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Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup

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Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup

Description

Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup is a comforting, budget-friendly one-pot meal loaded with tender cabbage, lean ground beef, vegetables, and a flavorful tomato-based broth. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and wholesome ingredients, making it a satisfying lunch or dinner. This soup is perfect for chilly evenings, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional if beef is lean)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 1 cup green beans or corn (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Stir in paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 minute.

Step 4: Build the Soup

Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, bay leaf, cabbage, and optional vegetables.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes until the cabbage and vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Finish

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Recipe Notes

  • Lean ground turkey works well as a substitute.
  • Red cabbage can be used for a slightly sweeter flavor.
  • Add potatoes for an even heartier soup.
  • The soup thickens slightly after refrigeration.
  • The flavors improve the next day.

Tips

  • Brown the beef well for richer flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the cabbage—it should remain slightly tender.
  • Use homemade beef broth if available.
  • Add a splash of hot sauce for gentle heat.
  • Stir occasionally while simmering.
  • Freeze in individual portions for quick meals.

Storage

Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Freezer: Up to 3 months.

Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until hot throughout.

Serving Suggestions

  • Crusty artisan bread
  • Garlic bread
  • Cornbread
  • Side salad
  • Crackers
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 285
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
  • Sodium: 760 mg
  • Potassium: 760 mg
  • Vitamin A: 80% DV
  • Vitamin C: 55% DV
  • Calcium: 8% DV
  • Iron: 18% DV

Nutrition will vary depending on the ingredients used.

Health Benefits

  • High in Protein: Ground beef supports muscle growth and repair.
  • Rich in Fiber: Cabbage and vegetables promote healthy digestion.
  • Vitamin C Boost: Cabbage helps support the immune system.
  • Nutrient-Dense: Provides vitamins A, K, and several B vitamins.
  • Comforting Yet Balanced: Filling without being overly heavy.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats well for convenient meals.
  • Hydrating: The broth contributes to daily fluid intake.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes. It tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight.

2. Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. Freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes. Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives.

4. Is this soup low carb?

Yes. Without potatoes or pasta, it is relatively low in carbohydrates.

5. Can I make it spicy?

Yes. Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños.

6. What type of cabbage is best?

Green cabbage is the classic choice, though Savoy cabbage also works well.

7. Can I add rice or pasta?

Yes. Stir in cooked rice or small pasta during the last few minutes of cooking.

8. How do I make it thicker?

Add diced potatoes, reduce the broth slightly, or stir in a small amount of tomato paste.

9. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours.

10. What herbs pair well with this soup?

Parsley, thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary, and bay leaf all complement the flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup is a wholesome, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. With its savory broth, tender vegetables, and protein-rich beef, it’s a satisfying recipe the whole family can enjoy year-round.

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