Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup is a delightful twist on the classic stuffed cabbage rolls, bringing all the flavors together in a warm, comforting bowl. This scrumptious recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without the fuss of traditional cooking methods. With minimal prep time and effortless cooking, this soup will become a family favorite in no time.
Imagine coming home to a fragrant kitchen filled with the aroma of savory spices and tender vegetables, ready to be served. This delicious Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or preparing for meal prep, this recipe will surely impress everyone at your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup is not just another meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes your senses. First and foremost, it combines all the beloved flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling each individual cabbage leaf. The rich tomato base mingles beautifully with tender ground meat and fresh vegetables, creating a wholesome dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Moreover, this recipe is highly versatile and forgiving. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your family’s preferences. The convenience of cooking in a slow cooker means you can set it up in the morning and come home to a hot, delicious meal waiting for you. Finally, it’s an excellent option for meal prepping as it keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!
Key Ingredients
The key ingredients for this Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup are simple yet packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cabbage: The star of the dish adds texture and nutrients.
- Ground beef: Provides protein and heartiness to make the soup filling.
- Rice: Adds bulk; use white or brown rice based on preference.
- Canned tomatoes: Offers sweetness and acidity; diced or crushed works best.
- Onion: Enhances flavor with its natural sweetness when cooked.
- Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic qualities that elevate the dish.
- Bell peppers: Introduces color and crunch; any color works well.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth for added richness.
- Dried herbs: Oregano, thyme, and parsley bring out classic Italian flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Chop the cabbage, onion, bell peppers, and garlic into small pieces for even cooking.
- Sauté vegetables (optional): In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and garlic until translucent. This step enhances their flavors but can be skipped if desired.
- Add ingredients to the crockpot: Layer the chopped cabbage at the bottom of the crockpot followed by ground beef, sautéed onions (if used), bell peppers, rice, canned tomatoes (with juice), broth, and seasonings.
- Mix well: Stir everything together gently until combined; ensure that the rice is submerged in liquid for proper cooking.
- Cook on low: Cover with a lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until everything is tender.
- Serve warm: Once cooked, give it a good stir before serving; top with fresh parsley if desired!
Expert Tips
If you want to take your Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup to another level, consider using homemade broth. It adds depth of flavor that store-bought options often lack. Additionally, don’t skip browning the meat beforehand; this step enhances flavor through caramelization. For those who prefer extra spice, add crushed red pepper flakes, which can brighten up any bowl of soup. Lastly, feel free to freeze leftovers; they reheat wonderfully and maintain their deliciousness!
Presentation Ideas
This soup becomes even more appetizing when presented creatively! Serve it in rustic bowls topped with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of color. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess that complements the tangy tomato base beautifully. For an added crunch, sprinkle some crispy bacon bits or serve alongside crusty bread. Arranging slices of bread on a wooden board next to each bowl creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings!
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Certainly! To make this Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup vegetarian-friendly,. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth as well. Adding more veggies such as carrots or mushrooms can enhance flavor without sacrificing heartiness!
How do I store leftovers?
Your leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.If you want to store it longer than that, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers where they can last up to three months! Just remember to label them with dates so you’ll know when it was made.
Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup too watery — what should I do?
If your soup turns out too watery,. You could also thicken it by combining cornstarch with cold water then stirring into boiling soup until desired consistency is reached! Adjust seasonings accordingly after thickening as well!
I don’t have a slow cooker—can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
You absolutely can! To make this soup on stovetop,< strong simmers all ingredients together in pot over medium heat . Allow about 30-40 minutes total cooking time until cabbage is tender while stirring occasionally throughout cooking process!
Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves about 8
Description
Enjoy a hearty and comforting bowl of Crockpot Cabbage Roll Soup, a simplified version of the classic cabbage rolls, perfect for busy weeknights. This delicious soup combines tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and flavorful spices in a rich tomato base. With minimal prep and effortless cooking, it’s an ideal meal for the whole family that can also be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice (or white rice)
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping cabbage, onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
- Optionally sauté onions and garlic in a skillet until translucent.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the crockpot followed by ground beef, sautéed onions if used, bell peppers, rice, canned tomatoes (with juice), broth, oregano, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until everything is tender.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg