Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef

A warm bowl of Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef simmering on the stove evokes memories of home-cooked meals, filling the air with savory scents. This hearty soup is not only comforting but also quick to prepare, taking around an hour from start to finish. The combination of ground beef, fresh cabbage, and spices melds beautifully, providing depth and flavor.

This recipe is ideal for families looking for a nourishing meal or anyone craving something robust and fulfilling. It’s perfect for chilly nights or meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The ground beef adds a rich, meaty flavor and a satisfying texture.
• Chopped cabbage provides a delightful crunch that softens just perfectly with cooking.
• Rice gives the soup a hearty substance, making it a complete meal.
• It’s a one-pot dish, simplifying cleanup and preparation.

What You’ll Need

Get ready to create this wholesome soup with these easy-to-find ingredients.

For the Soup

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup rice, rinsed
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups diced tomatoes, canned or fresh
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

Using low-sodium broth can reduce saltiness.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey can replace ground beef.
• Quinoa may substitute for rice.
• Fresh herbs can enhance flavor in place of dried.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious pot of cabbage soup.

Sauté onion and garlic

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Brown the beef

Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.

Cook cabbage

Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for about 5 minutes until it begins to soften, stirring occasionally.

Combine ingredients

Add the rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to combine.

Bring to a boil

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the rice and cabbage are tender.

Adjust seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve hot, enjoying the warmth and flavors.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Yes, this soup freezes well for later enjoyment.
Reheat: Microwave or stovetop until hot, about 5-10 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Sauté the onion and garlic until golden for extra depth of flavor.
• Use a mix of fresh and canned tomatoes for added texture.
• Adjust the spice levels by adding red pepper flakes if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Serve with a side salad for added freshness.
• Enjoy as a filling lunch the next day.