If you love traditional Golumpki (Polish stuffed cabbage rolls) but don’t have the time to roll each one individually, this Golumpki Soup is your new best friend! It captures all the rich, comforting flavors of the classic dish—tender cabbage, ground beef, rice, and a savory tomato broth—but in a simple, one-pot soup that’s easy to make and packed with hearty goodness.
This soup is perfect for cold nights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be customized to your taste. Let’s get cooking! And if you love cozy, easy soups, be sure to subscribe for more delicious recipes straight to your inbox.
Why This Golumpki Soup is a Comfort Food Favorite
There’s something truly special about the flavors of Golumpki (Polish stuffed cabbage rolls)—a dish that’s been passed down through generations in many families. The combination of savory beef, tender cabbage, and rich tomato broth creates a heartwarming meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. But let’s be honest—rolling and stuffing individual cabbage leaves can be time-consuming and tricky. That’s why this Golumpki Soup is such a lifesaver! It delivers all the authentic flavors of traditional Polish stuffed cabbage rolls in a fraction of the time. Plus, it’s made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Another reason to love this soup? It’s incredibly meal-prep friendly! The flavors actually get better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers or freezing for future meals. Whether you’re making a big batch for a cozy family dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy. It’s also easy to customize—use turkey for a lighter version, swap rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or spice it up with a dash of red pepper flakes. However you make it, this Golumpki Soup is sure to become a comforting go-to in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Golumpki Soup
- All the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls—without the extra work!
- One-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and clean up.
- Rich, hearty, and comforting, perfect for chilly days.
- Meal-prep friendly—tastes even better the next day!
- Easily customizable—use turkey, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
What Does Golumpki Soup Taste Like?
This soup has deep, savory flavors with a slight sweetness from the cabbage and tomato base. The ground beef adds richness, the rice makes it extra hearty, and the herbs and spices bring everything together. It’s a warm, comforting bowl of nostalgia, perfect for anyone who loves Polish cuisine or classic home-cooked meals.
Ingredients for Golumpki Soup
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground pork/turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chopped green cabbage
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (balances the acidity)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions
- Spicier version? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Lower-carb? Swap rice for cauliflower rice.
- Extra veggies? Add carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
- Thicker soup? Stir in a cornstarch slurry or mashed potatoes.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Sharp knife & cutting board
- Ladle for serving
How to Make Golumpki Soup
1. Brown the Meat
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add Cabbage & Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped cabbage, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
4. Pour in Broth & Rice
Add the beef broth, water, and uncooked rice. Toss in the bay leaf for extra flavor. Stir everything well.
5. Simmer to Perfection
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice and cabbage are tender.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot!
What to Serve with Golumpki Soup
This soup is filling on its own, but here are some great pairings:
- Crusty bread or rye bread – Perfect for dipping!
- Dollop of sour cream – Adds a creamy, tangy touch.
- Fresh parsley – For a pop of color and freshness.
- Grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese – A delicious extra layer of flavor.
Tips for the Best Golumpki Soup
- Use a mix of beef and pork for the most authentic Polish flavor.
- Don’t overcook the rice! If you plan to store leftovers, cook the rice separately and add it to each bowl to prevent mushiness.
- Make it ahead of time—the flavors deepen as it sits!
- For a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
How to Store & Freeze Golumpki Soup
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Let cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Just increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes, or use pre-cooked brown rice.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and onions first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and plant-based ground meat or extra beans for protein.
What if my soup is too thick?
Add extra broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Try This Golumpki Soup Today!
If you love stuffed cabbage but want an easier, cozier version, this Golumpki Soup is the perfect recipe for you. It’s warm, hearty, and packed with classic flavors—perfect for any night of the week.
If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest so you can make it again. Happy cooking! 🍲💕