When we’re craving something hearty yet healthy, cabbage soup with ground beef becomes our ultimate comfort food solution. This budget-friendly recipe transforms simple ingredients into a soul-warming meal that’ll have your family asking for seconds. We’ve perfected this easy version that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
There’s something magical about watching tender cabbage meld with savory ground beef in a rich, aromatic broth. This one-pot wonder originated from Eastern European kitchens where resourceful cooks created filling meals from pantry staples. We love how this recipe stretches your grocery budget while providing a nutritious dinner that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day.
Our easy ground beef cabbage soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The best part? It tastes even better the next day, so you’ll have delicious leftovers ready to go.
Ingredients
We’ve organized these simple ingredients by category to make your shopping and prep work effortless. This complete list creates a filling soup that serves 6-8 people generously.
Ground Beef and Seasonings
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Fresh Vegetables
- 1 medium head green cabbage (about 2 pounds), chopped
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed (optional for heartiness)
Broth and Liquids
- 6 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Crusty bread rolls
- Fresh dill sprigs
Equipment Needed
Creating this hearty cabbage soup requires minimal kitchen equipment that most home cooks already have on hand. We recommend gathering these essential tools before beginning preparation to streamline the cooking process.
Large Pot or Dutch Oven
We need a spacious cooking vessel to accommodate all ingredients comfortably. A 6-quart Dutch oven works perfectly for this recipe that serves 6-8 people. The heavy bottom distributes heat evenly and prevents burning while browning the ground beef.
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
Fresh vegetables require proper preparation tools. We use a large cutting board to provide ample workspace for chopping the cabbage head and dicing onions. A sharp chef’s knife makes quick work of slicing carrots and celery into uniform pieces.
Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula
Stirring becomes crucial during the browning process. We prefer wooden utensils because they won’t scratch cookware surfaces and handle high temperatures safely. These tools help break up ground beef into small even pieces while combining ingredients thoroughly.
Basic Measuring Tools
Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time. We keep measuring cups and spoons nearby for portioning seasonings and liquids. Standard kitchen measuring equipment handles all the tomato paste and bouillon measurements this recipe requires.
The beauty of this one-pot meal lies in its simplicity. We don’t need specialized gadgets or expensive equipment to create restaurant-quality soup at home. These basic kitchen essentials handle every step from sautéing vegetables to simmering the final dish.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking our hearty cabbage soup, proper preparation makes the entire process smooth and efficient. Let’s organize our ingredients and prepare each component for the best results.
Preparing the Vegetables
We begin by gathering all our fresh vegetables for systematic preparation. First, we dice our onions into small, uniform pieces that will cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the soup base. Our bell peppers get the same treatment with precise dicing that ensures consistent texture throughout.
Next, we slice our carrots into rounds or half-moons depending on preference, keeping them roughly the same thickness for even cooking. The celery requires dicing into small pieces that complement the other aromatics. We peel and cube our potatoes into bite-sized pieces, making sure they’re uniform so they cook at the same rate.
Fresh cabbage deserves special attention since it’s our star ingredient. We chop it finely or into bite-sized pieces rather than using pre-shredded coleslaw mix, which gives us better flavor and texture control. The garlic gets minced thoroughly to release maximum flavor when we add it to the pot.
Pro tip: We arrange all our prepared vegetables in separate bowls or on a large cutting board, making the cooking process seamless and preventing any missed ingredients.
Seasoning the Ground Beef
Our ground beef seasoning strategy starts before the meat even hits the pan. We gather our essential seasonings: garlic and herb blend, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional Cajun seasoning for those who enjoy extra heat.
When we add the ground beef to our pot with the sautéed onions, we break it up immediately with a wooden spoon or spatula. This ensures even browning and prevents large clumps that cook unevenly. As the beef browns, we incorporate our seasonings directly into the meat rather than waiting until later.
The timing matters here: we season while the beef browns so the spices toast slightly and develop deeper flavors. If we’re using lean ground beef, we monitor for excess grease and drain if necessary to prevent our finished soup from becoming too oily.
We continue cooking until the beef achieves a rich brown color throughout, indicating that the proteins have developed properly and our seasonings have melded with the meat. This foundation creates the savory base that makes our cabbage soup irresistibly flavorful.
Instructions
Transform simple ingredients into this comforting bowl of goodness with our straightforward cooking method. Each step builds layers of flavor that make this easy cabbage soup recipe truly satisfying.
Browning the Ground Beef
We start by heating our large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Next we add the 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pot and break it into small chunks using a wooden spoon for better texture throughout the soup. Cook the beef thoroughly until it’s completely browned on all sides. Drain any excess grease from the pot to prevent our soup from becoming too oily. This foundation step ensures we get maximum flavor from our meat while keeping the soup light and appetizing.
Building the Soup Base
After browning our beef we add the diced green pepper, carrots, and celery to the pot along with our garlic herb seasoning, black pepper, and any optional spices like Italian seasoning. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a couple of minutes to deepen the flavor profile of our soup base. Add the minced garlic and canned diced tomatoes with their juices for richness and acidity. We then add the cubed potatoes and drop in a bouillon cube for extra depth of flavor. Mix everything well to ensure the tomato paste and seasonings are fully incorporated throughout the mixture.
