Name: Golumpki Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Polish
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small head green cabbage, chopped; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 6 cups beef broth; 1 cup cooked white rice; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

Hey y'all! If you're craving a warm, cozy bowl of something special, this Golumpki soup is the answer. Inspired by classic Polish stuffed cabbage rolls, this soup packs all those savory, tomatoey, and meaty flavors you love—without the fuss of rolling cabbage! It's quick enough for weeknights, hearty enough for family gatherings, and perfect for anyone looking for a taste of home-cooked comfort. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Golumpki Soup

All the beloved flavors of traditional Polish cabbage rolls, but ready in a fraction of the time.
One-pot meal means easy prep and even easier cleanup.
Customizable for different diets—make it vegetarian or spice it up!
Loaded with wholesome veggies, beef, and rice for a complete meal.
Perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.

Golumpki Soup Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups green cabbage, chopped (about half a large head)
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
6 cups beef broth
½ cup uncooked white rice
2 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 ½ teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 ½ teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)

How to Make Golumpki Soup

1. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onion, garlic, celery, and carrots for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

2. Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink—about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add Cabbage and Spices

Stir in chopped cabbage, paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until cabbage begins to wilt.

4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.

5. Simmer and Cook Rice

Bring the soup to a boil, stir in rice, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage and rice are tender.

6. Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaf, ladle soup into bowls, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Enjoy piping hot!

Golumpki Soup Notes & Cooking Tips

For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth (see this guide).
For even more authentic flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end of cooking.
Swap in brown rice, but add 10 extra minutes to the simmer time (brown rice nutrition info).

Golumpki Soup Variations

Vegetarian Golumpki Soup: Use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth.
Spicy Golumpki Soup: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
Stuffed Peppers Soup: Swap cabbage with 2 large bell peppers, chopped.

Required Equipment for Golumpki Soup

Large Dutch oven or stockpot (at least 6 quarts)
Wooden spoon
Sharp knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Golumpki Soup Storage Instructions

Cool soup completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove. Note: Rice may absorb extra liquid, so add a splash of broth when reheating.

Serving Recommendations & Pairings for Golumpki Soup

Serve with crusty rye bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh dill for extra flavor.
Pair with traditional Polish pierogi or potato pancakes for a hearty feast (how to make pierogi).

Pro Tips for the Perfect Golumpki Soup

Chop the cabbage small for quicker cooking and better texture.
If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce the liquid.
Let the soup rest for 15 minutes after cooking—flavors meld beautifully (learn why resting soups helps).

Golumpki Soup FAQ

Can I make Golumpki soup in a slow cooker?: Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?: Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute and works well in this recipe.
How do I prevent soggy rice in Golumpki soup?: If you prefer firmer rice, cook it separately and add it just before serving to prevent overcooking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Golumpki soup