Golumpki Soup (also known as stuffed cabbage soup) is a cozy, deconstructed version of traditional cabbage rolls. Inspired by the beloved Polish dish Gołąbki, this soup combines ground meat, tender cabbage, rice, and a rich tomato broth into one easy, satisfying meal.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want all the flavor of stuffed cabbage rolls without the extra work.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
All the Flavor, Less Effort
No rolling required—just simmer and enjoy.
Hearty & Filling
Loaded with meat, rice, and vegetables.
Comfort Food Classic
Warm, rich, and deeply satisfying.
Great for Meal Prep
Tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef (or beef/pork mix)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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4 cups green cabbage, chopped
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1 cup cooked rice (or ½ cup uncooked)
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4 cups beef broth
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2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for balance)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Meat
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart.
Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
3. Add Cabbage
Add chopped cabbage and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
4. Build the Soup
Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Stir well.
5. Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes.
Add cooked rice (or uncooked rice earlier in the simmering process).
6. Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add brown sugar if desired.
Serve hot.
Tips for the Best Golumpki Soup
Chop Cabbage Evenly
Ensures consistent texture.
Use Cooked Rice for Faster Cooking
Or let uncooked rice simmer longer.
Balance the Flavor
A touch of sugar enhances the tomato base.
Let It Rest
Flavors deepen after sitting.
Flavor Variations
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
Low-Carb Option
Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
Smoky Flavor
Add smoked paprika or bacon.
Vegetarian Version
Use beans and vegetable broth instead of meat.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Reheat on the stove, adding broth if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Golumpki Soup with:
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Crusty bread
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Mashed potatoes
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Side salad
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Sour cream (optional topping)
Final Thoughts
Golumpki Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that brings all the traditional flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls into a simple, one-pot meal. Inspired by Gołąbki, it’s perfect for cozy nights and easy family dinners.
Once you try this warm and satisfying soup, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.