Adding Vegetables and Simmering
Now we add our roughly chopped green cabbage to the pot. Don’t worry if it seems like an overwhelming amount at first because the cabbage wilts down significantly as it cooks. Pour in enough water or broth to cover all the ingredients in the pot. Bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil then reduce the heat to low for gentle simmering. Cover the pot and let everything simmer for about 30 minutes until the potatoes are fork tender and the cabbage has softened completely. We stir occasionally during this time to prevent any sticking and ensure even cooking throughout.
Final Seasoning and Adjustments
After the 30 minute simmer time we taste our soup to check the seasoning levels. Adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings according to your preference for the perfect flavor balance. Keeping the lid on during simmering helps retain moisture and ensures our vegetables cook evenly throughout. For the best texture we recommend slicing the cabbage thinner but you can adjust this based on your personal preference for chunkier or more delicate pieces.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
We recommend using lean ground beef to avoid greasy soup while creating a healthier option for your family. Breaking up the ground beef into small pieces with a wooden spoon while browning creates better texture and ensures even cooking throughout the soup.
Our kitchen testing shows that slicing cabbage thinner or smaller makes for easier eating, though you can adjust the size based on your personal preference. Adding chopped cabbage in batches works best since it reduces significantly in size during the cooking process.
Keeping the lid on while simmering helps cook vegetables evenly and maintains proper liquid levels throughout the cooking time. We find that this technique prevents excessive evaporation and ensures all ingredients cook at the same rate.
Always taste and adjust seasoning after the 30-minute simmering period since vegetables absorb flavors differently during cooking. The soup benefits from this final seasoning adjustment to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
We love that this soup excels at meal prep and reheats beautifully, making it convenient for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Store portions in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for longer storage.
Draining excess grease after browning the ground beef prevents the soup from becoming too oily and maintains the clean flavors of the vegetables and broth. This step makes a noticeable difference in the final texture and taste of your finished soup.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
We love how this cabbage soup with ground beef becomes even more flavorful as it sits, making proper storage essential for enjoying delicious leftovers. The soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 7 days when kept in an airtight container.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover soup in airtight containers once it has cooled to room temperature. We recommend dividing the soup into portion-sized containers for easy reheating throughout the week. The flavors actually improve after a day, making this soup perfect for meal prep enthusiasts.
Freezer Storage
For longer storage, we freeze the soup in double-sealed freezer bags for up to 3 months. This method prevents freezer burn and maintains the soup’s quality. Leave some headspace in containers or bags to allow for expansion during freezing.
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 7 days | Airtight containers |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Double-sealed freezer bags |
Stovetop Reheating
We prefer reheating the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. This method preserves the soup’s texture and prevents overcooking the vegetables.
Microwave Reheating
For individual servings, we microwave the soup in microwave-safe containers until hot. Stir midway through heating for even temperature distribution. This quick method works perfectly for single portions during busy weekdays.
Thawing Frozen Soup
When reheating frozen soup, we thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best texture results. This gradual thawing process maintains the integrity of the vegetables and prevents the soup from becoming watery. Once thawed, follow the stovetop or microwave reheating instructions for optimal results.
Variations and Substitutions
We love how adaptable this cabbage soup recipe becomes with simple ingredient swaps. Our tested variations ensure you can customize this hearty dish to match your preferences and dietary needs.
Different Protein Options
Ground turkey offers a leaner alternative that reduces calories while maintaining protein content. We recommend using 93/7 lean ground turkey for the best texture and flavor balance. Ground chicken works equally well and provides a milder taste that pairs beautifully with the cabbage and seasonings.
Venison creates an exceptionally rich and gamey flavor profile that transforms this soup into a hunter’s favorite. The natural leanness of venison means you won’t need to drain excess fat during browning. Ground pork delivers extra richness and pairs wonderfully with the tomato base and herbs.
Plant-based ground meat substitutes work perfectly for vegetarian versions. We suggest using brands like Beyond or Impossible for the most authentic texture. Season these alternatives slightly more aggressively since they absorb flavors differently than traditional meat.
Vegetable Additions
Mushrooms add an earthy depth that complements the beef beautifully. We dice them into small pieces and add them with the onions for maximum flavor development. Bell peppers contribute sweetness and crunch while providing additional vitamin C.
Celery brings classic soup aromatics and pairs naturally with carrots and onions in our base. Potatoes transform this soup into an even heartier meal while adding satisfying starch content. We cube them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Rice makes this soup more filling and stretches the servings further. Add 1/2 cup of uncooked white rice during the simmering stage for perfect texture. Corn kernels provide sweetness and color while green beans add nutritional value and visual appeal.
Spice Level Adjustments
Cajun seasoning elevates this soup with authentic Louisiana flavors. We start with 1 teaspoon and adjust according to taste preferences. Slap Ya Mama seasoning brings a perfect blend of heat and flavor that enhances the ground beef without overwhelming the cabbage.
Red pepper flakes offer controllable heat levels. Start with 1/4 teaspoon for mild warmth or increase to 1/2 teaspoon for moderate spice. Hot sauce additions work best when stirred in during the final minutes of cooking.
