Imagine a warm bowl of soup that wraps you in a cozy hug, filled with tender beef, vibrant veggies, and a rich broth that sparkles with flavor. This Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is just that! It’s creamy without any heavy cream, bringing together ingredients you probably have sitting in your pantry. Plus, it’s a comforting choice for chilly nights, making it perfect for fall or winter dining. Trust me, you’ll love how it fills your kitchen with a savory aroma that will have everyone rushing to the table!
Rich in nutrients and heartiness, this soup is also a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies. You might even get your family to enjoy cabbage when they see it simmering in delicious beef broth! Let’s dive into why this soup deserves a spot in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
This Hearty Cabbage Soup combines comfort with simplicity. It’s like a warm bowl of nostalgia on a cold day, and you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up. The ground beef adds a savory richness, while the cabbage melts into tender, sweet bites as it simmers. Plus, it’s loaded with vegetables, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
You’ll love how quickly this soup comes together, perfect for busy weeknights. And because it’s packed with hearty ingredients, it warms your soul and your belly! Whether you’re in need of a meal-prep win or just want something comforting, this soup has got you covered.
Benefits:
- Quick and Easy: Comes together in just under an hour.
- Pantry-Friendly: Use ingredients often found in your kitchen.
- Meal Prep Hero: Great for lunch or dinner leftovers.
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vegetables and protein.
- Customizable: Tweak ingredients to fit dietary needs or preferences.
Ingredients for Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds protein and a rich flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional): Helps sauté veggies, adding extra depth.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Sweet and aromatic base for flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a wonderful, fragrant punch.
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped: Melts down to add heartiness and nutrients.
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced: Adds natural sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: For crunch and flavor balance.
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Juicy and tangy for brightness.
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste: Thickens the soup and enhances the flavor.
- 6 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred): Serves as the flavorful base.
- 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Standard seasoning for taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a wonderful, earthy aroma.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: For a mild smoky depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Complements the earthiness of the cabbage.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of spice.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuses depth during simmering.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and zest.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Brings brightness to the soup.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, vibrant touch to finish.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below!
How to Make Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
Phase 1 – Prep
- Gather and chop all your vegetables: onion, garlic, cabbage, carrots, and celery.
- Measure out your spices and canned ingredients to keep nearby.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onions until they’re translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic, ground beef, salt, pepper, and the spices. Cook until the beef is browned.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and bay leaves.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 30 minutes until all veggies are tender.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Enjoy with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Swap it Up: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option!
- Browning Perfection: Brown the beef well for a deeper flavor; don’t rush this step.
- Storage Tip: This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Use airtight containers for best results.
- Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some peas or green beans for more texture and flavor.
- Make it Spicy: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is rushing through browning the beef. If you don’t let it sear enough, the flavor can be dull. Take your time here; it’s worth it!
Another pitfall is adding too much salt at the start. Ground beef and broth can be salty, so wait until the end to taste and adjust.
Lastly, forgetting to remove the bay leaves before serving can leave a bitter taste. Make sure to fish them out after simmering!
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: No dairy ingredients make it suitable for those avoiding lactose.
- Add Heat: For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
- Herbal Twist: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before serving.
- Easy Options: Make this soup on the stovetop, in an Instant Pot, or an air fryer if you’re feeling adventurous.
How to Serve Hearty Cabbage Soup
Best Pairings: Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Toppings & Garnishes: Add a dollop of sour cream or some shredded cheese on top for extra richness. Drink Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of red wine or a refreshing lemonade!
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days in airtight containers.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just note that the cabbage might lose some texture when thawed.
Reheating
Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave in a covered bowl for about 4-5 minutes, stirring midway.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, you can add frozen cauliflower for more veggies, just cook it until tender.
How to make it extra creamy without cream?
Blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in for a creamy texture!
Can I double it?
Absolutely! Just make sure your pot is large enough to hold the ingredients.
How to fix a too-thick soup?
If your soup is too thick, add a little hot water or broth to thin it out.
Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is a comforting dish that brings lovely flavors together while being easy and nutritious. So gather your ingredients and dive into this delightful recipe. Don’t forget to rate and share your thoughts or try out more of our delicious soup recipes!
Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
Ingredients
Method
- Gather and chop all your vegetables: onion, garlic, cabbage, carrots, and celery.
- Measure out your spices and canned ingredients to keep nearby.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onions until they’re translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic, ground beef, salt, pepper, and the spices. Cook until the beef is browned.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and bay leaves.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 30 minutes until all veggies are tender.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Enjoy with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.