Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup

Name: Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 255 min
Ingredients: 1 head cabbage; 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb Italian sausage; 1 onion; 3 cloves garlic; 1 small can tomato paste; 1 large can tomato sauce; 4 cups beef bone broth; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 cup instant rice; sour cream

If you love classic cabbage rolls but don’t feel like rolling and stuffing cabbage all night, this Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup gives you all those same comforting flavors in a much easier way.

The combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, cabbage, and tomato creates a rich and hearty soup that tastes like it simmered all day. As the cabbage cooks down, it becomes tender and soaks up all the savory flavor from the broth and seasonings.

The rice thickens everything slightly and makes the soup extra filling, while the sour cream on top adds the perfect creamy finish to balance the tomato base.

This is one of those cozy, satisfying meals that tastes homemade in the best possible way and gets even better the next day.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All the flavor of cabbage rolls without the extra work.
Rich, hearty, and filling comfort food.
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
Easy crockpot recipe with simple ingredients.
Packed with beefy tomato flavor.

Ingredients

This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a rich and hearty cabbage roll-inspired soup. The beef and sausage bring deep savory flavor, while the cabbage softens as it slowly cooks in the tomato-based broth.

The instant rice helps thicken the soup slightly and makes it more filling. Topping each bowl with sour cream adds a creamy contrast that pairs perfectly with the rich tomato broth.

1 head cabbage, washed and chopped
1 lb ground beef
1 lb Italian sausage
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small can tomato paste
1 large can tomato sauce
4 cups Kettle & Fire beef bone broth
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 cup instant rice
Sour cream, for serving

How To Make Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup

Step 1: Add Cabbage

Add the chopped cabbage to the crockpot.

Step 2: Brown Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Add Meat

Add the cooked meat to the crockpot.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Tomato

Add the diced onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, and tomato sauce.

Step 5: Add Broth

Pour in the beef bone broth.

Step 6: Season

Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

Step 7: Mix

Mix everything together well.

Step 8: Cook

Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 1/2 hours.

Step 9: Add Rice

Stir in the instant rice and cook for an additional 45 minutes.

Step 10: Serve

Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on top.

Recipe Variations

Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
Add diced carrots for extra vegetables.
Use spicy Italian sausage for more heat.
Add extra cabbage for a thicker soup.
Top with shredded cheese before serving.

Tips for Success

Brown the meat well for deeper flavor.
Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces for easier eating.
Add extra broth if you prefer a thinner soup.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Let the soup sit for a few minutes after adding rice to thicken.
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use only ground beef instead of sausage?

Yes, you can absolutely use only ground beef if you prefer. The Italian sausage adds extra flavor and richness to the soup, but the recipe still turns out delicious with just beef. If you skip the sausage, you may want to add a little extra Italian seasoning or garlic for more depth of flavor.

Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?

Yes, but regular rice will take much longer to cook and may absorb more liquid from the soup. If using uncooked regular rice, add extra broth as needed and allow additional cooking time until the rice becomes tender.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

This soup is actually even better the next day because the flavors continue to develop as it sits. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze cabbage roll soup?

Yes, this soup freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that the rice may soften slightly after reheating, but the flavor will still be excellent.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad. The sour cream topping also adds a creamy balance that works really well with the rich tomato broth and savory meat.