Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup Recipe

After a long day, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a hearty, home-cooked meal wafting through the house. Recently, we stumbled upon a recipe that has quickly become a family favorite: Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup. Honestly, I was a little skeptical at first – cabbage soup? Would the kids even touch it? But the promise of a clean, nutritious, and easy-to-make dinner was too enticing to ignore. And let me tell you, this recipe exceeded all expectations. From the moment the onions and garlic started sizzling in the pot, filling the kitchen with their savory scent, I knew we were in for a treat. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward instructions made it a breeze to prepare, even on a busy weeknight. And the taste? Absolutely incredible. The combination of savory ground beef, sweet carrots, tender cabbage, and the rich tomato and broth base created a symphony of flavors that warmed us from the inside out. Even my picky eaters devoured it, asking for seconds (and thirds!). This Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting, nourishing experience that brings everyone to the table with smiles. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s healthy, delicious, and easy to make, look no further. This soup is a guaranteed winner!

Ingredients

This Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup recipe is wonderfully simple, relying on fresh, wholesome ingredients to create a deeply flavorful and satisfying dish. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the soup’s character, from the aromatic base to the hearty protein and the tender, slightly sweet cabbage. Let’s delve into each component and understand why they are essential for this delightful soup.

• 2 Tbsp Avocado Oil: Avocado oil is our preferred choice for sautéing in this recipe due to its high smoke point and mild flavor. It’s a healthy fat that won’t impart any unwanted taste to the vegetables, allowing their natural flavors to shine. You can also substitute with olive oil or another neutral cooking oil if you don’t have avocado oil on hand. The oil is crucial for preventing the vegetables from sticking to the pot and helps to develop their flavors through gentle sautéing.
• 1 Medium Yellow Onion, Chopped: Onions form the aromatic foundation of countless savory dishes, and this soup is no exception. Yellow onions are a versatile choice, offering a balanced flavor that becomes sweeter and milder as they cook. Chopping the onion into small pieces ensures that it cooks evenly and releases its flavors effectively into the soup. Don’t skimp on the onion – it contributes significantly to the overall depth of flavor.
• 3 Large Carrots, Chopped: Carrots add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the soup. They also provide a subtle earthy note and a pleasing texture that complements the other vegetables. We use large carrots to ensure they hold their shape during cooking and don’t become mushy. Chopping them into bite-sized pieces makes them easy to eat and ensures they cook through evenly. Carrots are not just for flavor and texture; they also contribute valuable nutrients to this healthy soup.
• 4 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Garlic is a powerhouse of flavor, adding a pungent and savory dimension to the soup. Minced garlic releases its aromatic oils more readily than chopped garlic, infusing the soup with its characteristic aroma and taste. Four cloves provide a noticeable garlic presence without being overpowering. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two! Fresh garlic is always preferred for its brighter flavor, but in a pinch, you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar.
• 1 lb Ground Beef: Ground beef is the star protein of this soup, providing heartiness and a rich, savory flavor. We recommend using lean ground beef (around 85% lean) to minimize excess grease in the soup while still retaining enough fat for flavor. Browning the ground beef separately before adding it to the soup is crucial for developing a deep, meaty flavor that enhances the overall taste profile. Ground beef not only adds flavor but also makes this soup a truly satisfying and filling meal.
• 4 Large Ripe Tomatoes, Chopped: Ripe tomatoes contribute acidity, sweetness, and a juicy texture to the soup. They break down during cooking, creating a flavorful and slightly thickened broth. Chopping the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces ensures they cook down evenly and integrate well into the soup. Using ripe tomatoes is key for the best flavor; look for tomatoes that are firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a vibrant red color. In the off-season, you can substitute with a 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes, but fresh tomatoes will always provide a brighter and fresher taste.
• 4 Cups Chicken Broth or Beef Broth: Broth forms the liquid base of the soup, bringing all the ingredients together and adding another layer of flavor. Chicken broth offers a lighter and slightly milder flavor, while beef broth provides a richer and more robust taste that complements the ground beef. You can choose either broth depending on your preference or what you have on hand. Using a good quality broth is important for the overall flavor of the soup. Low-sodium broth is recommended to control the salt level and allow you to season the soup to your liking.
• 1 Tbsp Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs, typically including oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. It adds a warm, herbaceous, and savory note that beautifully complements the other flavors in the soup. Italian seasoning is a convenient way to add a complex herbal profile without having to measure out individual herbs. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can create your own blend using equal parts of the dried herbs mentioned above.
• ¼ tsp Black Pepper, to taste: Black pepper adds a subtle spice and enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its brighter and more pungent flavor. Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to taste. Remember, you can always add more pepper, but you can’t take it away!
• Sea Salt, to taste: Sea salt is used to season the soup and bring out the flavors of all the ingredients. Sea salt has a slightly cleaner and more mineral-rich taste compared to table salt. Seasoning with salt is crucial for balancing the flavors and making the soup taste its best. Add salt gradually, tasting as you go, until the soup is seasoned to your liking.
• 1 Large Head Green Cabbage, Chopped (about 6-8 cups): Green cabbage is the star vegetable of this soup, providing a slightly sweet and earthy flavor, as well as a satisfyingly tender texture. Green cabbage is readily available, affordable, and holds up well during cooking. Chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces ensures it cooks evenly and is easy to eat in the soup. A large head of cabbage will yield approximately 6-8 cups chopped, which is the perfect amount for this recipe. Cabbage is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making this soup a healthy and wholesome choice.

