Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup

When the air turns crisp and the craving for warmth strikes, nothing beats a bowl of comforting soup. This Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup is exactly that – a soulful, satisfying meal packed with vibrant vegetables and savory beef, ready to become your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup

This isn’t just any soup; it’s a culinary embrace that brings joy to every spoonful. Here’s why it’ll quickly earn a spot in your recipe rotation:

• Effortlessly Delicious: Simple steps lead to profound, slow-simmered flavors.
• Wholesome & Nutritious: Bursting with fresh vegetables and lean protein for a balanced meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with accessible, affordable ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd.
• Quick to Prepare: From prep to table in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Freezer-Friendly: An ideal candidate for meal prepping, ensuring cozy meals are always on hand.
• Customizable Comfort: Easily adapt the vegetables or spices to suit your family’s preferences.
• A Hug in a Bowl: Provides warmth and satisfaction, making it the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients Needed for Your Cabbage and Beef Soup

Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards a truly magnificent soup. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some tips for choosing the best quality:

• 1 lb (450g) Lean Ground Beef: Opt for 90/10 or 85/15 for great flavor without excess grease.
• 1 Large Onion, Chopped: A yellow or white onion works beautifully, providing a sweet aromatic base.
• 2 Medium Carrots, Peeled and Sliced: Look for firm, bright orange carrots for sweetness.
• 2 Celery Stalks, Chopped: Crisp, green celery adds a fresh, earthy note.
• 1/2 Head Green Cabbage, Chopped: Choose a firm, dense head of cabbage.
• 1 Can (14.5 oz / 411g) Diced Tomatoes, Undrained: Fire-roasted diced tomatoes can add an extra layer of flavor.
• 6 Cups (1.4 Liters) Beef Broth: Low-sodium beef broth allows you to control the salt content.
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme: Fresh thyme can also be used; about 1 tablespoon, chopped.
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder: Or 2-3 cloves fresh garlic, minced, for a more pungent flavor.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper to Taste: Season generously as you build the layers of flavor.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Slow Cooker Cabbage and Beef Stew – A hearty, hands-off meal combining tender beef and crisp cabbage.

Essential Equipment for This Hearty Soup

Having the right tools makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, especially when simmering a delicious soup.

• Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: This is a must-have for browning the beef and simmering all the ingredients evenly. Its heavy bottom prevents sticking.
• Slotted Spoon: Essential for draining excess fat from the ground beef.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For efficient and safe vegetable preparation.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: To accurately measure your seasonings and liquids.

Recipe Overview for Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup

Here’s a quick snapshot of what to expect with this warming meal:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 generous servings
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions to Craft Your Ground Beef Cabbage Soup

Let’s dive into creating this satisfying soup, layer by layer, bringing out the best flavors in every ingredient.

1. Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

   1. Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   2. Add 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef and 1 chopped onion. Brown the beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink and the onion is softened and fragrant, about 7-8 minutes.
   3. Carefully drain any excess fat from the pot using a slotted spoon, leaving behind only the delicious browned bits. This step is crucial for a non-greasy soup!

2. Step 2: Sauté the Base Vegetables

   1. Add the 2 peeled and sliced carrots and 2 chopped celery stalks to the pot with the browned beef and onion.
   2. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften slightly and their vibrant colors intensify.

3. Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

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   1. Stir in the 1/2 head chopped cabbage, 1 can (14.5 oz / 411g) diced tomatoes (undrained), 6 cups (1.4 Liters) beef broth, 1 tsp dried thyme, and 1 tsp garlic powder.
   2. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
   3. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
   4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. The cabbage will soften and become translucent.
   5. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want a little more salt or pepper to perfectly balance the flavors.

4. Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

   1. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

CHECK OUT: Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet – All the classic flavors of cabbage rolls, deconstructed into an easy one-pan meal!

Tips for Success with Your Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup

Elevate your soup game with these expert suggestions for an even more flavorful experience.

• Deeper Beef Flavor: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce (1-2 tablespoons) along with the broth for an umami boost.
• Layering Flavors: Don’t rush browning the beef and softening the aromatics. This builds the foundational flavor of your soup.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill before serving brightens the soup and adds a lovely aroma.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings. Broth brands vary in sodium content.
• Prevent Overcooking Cabbage: If you prefer a firmer bite, add the cabbage about 15 minutes into the simmering process.

Variations & Substitutions for This Hearty Cabbage Soup

This versatile soup is a canvas for your culinary creativity! Feel free to mix and match to your dietary needs or flavor preferences.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a gentle kick.
• Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, potatoes (add with carrots), or a handful of spinach (stir in at the very end) are excellent additions.
• Grain Boost: Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked brown rice or barley during the last 10 minutes of simmering for extra heartiness.
• Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free. Ensure your beef broth is gluten-free if needed.

Serving Suggestions for Your Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup

This robust soup is a meal in itself, but a little accompaniment can make it extra special.

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty sourdough or a baguette is perfect for soaking up every last drop.
• Cornbread: A slice of fluffy cornbread offers a delightful texture contrast.
• Simple Green Salad: A light, tangy green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing counterpoint.
• Non-Alcoholic Drink: Pair with unsweetened iced tea, sparkling water with lemon, or a classic root beer.

Health Benefits of This Hearty Soup

Beyond its delicious taste, this Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup offers a fantastic nutritional profile.

• Rich in Fiber: Cabbage and carrots contribute significant dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting fullness.
• High in Protein: Lean ground beef provides essential protein for muscle repair and satiety.
• Vitamin Powerhouse: Packed with vitamins A and C from carrots and cabbage, boosting immunity.
• Low Calorie, High Volume: Enjoy a filling meal without excessive calories, supporting weight management.
• Antioxidant-Rich: Vegetables offer various antioxidants that fight inflammation and support overall health.

Storage & Reheating Your Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup

This soup is perfect for meal prep, tasting even better the next day!

• Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You might need to add a splash of extra broth or water to adjust consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup

Here are some common questions we hear about making a delicious and hearty cabbage and beef soup:

• Can I use different ground meat?

  
  

  

  
  

  Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef. Keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly, and you might need a bit more seasoning.

  
  

• Can I add potatoes?

  
  

  Yes, diced potatoes make a wonderful addition. Add them along with the carrots and celery so they have enough time to cook until tender.

• What if my soup is too thin or too thick?

  
  

  If too thin, you can simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce. If too thick, add more beef broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

• Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

  
  

  Yes, after browning the beef and onion, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until vegetables are tender.

• Is it better the next day?

  
  

  Many people find that the flavors of this soup deepen and meld overnight, making it even more delicious on day two!

  
  

More Delicious Dishes to Savor

If you loved the comforting flavors of this Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup, you’ll definitely want to explore these other savory and satisfying recipes from our kitchen:

• Old Fashioned Beef Stew – Experience classic comfort with tender beef and root vegetables simmered to perfection.
• Cheesy Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole – Enjoy another fantastic combination of beef and cabbage in a cheesy, baked format.
• The Best Chili Recipe – Warm up with a bowl of rich, robust chili, perfect for game days or a cozy evening.

Conclusion

There you have it – a simple yet profoundly satisfying recipe for Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking, and remember to connect with us! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more delicious inspirations.

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