Ground Beef Cabbage Soup is a savory, one-pot dish made with ground beef, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings. The combination of beef, cabbage, and other vegetables creates a rich, satisfying meal. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a nutritious and easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The soup is also budget-friendly, using simple ingredients that pack a punch in taste and nutrition.
Making Ground Beef Cabbage Soup is quick and easy. The cooking process usually takes about 45 minutes. The time is divided between browning the beef, sautéing the vegetables, and letting the soup simmer to bring out all the flavors. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Many home cooks enjoy making Ground Beef Cabbage Soup because it’s both delicious and versatile. The dish can easily be customized with additional ingredients like potatoes or beans, depending on personal preferences. The combination of savory beef, tender vegetables, and spices creates a satisfying meal that’s both filling and comforting. It’s a simple recipe, but one that can be made in many different ways to suit various tastes. Whether served as a hearty soup or a light meal, it always delivers great flavor and satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love It Ground Beef Cabbage Soup
- Healthy and Nutritious: Ground beef cabbage soup is packed with vitamins and minerals. The cabbage provides fiber, while the beef offers protein. It’s a well-rounded meal that keeps you feeling full and energized.
- Easy to Make: This soup is simple to prepare with everyday ingredients. It’s a one-pot meal that requires minimal time and effort, perfect for busy weeknights. You can have a wholesome meal ready in no time.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to your taste. Add more vegetables, use different seasonings, or swap the beef for ground turkey. It’s a flexible recipe that fits many preferences.
Ingredient Notes for Ground Beef Cabbage Soup
- Ground Beef: A lean, flavorful protein that gives the soup its hearty base. It adds richness and helps make the soup filling. You can use lean or extra lean ground beef for a healthier version.
- Onion: Adds a savory, aromatic depth to the soup. Onions provide sweetness when cooked and blend well with the other flavors.
- Garlic: A must-have for adding a burst of flavor. Garlic enhances the savory profile of the soup and complements the beef and vegetables.
- Cabbage: The star vegetable of this soup. Cabbage cooks down to a tender texture, soaking up the flavors of the broth. It’s a low-calorie vegetable packed with nutrients.
- Carrots: Carrots bring a natural sweetness and a slight crunch, balancing out the richness of the beef. They also provide color and essential vitamins.
- Celery Stalks: Celery adds a subtle, refreshing crunch to the soup. It blends well with other vegetables and adds a fresh flavor to the broth.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes give the soup a rich, tangy base. They add acidity and depth, making the soup more complex and flavorful.
- Beef Broth: Beef broth is the foundation of the soup’s savory liquid base. It’s rich in flavor and helps cook the vegetables, pulling all the ingredients together.
- Dried Thyme: A fragrant herb that gives the soup an earthy, slightly floral flavor. Thyme pairs well with beef and adds depth to the broth.
- Dried Basil: Basil offers a mild, slightly sweet taste that enhances the overall flavor profile. It complements the tomatoes and beef broth perfectly.
- Paprika: Adds a smoky and slightly sweet taste, bringing a touch of warmth to the soup. Paprika balances the savory and acidic elements of the dish.
- Black Pepper: Black pepper brings a mild heat and depth to the soup. It enhances the flavors of the ground beef and vegetables, making the soup more vibrant.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the onions, garlic, and beef, olive oil adds a smooth texture and a mild, fruity flavor. It’s a healthier alternative to butter.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning. Salt enhances all the flavors in the soup, ensuring that each ingredient shines through.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness at the end. It also gives the soup a slight herbal note to balance the richness of the beef.
Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch to Ground Beef Cabbage Soup
Ground Beef Cabbage Soup is a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare. To make it even better, consider using lean ground beef to reduce fat. Adding extra vegetables like carrots or bell peppers can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of your soup.
Experiment with different seasonings to add depth to your Ground Beef Cabbage Soup. Try adding garlic, thyme, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
When preparing Ground Beef Cabbage Soup, make sure to brown the beef thoroughly. This adds richness to the soup and deepens the overall taste. After browning, drain excess fat for a healthier option. Let the soup simmer for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
Ground Beef Cabbage Soup Variation
You can easily vary the Ground Beef Cabbage Soup by adding different vegetables or seasonings. Try incorporating potatoes for a heartier texture, or throw in some beans for extra fiber and protein. For those who prefer a spicier kick, adding a dash of red pepper flakes or hot sauce will elevate the flavor. You can also substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Experiment with different broths, such as vegetable or chicken, for a unique taste. Additionally, adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving will add a tangy twist to the soup.
How to Serve Ground Beef Cabbage Soup
Ground Beef Cabbage Soup can be served in a variety of ways. For a simple yet filling meal, serve it as is with a side of crusty bread. This will allow you to soak up the delicious broth and make your meal even more satisfying.
If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, pair it with a light salad or a bowl of rice. These sides add variety and texture while keeping the meal balanced and nutritious. You can even top the soup with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Storage Options
Leftover Ground Beef Cabbage Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. This makes Ground Beef Cabbage Soup a great option for meal prepping.
FAQs About Ground Beef Cabbage Soup
Is Ground Beef Cabbage Soup healthy?
Yes, Ground Beef Cabbage Soup can be a healthy choice as it’s packed with lean protein, fiber, and vitamins from the cabbage and other vegetables. It’s low in carbs and can easily be made with lean ground beef for a healthier option.
 How long does Ground Beef Cabbage Soup last in the fridge?
Ground Beef Cabbage Soup can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I make Ground Beef Cabbage Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Ground Beef Cabbage Soup ahead of time as the flavors develop even more after sitting for a few hours. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
What can I serve with Ground Beef Cabbage Soup?
Ground Beef Cabbage Soup pairs well with a slice of crusty bread, a side salad, or some crackers. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Ground Beef Cabbage Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned, remove any excess fat from the pot.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the Cabbage and Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped cabbage and the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice). Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to soften.
- Pour in the Broth: Add the beef broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
- Season the Soup: Add thyme, basil, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Serve: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with some crusty bread or crackers on the side.
