You ever wake up after a night out thinking, “Never again…”? Well, ancient Romans had a solution—they swore that eating raw cabbage before drinking would magically prevent hangovers. Imagine getting ready for a party and instead of a cocktail, your friend hands you a big ol’ bowl of cabbage like, “Trust me, it works!” Yeah… I think I’ll take my chances.
From Hangover Cure to High-Protein Powerhouse
Fast forward a few centuries, and cabbage finally found its true calling—not as a weird pre-game snack, but as the star of the most comforting, high-protein soup ever! No more choking down raw leaves—this High-Protein Stuffed Cabbage Soup is hearty, filling, and actually good for you! Packed with lean protein, fiber, and all the good stuff to keep you full without the guilt.
One Thing Hasn’t Changed… It’s Still a Lifesaver!
And let’s be real… meal planning is a struggle. That “What’s for dinner?” moment hits hard, and suddenly, your fridge is just mocking you.But this soup? It’s the answer. Cozy, satisfying, easy to prep, and best of all—no rolling cabbage leaves required! So yeah… cabbage might not cure hangovers, but at least it’ll save your dinner (and your sanity)!
This High-Protein Stuffed Cabbage Soup is everything you love about classic stuffed cabbage rolls but in an easy, one-pot meal that’s packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavors. Here’s why you’ll love it:
High-Protein & Satisfying – Each serving is packed with 27g of protein, keeping you full for hours! Meal-Prep & Freezer-Friendly – This soup tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully for easy future meals. Rich, Smoky & Savory Flavor – Thanks to the smoked paprika, cayenne, and slow-simmered tomato broth, every bite is packed with warmth and depth. Gluten-Free & Easily Customizable – Swap brown rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or use ground turkey for a lighter twist! No Rolling, No Fuss! – Forget rolling cabbage leaves—just chop, simmer, and enjoy the same flavors in half the time.
Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you need a big, cozy bowl of comfort food—without any guilt! Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this High-Protein Stuffed Cabbage Soup:
Protein & Base:
Lean ground beef
Canola oil
Vegetables:
Green cabbage
Yellow onion
Carrots
Celery
Seasoning & Flavor:
Light brown sugar
Smoked paprika
Salt
Ground black pepper
Cayenne pepper (optional)
Broth & Grains:
No-salt-added tomato sauce
Unsalted chicken broth
Medium-grain brown rice
For Garnish (Optional):
Fresh flat-leaf parsley
How to Make Our High-Protein Stuffed Cabbage Soup
Making this High-Protein Stuffed Cabbage Soup is a breeze! Here’s an overview:
Cook the Beef: Sauté the lean ground beef in a large pot until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté the Veggies: Add chopped cabbage, onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until they soften.
Add Spices & Broth: Stir in brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Pour in the tomato sauce and broth, scraping the pot to deglaze.
Simmer with Rice: Bring the soup to a boil, add the brown rice, then cover and simmer until the rice is tender.
Serve & Enjoy: Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage Tips
Fridge-Friendly: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days… and trust me, the flavors get even better as it sits!
Freezer-Perfect: This soup freezes like a dream! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, let it cool completely, and freeze for up to 3 months. (Pro tip: Leave some room at the top for expansion!)
Reheat Like a Pro:
Stovetop: Heat over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Microwave: Warm in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between… no one likes unevenly heated soup!
Meal Prep Magic: Make a double batch, freeze half, and you’ll always have a hearty, protein-packed meal ready to go. Win-win!
Serving Tips
Classic Combo: Pair it with crusty whole-wheat bread or garlic toast for a satisfying meal.
Light & Fresh: Serve with a side salad—something crisp like a cucumber & tomato salad balances the warmth of the soup.
Creamy Touch: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt (a sneaky way to add even more protein!).
Extra Spice? Yes, Please! Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce if you like it fiery.
Low-Carb Hack: Skip the brown rice and stir in cauliflower rice in the last 5 minutes for a keto-friendly stuffed cabbage soup!
No matter how you serve it… this soup is comfort in a bowl. Dig in and enjoy!
