Meaty Cabbage Soup

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Meaty Cabbage Soup – Hearty, Savory & One-Pot Comfort

A rich tomato-based broth filled with ground beef, tender cabbage, and aromatic herbs—this soup is a cozy classic.

Introduction: A Bowl of Old-Fashioned Comfort

When the weather turns chilly or you’re craving something warm and filling, this Meaty Cabbage Soup delivers. It’s a rustic, one-pot wonder that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Ground beef adds richness, cabbage brings texture and nutrition, and the tomato-herb broth ties it all together.

This soup is inspired by old-fashioned recipes that rely on simple ingredients and slow simmering for deep flavor. It’s budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this soup so satisfying:

Protein:

  • Ground beef (1 lb)
    Adds savory depth and hearty texture. Use lean or regular depending on preference.

Vegetables:

  • Green cabbage (½ head, chopped)
    Becomes tender and sweet as it simmers.
  • Onion (1 small, diced)
    Adds aromatic base and subtle sweetness.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
    Boosts flavor and warmth.
  • Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14–15 oz)
    Adds acidity and body to the broth.

Broth & Flavor:

  • Beef broth (4 cups)
    Forms the savory base—use low-sodium if preferred.
  • Tomato paste (1 tbsp)
    Adds richness and deep tomato flavor.
  • Paprika (1 tsp)
    Adds warmth and subtle smokiness.
  • Dried thyme (½ tsp)
    Earthy and aromatic.
  • Oregano (½ tsp)
    Adds herbal depth.
  • Salt & pepper (to taste)
    Essential for balance.
  • Olive oil (1 tbsp)
    Used for sautéing and adds richness.

Optional Add-Ins: Bay leaf, red pepper flakes, or a splash of vinegar for brightness.

Equipment Needed

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add 1 lb ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned.

Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add:

  • 1 small diced onion
  • 2 minced garlic cloves

Sauté for 2–3 minutes, until:

  • Garlic is fragrant
  • Onion is translucent

Step 3: Add Seasonings & Tomatoes

Stir in:

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp thyme
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 can diced tomatoes

Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Add Broth & Cabbage

Pour in:

  • 4 cups beef broth

Add:

  • ½ head green cabbage, chopped

Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce heat to low.

Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until:

  • Cabbage is tender
  • Flavors are well blended

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls and serve warm.

Garnish with:

  • Fresh parsley
  • Cracked pepper
  • A sprinkle of Parmesan (optional)

Yields:

  • 6 servings

Presentation Tip: Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Meal prep lunches
  • Cozy winter meals
  • Budget-friendly family meals

Pair with:

  • Rustic bread or cornbread
  • Simple green salad
  • Pickles or sauerkraut

Tip: Add a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for extra richness.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Cabbage & Potato Soup

Add diced potatoes for extra heartiness.

Spicy Kick

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Garlic Lover’s Version

Double the garlic and add roasted garlic cloves.

Vegetarian Version

Use lentils or plant-based meat and veggie broth.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.

Tip: Soup thickens as it sits—add broth when reheating if needed.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 6)

  • Calories: ~280
  • Protein: ~20g
  • Carbohydrates: ~12g
  • Fat: ~16g
  • Sugar: ~5g
  • Sodium: ~600mg
  • Fiber: ~3g

This soup is:

  • Hearty and savory
  • Nutritious and filling
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

This Meaty Cabbage Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients, slow simmering, and cozy comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, it’s guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.

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