Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef

Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef : A hearty, flavorful soup loaded with tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and vegetables in a rich tomato broth.

Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is the ultimate one-pot comfort meal. This dish combines savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and a colorful mix of vegetables in a rich, tomato-based broth that is both satisfying and nourishing. It is the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out and tastes even better the next day. Whether you are looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a big batch of meal prep, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. Everything comes together in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen as it simmers. The cabbage becomes tender and sweet, absorbing all the savory goodness of the beef and tomatoes. It is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple salad.

The Ingredients

- 1 pound ground beef

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 large onion, diced

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced

- 3 stalks celery, chopped

- 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and chopped

- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained

- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

- 6 cups beef broth

- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

- Add the ground beef and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it up into crumbles, until browned. Drain any excess fat.

- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.

- Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

- Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate any browned bits.

- Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.

- Add the chopped cabbage in batches, stirring to wilt it down between additions.

- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

- Cover and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage and vegetables are tender.

- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

- Serve hot with crusty bread.

Pro Tips and Variations

For extra flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of regular. You can also add a splash of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar at the end to brighten the flavors.

This recipe is highly adaptable. Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or Italian sausage. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based crumbles and vegetable broth.

Add a cup of cooked rice or small pasta during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a heartier meal.

For a spicier version, add a finely chopped jalapeño with the onion or increase the red pepper flakes.

Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen and improve overnight. The soup also freezes well for up to three months.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef provides approximately 300 to 400 calories. It contains roughly 20 grams of protein, 15 grams of fat, 25 grams of carbohydrates, and 6 grams of fiber. The sodium content is around 800 to 1100 milligrams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use coleslaw mix instead of a whole cabbage? Yes, a bag of coleslaw mix works perfectly and saves time. Add it during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.

Why is my cabbage soup bitter? Some cabbage varieties can taste slightly bitter, especially older heads. A splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar at the end of cooking helps balance the flavor.

Can I add potatoes to this soup? Yes, diced potatoes are a delicious addition. Add them with the carrots and celery so they have time to soften.

What can I serve with this soup? Crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad all pair beautifully with this hearty soup.

Conclusion

Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is a delicious, hearty, and nourishing meal that comes together in one pot with minimal effort. The savory beef, tender cabbage, and rich tomato broth create a soup that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you serve it for a cozy weeknight dinner or make a big batch for meal prep, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.