Tips & FAQs
How do you make stuffed cabbage soup?
Making High-Protein Stuffed Cabbage Soup is easy and packed with all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls—without the rolling! Here’s a quick step-by-step:
Sauté the Aromatics & Protein – Cook diced onions and garlic in a large pot, then brown lean ground beef. Add Veggies – Stir in chopped cabbage, carrots, and celery for a nutrient boost. Season & Pour in Liquids – Add beef broth, crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and a touch of brown sugar. Simmer with Grains – Stir in brown rice (or a low-carb alternative like cauliflower rice) and let it cook until tender. Serve & Enjoy! – Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Why do you lose weight on the cabbage soup diet?
The Cabbage Soup Diet is a low-calorie, high-fiber meal plan designed for rapid weight loss. But here’s the reality:
It’s Low in Calories – Eating mainly cabbage soup means you consume fewer calories than usual, leading to quick weight loss. Mostly Water Weight Loss – The initial drop on the scale is water weight, not necessarily fat loss. Lacks Nutrients – It’s not a long-term weight loss solution because it lacks protein, healthy fats, and other essential nutrients. Not Sustainable – Once normal eating resumes, the weight is often gained back.
How healthy is cabbage soup for you?
Cabbage soup can be extremely healthy when prepared with the right ingredients! Here’s why:
Low in Calories, High in Fiber – Great for digestion and keeping you full longer. Rich in Vitamins – Cabbage is loaded with vitamin C, K, and antioxidants for immune support. Supports Weight Loss – A great low-calorie meal when part of a balanced diet. Can Lack Protein – To make it nutritionally complete, add lean ground beef, turkey, or beans.
High-Protein Stuffed Cabbage Soup is healthy as part of a balanced diet, but don’t rely on it alone for weight loss.
Does cabbage burn belly fat?
Cabbage does not directly burn belly fat—sorry to break the myth! But it can help with weight loss in the following ways:
Low in Calories, High in Fiber – Keeps you full, reducing unnecessary snacking. Hydrating & Nutrient-Dense – Supports overall gut health and digestion. Aids in Weight Management – Eating low-calorie, high-fiber foods like cabbage supports fat loss over time. No Spot Reduction – Losing belly fat requires a calorie deficit, strength training, and cardio—not just cabbage!
Health Benefits of High-Protein Stuffed Cabbage Soup
This High-Protein Stuffed Cabbage Soup isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutritional benefits that support weight loss, muscle growth, gut health, and overall well-being. From lean protein to fiber-rich cabbage, every spoonful delivers essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep you feeling full and energized.
Let’s dive into the top health benefits of adding this powerhouse soup to your meal plan!
1. High in Protein for Muscle Growth & Satiety
Supports Muscle Maintenance & Growth – With 27g of protein per serving, this soup fuels your muscles, making it an excellent meal for athletes, gym-goers, and anyone looking to maintain lean body mass.
Keeps You Full for Longer – Protein slows digestion and reduces hunger cravings, helping you stay satisfied between meals. No more mindless snacking!
Weight Loss-Friendly – High-protein meals help preserve lean muscle while promoting fat loss, making this soup perfect for calorie-conscious eaters.
2. Rich in Fiber for Digestion & Gut Health
Cabbage = Gut Health Superfood! – Cabbage is loaded with fiber, which helps regulate digestion, prevent constipation, and support a healthy gut microbiome.
Aids in Weight Loss – Fiber slows down digestion, keeping you fuller for longer and reducing overall calorie intake.
Balances Blood Sugar Levels – A fiber-rich meal like this prevents spikes and crashes, making it great for those managing blood sugar levels or insulin resistance.
3. Packed with Antioxidants & Immune-Boosting Nutrients
Cabbage = Vitamin C Powerhouse – Just one serving of this soup provides a big dose of vitamin C, supporting immune function, skin health, and collagen production.
Fights Inflammation – Cabbage contains glucosinolates and polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
Rich in Vitamin K – Supports bone health, blood clotting, and brain function.