Instructions

Crafting this comforting Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is remarkably straightforward. The process involves a few simple steps, each contributing to the final depth of flavor and satisfying texture. Follow these easy instructions, and you’ll have a pot of delicious and nourishing soup ready in under an hour.

1. Sauté Aromatics: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large, thick-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and heated through, add the chopped yellow onion, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatic vegetables, stirring occasionally, for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. Sautéing these vegetables first releases their flavors and creates a flavorful base for the soup. Don’t rush this step; allowing the vegetables to soften slightly will enhance the overall taste.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: Scoot the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pot, creating a clear space in the center. Add the 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Allow the ground beef to brown undisturbed for about 3 minutes on one side. This searing process helps to develop a rich, savory crust on the meat, adding depth of flavor to the soup. Flip the beef and brown for another 2 to 3 minutes on the other side. Once browned on both sides, use a spatula or spoon to break up the ground beef into smaller pieces. Stir the browned ground beef into the sautéed vegetables, combining all the ingredients in the pot.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients and Simmer: Now it’s time to bring all the components of the soup together. Add the remaining ingredients to the pot: chopped ripe tomatoes, chicken or beef broth, Italian seasoning, black pepper, sea salt (start with a generous pinch and adjust to taste later), and the chopped green cabbage. Stir everything well to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the ground beef is mixed with the vegetables and broth.
4. Bring to a Boil and Simmer: Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a full boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes, or until the cabbage has wilted and become tender. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften to the perfect texture. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your cabbage pieces and your desired tenderness.
5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: After simmering for 30 minutes, it’s crucial to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Taste the broth and add more sea salt, black pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed. Remember, seasoning is a personal preference, so adjust until the soup tastes perfectly balanced and flavorful to you. This step is essential for ensuring the soup is seasoned to perfection.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once you’re satisfied with the seasoning and the cabbage is tender, the Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is ready to serve! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy immediately. This soup is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with crusty bread, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flair. Savor the comforting warmth and delicious flavors of your homemade Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup!

Nutrition Facts

This Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy and wholesome meal choice. While the exact nutritional values can vary slightly based on ingredient brands and specific measurements, here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, based on 5 servings per recipe:

• Servings: 5 This recipe is designed to comfortably serve 5 people as a generous main course. Serving sizes can be adjusted depending on appetite and whether you are serving it as a starter or main dish.
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 This is an estimated calorie range per serving. The calorie count can vary slightly based on the leanness of the ground beef used, the type of broth, and the amount of oil. Using leaner ground beef and low-sodium broth will help to keep the calorie count lower.

