Hearty Cabbage Ground Beef Soup

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Hearty Cabbage Ground Beef Soup

Description

Hearty Cabbage Ground Beef Soup is a wholesome, comforting one-pot meal packed with tender cabbage, savory ground beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato-infused broth. This budget-friendly soup is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or chilly days when you want something warm and satisfying. The cabbage becomes tender while absorbing the flavors of the seasoned beef and vegetables, creating a delicious balance of texture and taste. High in protein and loaded with vegetables, this soup is both nourishing and filling without being overly heavy.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  6. Stir in the chopped cabbage and reduce heat to a simmer.
  7. Cover and cook for 25–30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  8. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Recipe Notes

  • Green cabbage works best, but Savoy cabbage can also be used.
  • Lean ground beef keeps the soup flavorful while reducing excess grease.
  • For a richer broth, use homemade beef stock.
  • The flavors deepen after sitting overnight, making leftovers especially delicious.

Tips for Success

  • Chop vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
  • Brown the beef thoroughly to develop a richer flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking the cabbage to maintain some texture.
  • Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
  • Freeze individual portions for quick future meals.

Servings

Makes: 6 servings

Serving Size: Approximately 1½ cups

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values:

  • Calories: 240
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Fat: 13 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg

Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients used.

Benefits

  • Rich in protein from ground beef, helping support muscle maintenance.
  • Cabbage provides fiber, vitamins C and K, and beneficial antioxidants.
  • Contains a variety of vegetables for added nutrients and flavor.
  • Filling and satisfying while remaining relatively moderate in calories.
  • Excellent for meal prep and freezer-friendly storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter version of the soup.

How long does this soup last?

Stored in an airtight container, it will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, dinner rolls, cornbread, or a simple green salad pair wonderfully with this soup.

Can I make it low-carb?

The recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates. To reduce carbs further, omit the carrots.

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños while simmering.

This Hearty Cabbage Ground Beef Soup is a simple, nourishing meal that delivers rich flavor, satisfying texture, and comforting warmth in every spoonful. Perfect for family dinners and make-ahead meals alike.

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