Smoky Spices = Extra Benefits! – Ingredients like smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne add anti-inflammatory, metabolism-boosting, and digestion-supporting properties.
4. Low in Calories, Perfect for Weight Management
A Hearty Meal Under 350 Calories! – Unlike creamy soups, this broth-based dish delivers big flavor without excess calories.
Nutrient-Dense, Not Calorie-Dense – Every bite is packed with lean protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals—without the empty calories.
Perfect for WW & Low-Carb Diets – Swap the brown rice for cauliflower rice to make it a low-carb, keto-friendly stuffed cabbage soup!
5. Heart-Healthy & Naturally Gluten-Free
Low in Saturated Fat – Using lean ground beef or turkey keeps it heart-healthy. Opt for extra-lean meat for even lower fat!
Naturally Gluten-Free & Gut-Friendly – No wheat, no problem! This soup is safe for gluten-sensitive individuals while being gentle on digestion.
Balances Cholesterol – The fiber in cabbage helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, supporting long-term heart health.
6. Perfect for Meal Prep & Easy to Customize!
Tastes Better Over Time! – The longer it sits, the richer the flavors get—perfect for meal prep.
Freezes Like a Dream – Batch cook and store portions for quick, high-protein meals on busy days.
Customizable to Any Diet –
Want more protein? Add beans or shredded chicken.
Lower carb? Swap brown rice for cauliflower rice.
Vegetarian? Use lentils instead of meat!
I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or share a photo of your dish on social media and tag me. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who are looking for the ultimate High-Protein Stuffed Cabbage Soup—they’ll thank you for it! 🥚✨
This High-Protein Stuffed Cabbage Soup is hearty, nutritious, and packed with lean protein, fiber, and rich flavors—perfect for meal prep & weight loss!
Ingredients
Protein & Base:
1 1/2lbs Lean ground beef ((, 93% lean)– High in protein, lower in fat.)
2tbsp Canola oil (– For sautéing and adding heart-healthy fats.)
Vegetables:
4cups Green cabbage (, chopped – Adds bulk, fiber, and classic stuffed cabbage flavor.)
2cups Yellow onion (, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth.)
1 1/4cups Carrots (, chopped – Natural sweetness and color.)
1cup Celery (, chopped – Enhances the savory broth.)
Seasoning & Flavor:
2tbsp Light brown sugar (– Balances acidity.)
1tbsp Smoked paprika (– Adds a deep, smoky flavor.)
1tsp Salt (– Enhances all the flavors.)
1/2tsp Ground black pepper (– For a touch of warmth.)
1Can No-salt-added tomato sauce (, 15 oz – A rich tomato base.)
4Cups Unsalted chicken broth (– Creates a hearty soup.)
1/4cup Medium-grain brown rice (– A wholesome, fiber-filled carb.)
For Garnish (Optional):
2tbsp Fresh flat-leaf parsley (, chopped – Brightens the soup!)
Instructions
Sauté the Beef:
Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 6–7 minutes).
Add the Veggies:
Stir in the cabbage, onion, carrots, and celery.
Cook until the onion turns translucent (about 5 minutes).
Season & Toast the Spices:
Add brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
Stir continuously for 1 minute until fragrant.
Build the Soup:
Pour in the tomato sauce and broth, scraping the pot to deglaze and get all those flavorful bits!
Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
Add the Rice & Simmer:
Stir in brown rice, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and let simmer for 30–35 minutes until rice is tender.
Serve & Enjoy!
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
Amount Per Serving
Calories320kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat9g14%
Total Carbohydrate29g10%
Dietary Fiber5g20%
Protein27g54%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
This High-Protein Stuffed Cabbage Soup is a total game-changer in my house! The first time I made it, my husband took one bite, looked at me, and said, "This tastes like it’s been cooking all day!" (Spoiler: It hadn’t!)
My kids? Well, they were skeptical at first—cabbage isn’t exactly their favorite—but once they realized it was hearty, meaty, and full of flavor, they devoured their bowls. Now, they actually ask for it!
It’s rich, cozy, protein-packed, and 100% family-approved… which, in my book, makes it an absolute keeper!
