Comforting Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup

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Comforting Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup

 

Description

Comforting Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is a classic homestyle soup packed with seasoned ground beef, cabbage, tomatoes, carrots, and herbs simmered together in a flavorful broth. The cabbage becomes tender and naturally sweet while the beef adds richness and protein. This simple soup is cozy, nutritious, and easy to make with pantry-friendly ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ head cabbage, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups beef broth

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 potato, diced
  • 1 cup green beans
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • Chili flakes for heat

Instructions

Step 1: Cook Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.

Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.

Cook for 4–5 minutes until vegetables soften slightly.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in cabbage, diced tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring soup to a gentle boil.

Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–35 minutes until cabbage and vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Adjust & Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Garnish with parsley or chili flakes before serving.

Serve hot.

Notes

  • Green cabbage works best for classic flavor.
  • Ground turkey can replace beef for a lighter version.
  • Soup thickens slightly as it cools.
  • Worcestershire sauce adds savory depth.

Tips

  • Brown beef well for richer flavor.
  • Add extra broth if you prefer a thinner soup.
  • A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavor.
  • Let soup rest 10 minutes before serving for deeper flavor.
  • Freeze portions for quick future meals.

Servings

  • Serves: 6 people

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 260
  • Protein: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 540mg

Benefits

High in Protein

Ground beef helps keep meals satisfying and filling.

Rich in Vegetables

Cabbage, carrots, and celery provide vitamins and fiber.

Budget Friendly

Simple affordable ingredients feed a family.

Great for Meal Prep

Stores and reheats very well.

Comfort Food Classic

Warm, hearty, and perfect for cozy meals.

Storage

Refrigerator

Store in airtight container for up to 4–5 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Warm on stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Q&A

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well.

Is this soup low carb?

Yes, especially if you skip potatoes.

Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely. Add chili flakes or hot sauce.

What type of cabbage works best?

Green cabbage is traditional, but savoy cabbage also works.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown beef first, then slow cook on LOW for 6–7 hours.

Why is my soup bland?

Add more seasoning, broth concentrate, or Worcestershire sauce.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, cornbread, crackers, or a side salad pair perfectly.

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