Zoe Adelson
Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a wholesome meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying. This soup is packed with tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. It’s a delightful combination of rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a filling dinner or a meal prep staple.
What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to prepare. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up a large pot of this comforting soup in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something warm and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Ingredients for Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
To store leftover Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portioned containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving (1 cup approximate):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
These values are approximate and can vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative, offering a lighter yet still delicious flavor.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the ground beef and add extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version.
3. What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad are excellent pairings for this hearty soup.
4. Can I add potatoes or other vegetables?
Yes, diced potatoes, zucchini, or green beans can be great additions to enhance the soup’s texture and flavor.
5. How do I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
6. Can I cook this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Will the cabbage get too soft if I reheat it?
Cabbage can soften slightly when reheated, but the soup will still taste great. Avoid boiling it for too long to maintain some texture.
8. Is this soup keto-friendly?
Yes! This recipe is low in carbs, making it a great choice for those following a keto lifestyle.
Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Loaded with tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, and colorful vegetables, this rich and savory soup is as nutritious as it is satisfying. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or when you need a nourishing bowl of goodness to warm you up. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, simple to make, and packed with wholesome ingredients — an ideal addition to your collection of easy dinner ideas.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
4 cups beef broth
1 large onion, diced
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked beef to the pot. Add cabbage, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Cook the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with bread or crackers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner