Cabbage soup with ground beef is the epitome of comfort food. Its warm, hearty nature makes it a go-to meal for chilly days or when you’re craving something wholesome. This dish combines the savory flavor of ground beef with the subtle sweetness of cabbage, resulting in a soup that’s satisfying and nutritious.
One of its standout qualities is its affordability. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dish that feeds the whole family. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can make it ahead of time, freeze it for later, or tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences.
Whether served as a light starter or a full meal, cabbage soup with ground beef is a timeless recipe that’s both delicious and practical. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad, and you’ve got a meal that hits all the right notes.
For another cozy dish, check out our Cream of Mushroom Chicken and Rice Recipe.
Ingredients for the Best Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
Cabbage soup with ground beef comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this hearty and satisfying dish.
Simple, Everyday Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Green cabbage (shredded) | 1 medium head (about 6 cups) |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Carrots (sliced) | 2 medium |
| Celery (chopped) | 2 stalks |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Beef broth | 4 cups |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish |
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
- Ground Beef Alternatives:
Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option. - Vegetables:
Add potatoes for extra heartiness or zucchini for a low-carb twist. - Flavor Boosters:
Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for depth. For a tangy kick, try a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Pro Tip: Using fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can elevate the dish, making it feel gourmet.
For more inspiration on working with versatile ingredients, check out our Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipe or our Cabbage and Sausage Recipe.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
This step-by-step guide ensures your cabbage soup with ground beef turns out flavorful and hearty every time. Let’s dive into the process!
1. Prepping the Ingredients
Start by gathering and preparing your ingredients for smooth cooking:
- Shred the Cabbage: Remove the outer leaves, rinse thoroughly, and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice the Vegetables: Dice the onion, slice the carrots, and chop the celery for even cooking.
- Mince the Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor.
2. Cooking the Ground Beef and Aromatics
- Heat Olive Oil:
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. Adding the Cabbage and Broth
- Incorporate the Cabbage:
- Stir in the shredded cabbage, allowing it to soften slightly in the pot.
- Add Liquid and Tomatoes:
- Pour in the beef broth, canned diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.
- Season the Soup:
- Add bay leaves, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together for an even distribution of flavors.
4. Simmering for Maximum Flavor
- Bring to a Boil:
- Turn up the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Simmer and Cook:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 30–40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Remove the bay leaves and taste-test the soup. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or paprika to your liking.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish the Soup:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
- Pair It Perfectly:
- Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a dollop of sour cream on top for extra richness.
For another hearty and satisfying meal, explore our Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup or add a twist with our Cabbage and Sausage Recipe.
Delicious Variations of This Recipe
One of the best things about cabbage soup with ground beef is its versatility. With a few tweaks and additions, you can create entirely new versions of this hearty dish to suit your taste buds or dietary preferences.
1. Chunky Vegetable Cabbage Soup
- Add diced potatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers for a chunky, vegetable-packed version.
- Include a can of kidney beans or chickpeas to boost fiber and protein.
- For a colorful twist, try adding red cabbage instead of green.
2. Spicy Cabbage Soup
- Amp up the flavor with red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Swap regular ground beef for spicy sausage or chorizo.
- Add a dollop of sour cream to balance the heat.
3. Creamy Cabbage Soup
- Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 10 minutes of simmering for a creamy, velvety texture.
- Top with shredded cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, for added richness.
4. Low-Carb Cabbage Soup
- Skip the carrots and potatoes to make it keto-friendly.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess without the carbs.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
5. Global Flavor Inspirations
- Italian Style:
- Add Italian seasoning, a pinch of fennel seeds, and a handful of cooked pasta or orzo. Pair with garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Mexican Twist:
- Stir in taco seasoning, diced green chilies, and a handful of corn. Garnish with cilantro and lime juice for a zesty finish.
- Asian Fusion:
- Use sesame oil instead of olive oil, and add soy sauce, ginger, and sliced mushrooms. Serve with a side of rice or noodles.
For more ideas on turning simple ingredients into exciting meals, check out our Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe or the flavorful Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad.
Nutritional Benefits of Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
Cabbage soup with ground beef isn’t just comforting and flavorful—it’s packed with nutrients that support a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Let’s explore why this dish is a nutritional powerhouse.
1. High in Protein
Ground beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for:
- Building and repairing muscles.
- Supporting immune function.
- Keeping you full and satisfied for longer.
Pro Tip: Use lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce fat content while maintaining protein levels.
2. Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals
Cabbage is a nutrient-dense vegetable that provides an impressive array of vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and promotes healthy skin.
- Vitamin K: Supports bone health and blood clotting.
- Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure.
Adding other vegetables like carrots and celery further increases the soup’s nutritional value, providing beta-carotene and antioxidants.
3. Low in Calories
Cabbage soup is naturally low in calories, making it a great option for those aiming to manage their weight without sacrificing flavor.
- Serving Tip: Pair with a light side like our Spicy Cucumber Salad to keep the meal balanced.
4. Packed with Fiber
Cabbage and other vegetables in the soup are rich in dietary fiber, which:
- Supports digestive health.
- Promotes a feeling of fullness.
- Helps regulate blood sugar levels.
5. Heart-Healthy Ingredients
Opting for olive oil as your cooking fat adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Additionally, using reduced-sodium broth can help keep sodium levels in check, supporting cardiovascular health.
6. Keto and Low-Carb Friendly
By skipping starchy vegetables like potatoes, you can easily make this recipe keto-friendly. Ground beef and cabbage provide essential nutrients while keeping carbs to a minimum.
For another low-carb meal idea, check out our Cabbage and Sausage Recipe, which is equally hearty and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage Soup Recipes with Ground Beef
The cabbage soup diet promotes weight loss primarily because it’s low in calories and high in fiber, which helps you feel full while consuming fewer calories overall. However, most of the weight lost is water weight, and the diet isn’t sustainable for long-term results.
Cabbage soup can taste bland if it lacks sufficient seasoning. Enhance the flavor by adding spices like paprika, garlic powder, or red pepper flakes. Using a rich beef broth or a splash of Worcestershire sauce can also deepen the taste.
Yes, cabbage soup can be good for high blood pressure, especially when made with low-sodium broth. Cabbage is rich in potassium, which helps balance sodium levels in the body, promoting healthier blood pressure.
Green cabbage is the most commonly used type for soup due to its mild flavor and tender texture. However, savoy or napa cabbage can add a unique twist, and red cabbage works well for a more vibrant presentation.
The 7-day cabbage soup diet claims you can lose up to 10 pounds in a week. However, this is mostly water weight, and the diet lacks the balanced nutrition needed for sustainable weight loss.
For more sustainable weight loss, focus on:
-Eating nutrient-dense, low-calorie meals like cabbage soup.
-Staying hydrated and avoiding sugary drinks.
-Incorporating regular exercise and reducing processed foods.
For additional tips and meal ideas, explore our Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad or Healthy Deviled Eggs Without Mayo.
Conclusion: A Timeless Comfort Dish
Cabbage soup with ground beef is more than just a meal—it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. This recipe combines wholesome ingredients with a depth of flavor that satisfies the soul. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner, an easy meal prep option, or a nutrient-packed dish to fit into your health goals, cabbage soup delivers every time.
This timeless dish also offers endless possibilities for customization. From spicy twists to creamy variations, it adapts beautifully to your preferences. Plus, its affordability and ease of preparation make it a go-to for busy weeknights or batch cooking for the week ahead.
So, grab your favorite pot, gather fresh ingredients, and bring this comforting recipe to life in your kitchen. With every spoonful, you’ll enjoy not just a delicious meal but the satisfaction of cooking something nourishing and timeless.
For more recipes that warm the heart and delight the palate, check out our Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe or explore the rich flavors of our Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup.
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