Deliciously Hearty Tomato Soup Cabbage Rolls A Family Favorite Recipe

These Tomato Soup Cabbage Rolls are warm, hearty, and full of classic comfort. Tender cabbage leaves wrap a simple meat and rice filling, then bake in a sweet-tangy tomato soup sauce until everything melts together. The flavor is cozy and familiar, and the steps are easy enough for a weeknight. You can bake, simmer on the stove, or use a slow cooker. This dish also reheats and freezes well, so it’s great for meal prep or sharing with family.

Why Make Tomato Soup Cabbage Rolls

Tomato Soup Cabbage Rolls are a home-style favorite with simple ingredients and big payoff. The cabbage turns soft and silky as it cooks. The filling stays juicy and satisfying. The tomato soup sauce gives a mild, smooth flavor that kids and adults both enjoy. You can make this dish in fall and winter when you crave something warm, or in any season when cabbage is fresh and affordable.

This recipe is budget-friendly and flexible. Use ground beef, pork, turkey, or a mix. Add more vegetables to the filling, or keep it classic. The steps are straightforward, and you can prepare parts ahead of time. It also feeds a crowd without much fuss. If you want a main dish that is simple, comforting, and easy to customize, these cabbage rolls deliver. They are perfect for Sunday dinner, meal prep, or a cozy night in, and they taste even better the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Soup Cabbage Rolls

Cozy Flavor with Everyday Ingredients

• Uses common pantry items like rice, onion, and canned tomato soup.
• Mild, smooth sauce that pleases picky eaters.
• Comforting and filling without being heavy.

Quick to Make, Easy to Love

• Simple method with clear steps.
• Works in the oven, on the stove, or in a slow cooker.
• Great make-ahead and freezer-friendly meal.

Ingredients and Substitutions

What You’ll Need for This Recipe

• 1 large head green cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef (or half beef, half pork or turkey)
• 1 cup cooked white rice (cooled)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

Sauce:

• 2 cans condensed tomato soup (10.5–10.75 oz each)
• 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz) or crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup water or beef broth
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf (optional)

Smart Swaps for Dietary Needs

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free Worcestershire or skip it. Check labels on soup.
• Dairy-free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free (check soup label).
• Low-carb: Swap rice with riced cauliflower (lightly sautéed and cooled).
• Vegetarian: Use cooked lentils or a mix of mushrooms and rice instead of meat.

Smart Variation (Optional)

• Smoky style: Add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the filling.
• Herb-forward: Add dill and extra parsley to the filling and sauce.

How to Make Tomato Soup Cabbage Rolls

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the cabbage: Core the cabbage. Boil a large pot of water. Add the whole head and simmer 8–10 minutes, peeling off leaves as they soften. Drain and cool. Trim thick ribs flat with a knife.
2. Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley.
3. Make the sauce: In another bowl, whisk tomato soup, tomato sauce, water/broth, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire, and bay leaf.
4. Fill and roll: Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the base of each cabbage leaf. Fold sides over and roll up tight.
5. Pan setup: Spread a thin layer of sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish or Dutch oven. Arrange rolls seam-side down. Pour remaining sauce over the top.
6. Bake: Cover tightly with foil or a lid and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 60–90 minutes, until the cabbage is very tender and the filling reaches 165°F.
   • Stovetop: Simmer covered on low for 60–75 minutes.
   • Slow cooker: Cook on Low 6–7 hours or High 3–4 hours.

Tips for Texture, Timing & Tools

• Soften leaves well so they roll without tearing. Re-dip stiff leaves in hot water if needed.
• Trim thick ribs so rolls sit flat and cook evenly.
• Pack rolls snugly to keep them from opening while cooking.
• Taste and adjust sauce before baking add a pinch of salt, sugar, or vinegar to balance.
• Use a Dutch oven for even heat and easy cleanup.

Storage & Reheating

How to Store It Right

• Cool rolls fully. Refrigerate in an airtight container with sauce for up to 4 days.
• Freeze in portions with sauce for up to 3 months. Wrap well to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Without Losing Flavor

• Oven: Cover and warm at 325°F (165°C) for 20–30 minutes, until hot.
• Stovetop: Simmer gently in sauce over low heat 10–15 minutes.
• Microwave: Reheat on medium power in 1–2 minute bursts, spooning sauce over the rolls.

A Dish Worth Making Again and Again

These rolls taste better the next day as the flavors blend. Make a double batch and freeze some for busy nights. Serve with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

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FAQs

Can I use uncooked rice in the filling?

Yes, but add 1/4 cup extra liquid to the sauce and cook longer. Using cooked rice gives more even results and faster cooking.

How do I keep the rolls from falling apart?

Soften leaves well, trim thick ribs, roll tightly, and place seam-side down. Pack rolls snugly in the pan and cover during cooking.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes. Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Add 10–15 minutes to the baking time. You can also freeze unbaked rolls for up to 3 months.

What cabbage works best?

Green cabbage is classic. Savoy also works and is easier to roll. Napa is too tender and may tear or turn mushy.

Final Thoughts

Tomato Soup Cabbage Rolls are simple, cozy, and reliable. With easy steps and a gentle sauce, they fit any night of the week and make great leftovers. Customize the filling, choose your cooking method, and enjoy a warm plate of comfort every time.

Need another way to enjoy high-protein meals without relying on meat? Our Recipes is a flavorful, filling dinner that fits the bill beautifully.

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