Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
This Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is comfort food at its finest—warm, filling, and packed with flavor. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that uses simple ingredients like cabbage, onions, celery, and ground beef, simmered together with tomatoes and onion soup mix for a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, meal prep, or when you need a wholesome dish that feeds a crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
Nutritious & filling: Loaded with vegetables and protein.
Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
One-pot meal: Easy cleanup and simple preparation.
Customizable: Adjust spices and add-ins to suit your taste.
Ingredients
1 large head of cabbage, chopped
2 small onions, diced
2 cans (14.5 oz each) stewed tomatoes
1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix (any flavor)
1 bunch celery, finely chopped
1–2 lbs ground beef
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional spices: garlic powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Drain excess fat if necessary.
Season lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Add Vegetables
Stir in diced onions and chopped celery.
Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Build the Broth
Add chopped cabbage, stewed tomatoes (with juice), and onion soup mix.
Pour in 6–8 cups of water or beef broth, depending on how thick you want the soup.
Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender and flavors meld together.
5. Adjust Seasoning
Taste and adjust with additional salt, pepper, paprika, or Italian seasoning.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes.
6. Serve
Ladle hot soup into bowls.
Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for Success
Use lean beef: Helps keep the soup hearty but not greasy.
Broth options: Substitute water with beef or vegetable broth for richer flavor.
Make ahead: Soup tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
Freeze-friendly: Store cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Variations
Low-carb version: Skip the onion soup mix and use fresh herbs for seasoning.
Add beans: White beans or kidney beans make it extra filling.
Vegetarian option: Replace beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Tomato-rich: Add tomato paste for a deeper tomato flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.
Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Top with shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is the kind of recipe that warms you from the inside out. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for feeding family and friends.