Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hearty Cabbage Soup is a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition. It’s not only packed with vegetables and protein but also versatile, allowing for easy substitutions based on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it as-is or tweak it to suit your taste, this soup is a comforting, soul-warming meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Key Features:

• Budget-friendly and made from pantry staples

• Low in carbs, high in protein and fiber

• Naturally gluten-free and customizable for various diets

• Full of rich, savory flavors that satisfy the senses

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean or extra lean)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing, optional)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups green cabbage, chopped

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

• 6 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (adds brightness)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Aromatics and Beef
   Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add olive oil (if needed) and sauté the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook the beef until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes.

2. Add the Vegetables
   Toss in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Stir well to mix the vegetables with the browned beef. Sauté the mixture for 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and absorb flavor.

3. Pour in the Liquids
   Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir until the tomato paste dissolves fully into the broth. Add Worcestershire sauce and apple cider vinegar to deepen the flavor profile.

4. Season the Soup
   Add salt, black pepper, oregano, paprika, thyme, and bay leaves. If you enjoy a touch of heat, stir in red pepper flakes. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes.

5. Final Touches
   Remove bay leaves before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (more salt, vinegar, or pepper). Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

This Hearty Cabbage Soup is versatile and can be easily adjusted to fit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Keto-friendly: Omit the carrots and replace them with zucchini or bell peppers.

• Low-sodium: Use homemade or no-salt-added broth and reduce the added salt.

• Vegan/Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or plant-based crumbles.

• Add grains: For a heartier soup, mix in cooked brown rice, quinoa, or barley.

• Switch proteins: Try ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken.

• Add beans: White beans, kidney beans, or cannellini beans are great for extra protein and bulk.

Storage/Reheating

• Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I freeze this cabbage soup?

Yes, this soup freezes wonderfully. After cooling completely, store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Reheat it on the stovetop or microwave.

How do I make this in a slow cooker?

Brown the beef and onion first, then add all the ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Is this soup keto-friendly?

Yes! If you omit the carrots, this soup can easily fit into a keto diet.

Can I add potatoes or rice?

You can, but keep in mind it will no longer be low-carb. Add 1 cup of diced potatoes or ½ cup of cooked rice during the simmering phase.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or even lentils or beans can be used for a vegetarian version.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix?

Yes, this is a convenient option, but keep in mind that the texture may be softer than using fresh cabbage.

What’s the best broth to use?

Beef broth gives the soup a deep flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth can also be used in a pinch. Opt for low-sodium to control the salt content.

Can I add extra vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale for extra nutrients and flavor.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to the soup for a kick of heat.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is even better the next day! Make it in advance, let the flavors meld overnight, and enjoy it the following day.

Conclusion

Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is the perfect recipe for a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious meal. It’s easy to make, packed with healthy ingredients, and offers plenty of opportunities for customization. Whether you're serving it on a busy weeknight, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a warm, cozy bowl, this soup is sure to become a go-to favorite. Enjoy every spoonful!