Campbell Soup Cabbage Roll Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and richness of cabbage rolls. This classic dish has been cherished across generations and cultures for its ability to bring family and friends together around the table. It’s a hearty, filling meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or those moments when you just want something satisfying. In this post, we’re diving into a beloved variation: the Campbell Soup Cabbage Roll Recipe.

This version combines the heartiness of cabbage rolls with the creaminess and depth of flavor that Campbell’s soups are known for. By using Campbell’s soup as a base, we’re creating a dish that’s not only quick and easy to make but also packed with incredible flavors that’ll make your taste buds sing.

So, let’s break down everything you need to know to recreate this delicious, comforting meal in your own kitchen.

Campbell Soup Cabbage Roll Recipe

This recipe transforms the classic cabbage roll by using Campbell’s soup, specifically their tomato soup, which adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to the dish. The combination of seasoned ground beef, rice, and savory tomato sauce wrapped in tender cabbage leaves makes for a filling and satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week, these cabbage rolls will quickly become a go-to in your rotation.

Ingredients Needed

Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to gather all the ingredients. Don’t worry – they’re easy to find at any local grocery store, and you probably already have some of them at home!

For The Cabbage Rolls

• 1 large head of cabbage: You’ll want a big, firm cabbage to get nice, large leaves that will easily roll up your filling.
• 1 lb ground beef: Ground beef provides the richness and flavor base for the filling.
• 1 cup cooked rice: This is the bulk of the filling. You can use white rice, brown rice, or even a mixture of both depending on your preferences.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the filling.
• 1 egg: To help bind the filling together.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic adds an aromatic, savory element to the filling.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors of the filling and the soup.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: For a little kick and seasoning.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This adds a touch of umami and depth to the beef filling.

For The Tomato Sauce

• 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Tomato Soup: This is the star of the dish, adding that creamy, tangy base to the cabbage rolls.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: To add extra tomato flavor and texture.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar: This balances the acidity of the tomatoes and gives the sauce a slight sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Gives the sauce an herby, Mediterranean touch.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Another herby addition that pairs perfectly with tomatoes.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season the sauce and bring all the flavors together.

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get to the fun part – cooking! This recipe is pretty straightforward and doesn’t require a ton of hands-on time. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare The Cabbage Leaves

   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cut out the core of the cabbage, making an ’X’ shape in the base of the cabbage.
   • Carefully place the entire cabbage into the boiling water for about 5-8 minutes, or until the outer leaves are tender and can be easily peeled away. Continue removing leaves until you have 12-15 good-sized ones.
   • Trim the thick vein in the center of each leaf so they’ll roll easily.

2. Make The Filling

   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until everything is well combined.

3. Assemble The Cabbage Rolls

   • Lay each cabbage leaf flat on a surface and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling in the center.
   • Roll the leaf around the filling, folding in the sides as you go to secure it.
   • Repeat for all the cabbage leaves.

4. Prepare The Tomato Sauce

   • In a large saucepan, combine the Campbell’s Tomato Soup, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.

5. Cook The Cabbage Rolls

   • Place the cabbage rolls in a large baking dish or Dutch oven, seam side down.
   • Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls, making sure they are well-coated.
   • Cover the dish with a lid or foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes. The cabbage should be tender, and the filling should be cooked through.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down some of the key ingredients and their roles in the dish:

• Cabbage: The cabbage leaves provide the perfect wrap for the savory filling. Their slight crunch and ability to absorb the tomato sauce make them the ideal vessel for this dish. Cabbage is also rich in fiber and vitamins, so you’re not just eating comfort food; you’re getting a dose of nutrients too.
• Ground Beef: Ground beef is a classic choice for this recipe, but it’s worth mentioning that you could also use ground turkey, chicken, or pork if you prefer. The beef provides richness and flavor, which balances out the tanginess of the tomato sauce.
• Campbell’s Tomato Soup: This iconic product is more than just a soup – it’s a versatile ingredient that adds creaminess, sweetness, and a balanced tomato flavor. It’s quick, easy, and ensures the sauce has that smooth, velvety texture that everyone loves.
• Rice: The rice in the filling serves to bulk it up and make it even more filling. Plus, it soaks up the juices from the tomato sauce, adding extra flavor.

Expert Tips

• For extra flavor, try sautéing the onions and garlic in a little bit of olive oil before mixing them into the beef. This adds a layer of sweetness and depth to the filling.
• If the cabbage leaves are tough or difficult to roll, you can cut out the center vein, but another trick is to microwave the cabbage for 3-4 minutes to soften the leaves before you remove them. It works wonders!
• Want to make it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the tomato sauce for a bit of heat.
• Don’t skip the baking step – it’s where all the magic happens. Baking allows the flavors to meld together, and the cabbage becomes tender while absorbing the delicious tomato sauce.
• Make ahead: These cabbage rolls store wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days, and they also freeze well for future meals. Just ensure you let them cool before transferring them into an airtight container.

Recipe Variations

While the Campbell Soup Cabbage Roll Recipe is already fantastic, there are plenty of ways to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls: Swap out the ground beef for lentils, mushrooms, or even a combination of grains like quinoa and bulgur. This is a great option for vegetarians or anyone wanting a lighter alternative.
• Cheesy Cabbage Rolls: Add a layer of shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar) inside the rolls or on top of the sauce before baking. Cheese melts into the tomato sauce, adding creaminess and richness.
• Sauerkrout Twist: For an extra tangy bite, add a layer of sauerkraut inside the rolls or mix it into the tomato sauce.
• Spicy Cabbage Rolls: As mentioned earlier, adding chili flakes or even a diced poblano pepper can give your rolls a nice kick. You could also add a bit of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.

Final Words

This Campbell Soup Cabbage Roll recipe is a perfect blend of tradition and convenience. The use of Campbell’s Tomato Soup simplifies the cooking process without sacrificing flavor, making it an ideal meal for busy nights or whenever you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a dish that’s easy to personalize, whether you like it spicier, cheesier, or packed with veggies.