Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup, there’s something downright magical about a big pot of bubbling soup on the stove, especially when it’s packed with juicy meatballs, tender cabbage, and a tomato-kissed broth that smells like pure love. This Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup is the kind of recipe that makes you want to linger at the table a little longer, with crusty bread in one hand and a spoon in the other.

Whether you’re chasing away a chilly day or looking for a cozy Sunday supper, this soup is hearty, wholesome, and absolutely bursting with flavor. It’s one of those “feel good” dishes that also makes the house smell like a warm hug. Trust me, you’re going to love this.

So grab your biggest pot and get ready to stir up something seriously comforting.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. The kind that make you close your eyes after that first spoonful and go, “Oh wow, this is good.” Here’s why this soup is a game-changer:

• It’s hearty and nourishing – think of it as a full meal in a bowl.
• Make-ahead magic – you can prep the meatballs in advance (hello, busy weeknights).
• Flavor-packed – herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil bring a Mediterranean brightness.
• Family-friendly – even picky eaters won’t resist those tender meatballs.
• Leftover gold – it gets even better the next day!

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Want to nail this dish on your very first try? Here are some insider secrets that’ll have you cooking like a pro:

• Chill your meatballs: It helps them stay firm when they hit the hot broth.
• Add meatballs slowly: Give the soup time to stay hot and gently cook each one perfectly.
• Use stock if you can: It deepens the flavor beautifully.
• Let it rest: A good 30-minute sit post-cooking thickens the soup and deepens flavor. An hour? Even better.
• Don’t skimp on the lemon: That zing ties everything together and cuts through the richness like a charm.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs (makes 12 meatballs – about 60g each):

1. 500 grams (17.6 oz) ground beef or pork (or half and half)
2. 80 grams (2.8 oz) ripe tomato
3. 1 egg yolk
4. 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
5. 1 garlic clove, minced or pressed
6. 50 grams (½ medium-sized) onion, minced
7. 50 grams (4 tablespoons) short-grain rice
8. 1½ tablespoons parsley, minced
9. 1½ tablespoons dill, minced
10. ⅔ teaspoon mint, minced
11. 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
12. ½ teaspoon thyme
13. ⅔ teaspoon salt
14. ⅓ teaspoon ground pepper

For The Soup:

1. 10 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2. 450 grams (15.8 oz) ripe tomatoes, chopped or diced
3. 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
4. 2 teaspoons tomato paste
5. 10 tablespoons tomato sauce (tomato passata)
6. 8 cups hot water or stock (vegetable, beef, or chicken)
7. 1 bay leaf
8. 100 grams (1 small) green bell pepper, diced
9. 70 grams (2.4 oz) celery stalks including leaves, chopped
10. 450 grams (15.8 oz) white cabbage, shredded
11. 100 grams (9 tablespoons) short-grain rice, rinsed
12. 2 tablespoons parsley, minced
13. 1½ tablespoons dill, minced
14. 6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
15. Extra lemon to serve

Instructions

Prepare The Meatballs:

TIP: You can prepare the meatballs up to 3 days in advance and store them in the fridge until soup time!

1. Combine all the meatball ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
2. Knead until everything is well mixed and holds together.
3. Shape into 12 equal-sized meatballs, about 60 grams each.
4. Place them on a dish, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to help them firm up.

Prepare The Soup:

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece…

1. Heat 5 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over high heat.
2. Add diced tomatoes and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato paste and tomato sauce. Season with salt. Cook 2 more minutes, stirring gently.
4. Pour in the hot stock or water. Toss in the bay leaf and bring to a hard boil.
5. Now, gently add the meatballs one at a time. Dip them in with a spoon, waiting 30 seconds between each to maintain the boiling temp.
6. Cook on medium heat for 20 minutes, with the lid slightly ajar.
7. Add cabbage, celery, and green bell pepper. Cook another 10 minutes.
8. Add the rinsed rice and remaining 5 tablespoons of olive oil. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is tender.
9. Stir in the parsley, dill, and lemon juice. Cook for 1 minute, then turn off the heat.
10. Let the soup sit on the warm stove for 30 minutes (or even an hour!). It’ll thicken and the flavors will mingle beautifully.
11. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon, a crack of black pepper, or a pinch of cayenne if you like a little heat.

How to Serve Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup

Serving Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup is where the fun really begins. After all that simmering and soul-warming aroma filling your kitchen, it’s time to ladle up some serious comfort. This soup isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Here are a few tasty ways to make the most of every bowl:

Go Classic & Cozy

Scoop generous portions of Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup into deep bowls. The meatballs should be floating gently, surrounded by tender cabbage ribbons and just-cooked rice. Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil on top and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. That lemony brightness? Chef’s kiss. Add a few cracks of black pepper or a sprinkle of cayenne if you’re feeling bold.

Crusty Bread is a Must

Trust me on this—Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup is made for bread-dunking. Think: warm sourdough, toasted pita, or a rustic baguette with a crispy crust and soft middle. Let it soak up all that tomato-rich broth. Your tastebuds will thank you.

