Cabbage Meatball Soup Recipe

Introduction

This Cabbage Meatball Soup is a comforting and hearty meal that’s easy to prepare on busy days. Combining tender meatballs with fresh vegetables and flavorful broth, it’s perfect for warming up any evening.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 6 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 4 cups chopped green cabbage (about ¼ medium head)
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with chilies (such as Rotel, with juices)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (more to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 16 to 20 ounces frozen meatballs (or cooked homemade meatballs)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. Stir in the flour and oregano, cooking for another minute to combine flavors.
2. Step 2: Pour in the broth, then add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes with their juices, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Add the frozen or cooked meatballs to the pot.
3. Step 3: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. Remove the lid and continue to simmer for 5 minutes more to slightly thicken the soup.
4. Step 4: Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tips & Variations

• Use homemade meatballs for a fresher taste, or substitute with turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat if you enjoy spicy soups.
• Swap green cabbage with savoy or napa cabbage for a different texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. This soup also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh or homemade meatballs work perfectly. Just add them to the soup and adjust cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the meatballs with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.