Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup

Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup: Hearty, Healthy, and Easy to Make

Are you searching for a comforting, nutritious, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week? Look no further! Our Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup combines the hearty flavors of traditional cabbage rolls with the convenience of a slow cooker, resulting in a meal that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to prepare. Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors, this soup is an excellent choice for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any time you crave a wholesome, warming dish.

Why Choose Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup?

In today’s fast-paced world, finding meals that are both nutritious and easy to prepare can be a challenge. This Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup stands out for several reasons:

  • Hearty and Filling: Combines lean ground beef, vegetables, and hearty cabbage for a satisfying meal.
  • Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from fresh vegetables and cabbage.
  • Convenient: Utilize your slow cooker to create a delicious meal with minimal hands-on time.
  • Versatile: Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences and ingredient availability.
  • Family-Friendly: Mild flavors and familiar ingredients make it a hit with both kids and adults.

Whether you’re aiming to maintain a balanced diet, seeking a comforting meal, or looking to simplify your cooking routine, this soup is an excellent choice.

Recipe Overview

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s get an overview of what to expect.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
  • Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes (on low) or 3 hours 20 minutes (on high)
  • Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients You’ll Need

Having all your ingredients ready is crucial for a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful soup:

Protein and Vegetables

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) tomato sauce
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups chopped cabbage
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cooked rice (optional for added texture)

Pantry Staples

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create a mouthwatering Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup.

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

  1. Heat a Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Onions and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  4. Drain Excess Fat: If necessary, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the soup lean.

2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Ingredients:

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) tomato sauce
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups chopped cabbage
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

  1. Transfer Beef Mixture: Place the browned ground beef mixture into the slow cooker.
  2. Add Vegetables and Liquids: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth to the slow cooker.
  3. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and diced bell pepper.
  4. Season the Soup: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce.
  5. Optional Rice: If using, add the cooked rice for added texture and heartiness.

3. Cook the Soup

Instructions:

  1. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
  2. Stir Occasionally: If possible, stir the soup occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
  3. Check for Tenderness: The vegetables should be tender, and the flavors should be well-blended.

4. Taste and Adjust Seasonings

Instructions:

  1. Taste the Soup: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
  2. Add Fresh Herbs: For a burst of freshness, consider stirring in some freshly chopped parsley just before serving.

5. Serve and Garnish

Instructions:

  1. Ladle the Soup: Serve the cabbage roll soup hot in bowls.
  2. Garnish: Top with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.
  3. Optional Extras: For added richness, you can drizzle a bit of olive oil or add a dollop of sour cream.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Crusty bread for serving

Nutritional Benefits

Understanding the nutritional value of your meals can help you make informed dietary choices. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits this soup offers:

1. High in Protein

  • Lean Ground Beef: A great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Cabbage: Provides additional protein along with fiber, supporting digestive health.

2. Loaded with Vegetables

  • Cabbage: Low in calories but high in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
  • Carrots and Celery: Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and essential minerals.
  • Bell Peppers: Packed with vitamins C and B6, antioxidants, and fiber.

3. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

  • Tomatoes: High in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant linked to many health benefits.
  • Onions and Garlic: Contain compounds that support immune health and have anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Low in Carbohydrates

  • Balanced Ingredients: With plenty of vegetables and lean protein, this soup offers a balanced macronutrient profile that’s low in refined carbohydrates.

5. Heart-Healthy Fats

  • Olive Oil and Lean Meat: Provide healthy fats that support heart health without excessive saturated fat.

6. Hydration

  • Broth-Based: The high water content in the soup helps keep you hydrated, especially on warmer days or after a workout.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used as substitutes for beef to suit your dietary preferences or needs.

Q2: How can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

To make a vegetarian or vegan version, substitute the ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or a plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and ensure that all seasonings are plant-based.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Yes! Feel free to customize the soup by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes to enhance the nutritional profile and flavor.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Q5: Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store it in freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Final Thoughts

The Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients, comforting flavors, and the convenience of modern cooking appliances. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this soup is designed to be straightforward and satisfying, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Benefits at a Glance:

•Nutritious and Balanced: High in protein and loaded with vegetables.

•Delicious and Satisfying: Rich flavors with tender cabbage and hearty beef.

•Flexible and Customizable: Easily adapt to dietary needs and ingredient preferences.

•Convenient and Time-Saving: Minimal hands-on time with the slow cooker doing most of the work.

•Family-Friendly: Mild flavors and familiar ingredients make it a hit with both kids and adults.

Ready to Get Cooking?

Don’t wait any longer to bring this delectable soup to your table. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a hearty meal for guests, this Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

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