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving (Estimated):

• Protein: 25-30g Ground beef is a significant source of protein, contributing to the satiety and muscle-building benefits of this soup.
• Fat: 15-20g The fat content comes from the avocado oil and the ground beef. Using leaner ground beef will reduce the fat content. The fats in this soup are primarily healthy fats from avocado oil and naturally occurring fats in beef.
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g Carbohydrates come primarily from the vegetables (onions, carrots, tomatoes, cabbage) and broth. These are primarily complex carbohydrates from vegetables, providing fiber and sustained energy.
• Fiber: 5-7g Cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes are good sources of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Vitamins and Minerals: This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin C (from cabbage and tomatoes), Vitamin K (from cabbage), Vitamin A (from carrots), and various B vitamins and minerals from the beef and vegetables.

Important Note: These are estimated nutritional values and should be considered as a general guideline. For precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. However, regardless of the exact numbers, this Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is undeniably a nutritious and healthy meal option, packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Preparation Time

One of the many appealing aspects of this Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup recipe is its efficiency. It’s a relatively quick and easy meal to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting homemade soup without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes This includes the time needed to chop the onion, carrots, tomatoes, and cabbage, mince the garlic, and gather all the ingredients. With efficient knife skills, you can easily complete the prep work within 10 minutes. Having your vegetables prepped beforehand can further streamline the cooking process.
• Cook Time: 40 minutes This is the time the soup spends cooking on the stovetop, including the initial sautéing of vegetables, browning the ground beef, and simmering until the cabbage is tender. The majority of the cook time is hands-off simmering, allowing you to attend to other tasks while the soup develops its flavors.
• Total Time: 50 minutes From start to finish, including both prep and cook time, this Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is ready in approximately 50 minutes. This makes it a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. The short total time is a major advantage for those seeking a healthy and homemade meal without a lengthy cooking process.

How to Serve

Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is a versatile and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer to keep it simple or add extra touches, here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your soup experience:

• Classic and Simple:
  • On its own: This soup is hearty and flavorful enough to be enjoyed simply as is. Ladle it into bowls and savor the warmth and comforting flavors.
  • With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside a slice of crusty bread, a baguette, or sourdough for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth. The bread provides a satisfying textural contrast and complements the soup perfectly.
• Toppings and Garnishes:
  • Fresh Herbs: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, chopped chives, or dill for a pop of freshness and color. Fresh herbs elevate the visual appeal and add a bright, aromatic note.
  • Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a creamy tanginess that complements the savory soup. It also adds a cooling element and richness.
  • Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan cheese can add a cheesy meltiness and extra flavor dimension. Choose a cheese that complements the savory flavors of the soup.
  • Crispy Bacon Bits: For a touch of smoky flavor and crispy texture, sprinkle crumbled bacon bits over the soup. Bacon adds a delightful savory crunch.
  • Hot Sauce or Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to individual bowls. This allows everyone to customize the spice level to their preference.
• Side Dishes for a Complete Meal:
  • Side Salad: Pair the soup with a simple green salad or a Caesar salad for a light and refreshing contrast. A salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
  • Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing! Serve with a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and satisfying meal, especially on a chilly day.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus make a healthy and complementary side dish. Roasted vegetables add extra nutrients and variety to the meal.
• Serving Occasions:
  • Weeknight Dinner: Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. It’s ready in under an hour and requires minimal effort.
  • Lunch: Pack leftovers for a healthy and satisfying lunch. Soup is a great make-ahead meal for easy lunches.
  • Chilly Days and Nights: Ideal for cold weather, providing warmth and comfort on chilly days and evenings.
  • Casual Gatherings: Great for casual gatherings and potlucks. It’s easy to make a large batch to feed a crowd.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is a delicious and versatile dish that’s sure to please. Experiment with different toppings and side dishes to find your favorite way to enjoy this comforting soup!