Add a Creamy Touch

Want to make your Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup even more luscious? Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a swirl of sour cream right in the center of the bowl. It adds a creamy element that’s cooling and pairs beautifully with the herbs and lemon.

Sidekicks That Shine

Pair your Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Or serve it with roasted vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. Bonus points if you serve it with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with citrus.

Entertain Like a Pro

Serving Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup at a dinner party? Ladle it into ceramic or rustic earthenware bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, a lemon wedge on the side, and maybe a slice of hot chili for color. Place a basket of crusty bread in the center of the table and let everyone dive in. This soup is a crowd-pleaser, no doubt about it.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The beauty of this recipe lies in its texture—velvety broth, fluffy rice, and juicy meatballs. The cabbage softens just enough to melt in your mouth, while the herbs bring a fresh zing. The lemon juice at the end? It brightens the entire dish. This isn’t your average soup—it’s a melody of comforting textures and bold, clean flavors.

If cabbage is your thing (and it should be!), don’t miss this Greek Cabbage Salad (vinegar coleslaw)

How to Serve Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides, depending on how hearty you want your meal:

• Crusty sourdough or baguette – for soaking up every drop of that delicious broth.
• Fresh Greek salad – the cool crunch balances the warm, rich soup.
• A dollop of Greek yogurt – adds creaminess and a cool contrast.
• Chili flakes or cayenne pepper – for those who like a little kick.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t let leftovers go to waste! You can:

• Turn it into a stew: Just reheat with less liquid and mash a few meatballs in—bam! Stew vibes.
• Use as a pasta sauce: Remove some broth and mix the rest with pasta and grated cheese.
• Stuff a wrap: Drain the soup a little, and wrap the goodness in a flatbread with greens.
• Freeze it: Portion into containers and save it for those days you need a hug in a bowl.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to make this dish even better:

• Use fresh herbs when possible—dried will work, but fresh brings it to life.
• Don’t overcook the rice—check it at the 20-minute mark.
• Want it spicier? Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the broth.
• Leftover herbs? Mix them with olive oil and drizzle on top when serving.
• Keep it gluten-free by using gluten-free stock and ensuring your rice is uncontaminated.

Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)

Want to wow your guests? Here’s how:

• Serve in rustic bowls with a swirl of olive oil on top and a sprig of dill.
• Add a thin slice of lemon on the rim of the bowl.
• Use a deep-colored napkin (like burgundy or forest green) to make the soup pop.
• A sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper or chili flakes adds texture and visual flair.
• Pair with a glass of dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon wedges.

If you loved this Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup, then you have to try my Beef and Barley Stew – Classic Recipe

Perfect Pairings for Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup

Let’s talk about what to serve alongside a big, cozy bowl of Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup. Because while this soup is a star all on its own, the right pairings can take it to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a comforting family dinner or enjoying a solo bowl with your feet up, these ideas will help turn your Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup into a complete, satisfying meal.

Crusty Bread, Always

You simply can’t go wrong with bread. A slice of toasted sourdough or a hunk of crusty country loaf is the perfect companion to Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup. Use it to soak up all that savory, herby broth—it’s pure magic in every bite. Garlic bread? Even better.

Fresh Green Salads for Balance

Pair the rich, hearty flavors of Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup with something light and crisp like a mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette. Arugula, spinach, cucumbers, radishes—keep it simple and citrusy to complement the brightness of the soup’s lemony finish.

Roasted Veggies for Comfort on Comfort

For an ultra-cozy dinner, serve your Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup with a side of roasted vegetables—think carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts drizzled with olive oil and sea salt. Their caramelized edges add a sweet contrast to the tangy tomato broth of the soup.

Cheesy Toasts & Melty Grilled Sandwiches

Now we’re talking indulgence. A grilled cheese sandwich or cheesy toast on the side turns Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup into a soul-soothing feast. The gooey cheese and crisp bread add richness and texture that pair beautifully with the tender meatballs and silky broth.

Wine & Beverage Pairings

Yes, Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup is wine-worthy! A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will balance the lemony, herbal notes. Prefer something non-alcoholic? Go for a sparkling water with lemon or a lightly brewed iced tea with mint—it keeps things fresh and flavorful.

Extra Zing: Pickles or Fermented Sides

Feeling adventurous? Try serving Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup with a side of lightly pickled cucumbers or sauerkraut. The tangy crunch adds another layer of flavor that plays off the cabbage and herbs in the soup like a dream.

Conclusion

There’s just something magical about a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and serious flavor all in one spoonful—and this Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup totally delivers. It’s the kind of recipe that’s as much about the cozy vibes as it is about the delicious taste. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual weeknight dinner, feeding a crowd, or just want leftovers that actually excite you, this soup’s got you covered.

From the herby, tender meatballs to the zesty lemon finish and the rich tomato broth, every bite feels like a comforting hug. It’s satisfying, nourishing, and just plain soul-soothing. And with all those pro tips, tricks, and fun serving ideas, you’re ready to impress without the stress.

So the next time you’re craving something hearty, healthy, and made with love, you know what to do—grab your biggest pot, and let this cabbage meatball soup work its magic.

FAQ’s

Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup RECIPE