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Cabbage Meatball Soup Recipe

4.9 from 129 reviews

This hearty Cabbage Meatball Soup combines tender meatballs with nutritious vegetables and a flavorful broth, creating a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any day. The cabbage adds a slight sweetness and texture while the seasoned broth ties all the ingredients together in a warm, delicious soup.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 ribs celery, chopped
  • 4 cups chopped green cabbage (about ¼ medium head)

Broth and Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 6 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with chilies (such as Rotel, with juices)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (more to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Protein

  • 16 to 20 ounces frozen meatballs (or cooked homemade meatballs)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrot, and celery. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the all-purpose flour and dried oregano, cooking for an additional minute to develop flavor and slightly thicken the base.
  2. Add liquids and vegetables. Pour in the beef or chicken broth, then add the chopped cabbage and the can of diced tomatoes with chilies, including the juices. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Incorporate meatballs and simmer. Gently stir in the frozen meatballs to submerge them in the soup. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 20 to 25 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the meatballs are heated through.
  4. Final simmer and rest. Uncover the pot and simmer the soup uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to slightly reduce the broth and deepen flavors. Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • You can use either frozen store-bought meatballs or homemade cooked meatballs based on your preference.
  • Adjust salt and pepper according to taste.
  • For a spicier kick, choose diced tomatoes with chilies or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
  • This soup can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
  • For gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Keywords: cabbage soup, meatball soup, hearty soup, easy dinner, comfort food, cabbage recipe, one pot meal