Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef – The Ultimate Comfort Food for Cold Days
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup
Looking for a warm, satisfying, and nutritious soup to enjoy on a chilly day? This Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is exactly what you need. Packed with fresh vegetables like cabbage, celery, and onions, combined with the richness of ground beef and the savory flavor of stewed tomatoes, this soup is both comforting and filling.
Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, stretch your grocery budget, or simply enjoy a flavorful homemade meal, this cabbage soup ticks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, loaded with vitamins, and even better the next day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 small onions, finely diced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) stewed tomatoes
- 1 packet of Lipton Onion Soup Mix (any flavor you like)
- 1 bunch celery, chopped finely
- ½ pound ground beef
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional seasonings (highly recommended for flavor):
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika for extra depth)
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (for subtle heat)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep All the Vegetables
Start by thoroughly washing all your vegetables. Chop the cabbage into medium slices (not too fine), dice the onions, and finely chop the celery. Set everything aside in separate bowls for easy cooking later.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Add Onions and Spices
To the browned beef, add the diced onions. Stir and cook for 2–3 minutes until the onions are translucent. Add your optional spices here: garlic powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together so the beef is well-coated in seasoning.
Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
Now, add the chopped celery and cabbage to the pot. Pour in both cans of stewed tomatoes (juice included), then sprinkle in the Lipton Onion Soup Mix. Add enough water (or beef/chicken broth) to just cover the ingredients—this will usually be about 5–6 cups.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the pot to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is soft and all the flavors are well-blended.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup
- Want it thicker? Add some uncooked rice or diced potatoes during the last 30 minutes of simmering.
- Prefer a low-carb version? Leave out the rice and potatoes and use ground turkey instead of beef.
- Need more flavor? Swap water for beef broth for a deeper, more savory taste.
- Like it spicy? Add a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
Health Benefits of This Soup
This recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also:
- High in fiber, thanks to cabbage and celery
- Low in calories, perfect for weight loss or light dinners
- Rich in vitamins A, C, and K
- Easy on the stomach and great for digestion
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with a side of crusty bread, cornbread muffins, or even a simple grilled cheese sandwich. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Storage & Freezing
This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days, and it freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or microwave. Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Herb Pasta
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Is this soup keto-friendly?
Without rice or potatoes, it can fit into a low-carb or keto diet, especially if you use low-carb tomato products.