Additional Tips

To ensure your Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is absolutely perfect every time, here are five additional tips to elevate your cooking experience and enhance the flavor of your soup:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: When sautéing the vegetables and browning the ground beef, avoid overcrowding the pot. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, resulting in less flavor development. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure the vegetables sauté properly and the beef browns nicely. Proper browning is key to building deep flavors in the soup.
2. Enhance Flavor with Tomato Paste: For a richer and more concentrated tomato flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the fresh tomatoes. Sauté the tomato paste with the vegetables for a minute or two before adding the broth to caramelize it slightly and deepen its flavor. Tomato paste adds umami and depth to the soup base.
3. Customize with Different Vegetables: Feel free to customize this soup with other vegetables you enjoy or have on hand. Diced potatoes, green beans, bell peppers, or zucchini would all be delicious additions. Adding different vegetables can enhance the nutritional value and create variations in texture and flavor.
4. Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup while simmering, or include a chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper with the onions and carrots for a more pronounced heat. Spicy variations can add an exciting kick to the comforting soup.
5. Make it Ahead and Freeze: Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal and freezes beautifully. Prepare a large batch and store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Freezing in portioned containers makes it easy to thaw and reheat for quick meals anytime. The flavors often deepen and improve after being refrigerated or frozen and reheated.

FAQ Section (Ingredients)

Here are five frequently asked questions related to the ingredients in Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup, along with detailed answers to help you make informed choices and substitutions:

Q1: Can I use a different type of cabbage besides green cabbage?

A: Yes, while green cabbage is the most traditional and readily available choice for this soup, you can definitely use other types of cabbage. Savoy cabbage, with its crinkled leaves and milder flavor, would be a good substitute. Napa cabbage, also known as Chinese cabbage, is another option, offering a delicate flavor and tender texture. Red cabbage, while visually appealing, may slightly alter the color of the soup and has a slightly more peppery flavor. For the most authentic flavor and texture, green cabbage is recommended, but feel free to experiment with other varieties based on your preference and availability.

Q2: Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

A: Absolutely! If you’re looking for variations or prefer a different protein, you have several excellent options. Ground turkey or ground chicken are leaner alternatives to ground beef, providing a lighter flavor profile while still offering a hearty protein source. For a vegetarian or vegan version, you can omit the ground beef entirely and add lentils or beans (such as kidney beans or cannellini beans) for protein and substance. If using lentils or beans, add them along with the broth and tomatoes and adjust the simmering time as needed to ensure they are cooked through and tender.

Q3: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?

A: Yes, canned diced tomatoes are a perfectly acceptable and convenient substitute for fresh tomatoes, especially during the off-season when fresh tomatoes may not be at their peak ripeness. Use a 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes, undrained, in place of the 4 fresh tomatoes. Canned tomatoes are often picked at peak ripeness and processed quickly, preserving their flavor and nutrients. For a richer flavor, you can opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes. If using canned tomatoes, you may want to reduce the amount of broth slightly, as canned tomatoes can sometimes be more liquidy than fresh tomatoes.

Q4: What is a good substitute for Italian seasoning?

A: If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, you can easily create your own blend using individual dried herbs. A good substitute for 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning would be to combine: 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, and ¼ teaspoon dried marjoram. These herbs are commonly found in Italian seasoning and will provide a similar herbaceous and savory flavor profile to your soup. You can adjust the proportions slightly based on your personal preference.

Q5: Can I use water instead of broth?

A: While you can technically use water as the liquid base for this soup, it is highly recommended to use chicken broth or beef broth for a much richer and more flavorful result. Broth adds depth of flavor, umami, and complexity that water simply cannot provide. If you must use water, consider adding extra seasoning, such as bouillon cubes or soup base, to boost the flavor. Using broth significantly elevates the overall taste of the soup and is a key ingredient for achieving a truly delicious and satisfying outcome.

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