth; if too thin, remove the lid and cook on HIGH 15–30 minutes to reduce.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish as desired.
Notes
For a sweeter finish, serve with warm cinnamon rolls. Best enjoyed topped with sour cream or Greek yogurt and paired with crusty bread or a simple salad. If wanting firmer rice, add it in the last 60–90 minutes or cook separately.