Paprika adds warmth without intense heat while contributing beautiful color. Smoked paprika creates depth and complexity that mimics slow-cooked flavors. For maximum mildness, omit all spicy seasonings and rely on herbs like oregano and thyme for flavor development.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty cabbage soup with ground beef makes an incredibly satisfying meal that we can present in various appealing ways. We recommend serving it piping hot with crusty bread for dipping, which creates the perfect combination of textures and helps soak up the rich, flavorful broth.
Fresh grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top transforms this already delicious soup into something truly special. The sharp, nutty flavor of the cheese complements the savory ground beef and tender cabbage beautifully. We find that a light dusting enhances each spoonful without overwhelming the soup’s natural flavors.
For a complete dining experience, we suggest pairing this soup with a crisp side salad or a light sandwich. The fresh greens provide a nice contrast to the warm, hearty soup, while a simple sandwich rounds out the meal for those with bigger appetites.
This versatile dish works wonderfully as both a comforting starter and a substantial main course. When serving as an appetizer, we recommend smaller portions in warmed bowls. As a main dish, generous servings provide all the protein and vegetables needed for a nutritious dinner.
We love how this soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep and easy weeknight dinners. The flavors meld together beautifully overnight, creating an even richer and more complex taste profile. This characteristic makes it ideal for preparing ahead when entertaining guests or planning weekly meals.
For special occasions, we can elevate the presentation by garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives. These bright green touches add visual appeal and a fresh flavor note that balances the rich, warming soup perfectly.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We love how this cabbage soup recipe transforms into an excellent make-ahead meal that actually improves with time. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, creating an even richer and more satisfying dish than when freshly made.
Refrigerator Storage
Store the cooled soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. We recommend dividing large batches into individual serving portions for easy weekday lunches. The soup maintains its hearty texture and robust flavor throughout the week, making it perfect for meal prep enthusiasts.
Freezer Storage
This recipe freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months when stored in double-sealed freezer bags. We suggest freezing the soup in family-sized portions or individual servings based on your household needs. Label each container with the date and contents to keep track of your freezer inventory.
Preparation Timeline
| Preparation Method | Storage Duration | Best Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator Storage | Up to 7 days | Excellent |
| Freezer Storage | Up to 3 months | Very Good |
| Flavor Development | 24 hours | Peak Flavor |
Batch Cooking Strategy
We recommend preparing a large batch on Sunday for the entire week ahead. The soup provides wholesome, ready-made lunches and dinners that require minimal reheating time. This approach saves both time and money while ensuring you always have a nutritious meal available.
Flavor Enhancement Tips
Allow the soup to rest for at least one day before serving for optimal flavor development. The spices and seasonings blend more completely during this resting period, creating a more complex and satisfying taste profile. We find that the second day consistently delivers the best flavor results.
Conclusion
This cabbage soup with ground beef proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary comfort food. We’ve shown you how a handful of affordable pantry staples transforms into a restaurant-quality meal that’ll have your family asking for seconds.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility and convenience. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick weeknight dinner we’ve got you covered. The make-ahead nature means you can enjoy even better flavors tomorrow.
Don’t hesitate to make this soup your own with our suggested variations. From different proteins to extra vegetables the possibilities are endless. Most importantly this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort – exactly what busy home cooks need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make cabbage soup with ground beef?
This hearty cabbage soup can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The quick cooking time includes browning the ground beef, sautéing vegetables, and simmering the soup until the cabbage is tender and flavors are well-developed.
How many servings does this cabbage soup recipe make?
The recipe serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for families or meal prep. The large batch size helps stretch your grocery budget while providing multiple meals throughout the week.
What kitchen equipment do I need to make this soup?
You only need basic kitchen tools: a large pot or Dutch oven, cutting board, sharp knife, wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula, and measuring cups. No specialized equipment is required, making this recipe accessible to most home cooks.
Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, venison, or plant-based meat alternatives. Each protein option will bring its own unique flavor while maintaining the soup’s hearty texture and satisfying nature.
How should I store leftover cabbage soup?
Store cooled soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or freeze in double-sealed bags for up to 3 months. The soup actually tastes better the next day as flavors continue to develop.
What’s the best way to reheat cabbage soup?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat to preserve texture and flavor. For individual servings, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
What vegetables can I add to customize the soup?
You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, celery, potatoes, or other favorite vegetables to enhance flavor and nutrition. Add heartier vegetables like potatoes early in the cooking process, while softer vegetables should be added later.
How can I make the soup spicier?
Adjust the heat level by adding Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, paprika, or hot sauce. Start with small amounts and taste as you go to achieve your preferred spice level without overwhelming the soup’s base flavors.
What should I serve with cabbage soup?
Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping and garnish with fresh grated Parmesan cheese. Pair with a crisp side salad or light sandwich for a complete meal. Fresh herbs like parsley also make excellent garnishes.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup is excellent for meal prep as it improves in flavor when allowed to rest overnight. Batch cook on weekends for easy weekday meals, and store portions in individual containers for convenient grab-and-go lunches.
