There’s something incredibly cozy about a bowl of hot, brothy soup after a long day—especially when it tastes like your favorite cabbage rolls but requires none of the effort.
This Cabbage Roll Soup with Chicken and Beef is my go-to when I want comfort food without stuffing and rolling individual cabbage leaves.
It’s rich in flavor, full of protein, and loaded with tender cabbage, warming spices, and satisfying bites of meat and tomato.
I love that it practically cooks itself in the slow cooker, and the toppings? Totally irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
All the flavor of cabbage rolls with zero rolling.
Two proteins in one pot—juicy chicken and savory beef meatballs.
Easy slow cooker meal that simmers while you relax.
Hearty, healthy, and satisfying for any season.
Family-friendly and great for meal prep.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Chicken stock – Forms a savory broth base.
Diced tomatoes – Adds richness and a tangy bite.
Chicken breasts – Cooked until tender and shredded.
Ground beef – Rolled into juicy mini meatballs.
Cabbage – Sliced into ribbons for heartiness.
Spices – A blend of cumin, paprika, onion, and garlic powder for deep flavor.
Toppings – Avocado, lime, sour cream, cheese, and cilantro take it over the top.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Form meatballs evenly – Use a tablespoon measure for uniform cooking.
Use pre-shredded cabbage – A great time-saver if you’re short on prep time.
Low & slow is best – For ultra-tender chicken and rich flavor.
Customize the heat – Add cayenne or hot sauce if you love spice.
Top right before serving – So your garnishes stay fresh and vibrant.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup with Chicken and Beef
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
Season the ground beef with half of the salt and pepper.
Roll into small 1-tablespoon-size meatballs.
Step 2: Prep the Cabbage
Slice half a head of cabbage into thin strips.
Step 3: Assemble the Soup
Add the chicken breasts, meatballs, diced tomatoes, cabbage, all seasonings, and chicken stock to your slow cooker.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and flavors meld.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts and shred using two forks.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
Ladle into bowls and add toppings: avocado, lime juice, cilantro, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
What to Serve It With
Warm tortillas or cornbread
Crusty baguette for dipping
Simple side salad
Roasted sweet potatoes
Rice or quinoa for extra bulk
Variations / Substitutions
Use turkey or pork – Swap ground beef or chicken for your preferred meat.
Make it spicy – Add jalapeño or chili powder to the broth.
Vegetarian version – Use veggie broth and plant-based meatballs.
No dairy? – Skip cheese and sour cream or sub with non-dairy alternatives.
Add grains – Stir in cooked rice or quinoa at the end for a heartier version.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer – Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat – On stovetop or microwave until hot, add a splash of broth if needed.
Toppings – Always add fresh after reheating for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just add it in during the last 30 minutes to warm through.
Do I need to brown the meatballs first?
Nope! They cook directly in the slow cooker and stay juicy.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes—use the “Soup” setting or cook on high pressure for about 25 minutes.
What if I don’t have cumin or paprika?
You can substitute with taco seasoning or Italian blend for a twist.
How can I make this lower in sodium?
Use low-sodium broth and reduce the added salt. Taste and adjust.
Is this soup keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low-carb and high in protein.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Just make sure your slow cooker can handle the volume.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Roll Soup with Chicken and Beef is comfort food at its best—rich, nourishing, and deeply satisfying without the hassle of traditional cabbage rolls.
The slow cooker does all the work, and every spoonful is loaded with flavor, protein, and cozy vibes.
Top it up with creamy avocado, melty cheese, or a squeeze of lime, and you’ve got a dinner worth repeating.
Cabbage Roll Soup with Chicken and Beef
Ingredients
Method
- Season ground beef with half the salt and pepper, then form into 1-tbsp-size meatballs.
- Slice cabbage into thin strips.
- Add chicken breasts, meatballs, diced tomatoes, cabbage, seasonings, and stock to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
- Remove chicken and shred with two forks.
- Return chicken to soup and stir to combine.
- Serve hot with toppings like avocado, lime, cilantro, sour cream, and cheese.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/cabbage-roll-soup-with-chicken-and-beef/
Notes
- Use bone‑in chicken breasts for a deeper flavor, or thighs for extra juiciness.
- Drain diced tomatoes well to avoid thinning the broth.
- If using a conventional pot, simmer gently for about 1.5–2 hours until cabbage is tender.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.