When hunger strikes and you find yourself reaching for yet another takeout menu, pause for a moment and picture a steaming bowl of Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup. The first whiff of this comforting dish invites you into a world of flavor, where the savory broth mingles with the sweetness of fresh garden veggies. It’s not only a delight to your taste buds but also a thrifty option that makes the most of your budget—perfect for those lean weeks when groceries seem to vanish too quickly.
After a long day, this soup is the answer to your dinner dilemma. Packed with protein and nutrients, it offers a fulfilling meal that warms your heart and soul. Plus, the best part? It’s quick and easy, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a wholesome dinner without the fuss. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that promises to transform your kitchen into a cozy haven, banishing bland meals for good!
Why will you love Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup?
Comforting warmth: This soup wraps you in a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly evenings.
Budget-friendly: With simple, affordable ingredients, it’s an economical choice for the whole family.
Quick to prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, it fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.
Nutrient-packed: Loaded with protein and fiber, it’s a nourishing option that keeps you satisfied.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs for endless variations!
Crowd-pleaser: Bring everyone to the table; this hearty soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Ground Beef – main protein source, adds heartiness; consider using lean beef to reduce fat content.
• Olive Oil – provides fat for sautéing vegetables; can substitute with canola oil if desired.
• Beef Broth – base for the soup; adds depth of flavor; vegetable broth can substitute for a vegetarian option.
• Water – adjusts soup consistency as needed; use more or less depending on desired thickness.
For the Vegetables
• Carrots – adds sweetness and color; use fresh or frozen as per availability.
• Frozen Seasoning Blend – adds a mix of vegetables typically including onions and peppers for flavor; fresh onions can be used instead.
• Cabbage – main vegetable ingredient; provides texture and nutrition; use green, Napa, or savoy cabbage.
• Frozen Green Beans – adds fiber and color; any other frozen green vegetable like peas can work as a substitute.
• Frozen Corn – sweetness and texture enhancer; canned corn can be used as an alternative.
For the Flavor
• Tomato Soup – provides acidity and richness to the broth; can use crushed tomatoes if unavailable.
• Salt and Pepper – essential seasonings to enhance flavor; adjust according to taste preference.
This Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your dining table! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup
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Brown the Beef: In a large stock pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and drain any excess fat to keep your soup light.
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Sauté the Veggies: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add carrots and the frozen seasoning blend, sautéing until they soften—about 4-5 minutes. Their vibrant colors will start to pop!
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Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded cabbage, frozen green beans, frozen corn, cooked beef, beef broth, tomato soup, and water to the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper, then stir well to combine all those delicious flavors.
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Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat, cover, and let simmer for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the ingredients to meld together, creating a mouthwatering aroma that’ll fill your kitchen.
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Adjust Consistency: After simmering, check the soup thickness. If it seems too thick, add more water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Optional: For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup
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Lean Meat Choice: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the soup hearty without being greasy. It ensures a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor.
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Chop Evenly: For uniform cooking, chop all vegetables, especially fresh ones, into similar sizes. This helps them soften at the same rate in your ground beef and cabbage soup.
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Adjust Thickness: Keep an eye on the soup’s consistency as it simmers. If it thickens too much, stir in extra water gradually to maintain your desired texture.
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Season Last: Always taste and adjust your salt and pepper towards the end of cooking. This way, you ensure the flavors shine without over-seasoning in the beginning!
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Mix It Up: Feel free to experiment! Add in seasonal vegetables you have on hand or herbs for variety in your ground beef and cabbage soup, making it unique with every batch.
Storage Tips for Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup
- Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to prevent steam buildup.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
- Aroma Preservation: To maintain the rich aroma and flavor of your Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup, avoid freezing with delicate herbs or toppings, adding them fresh upon serving.
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup?
Transform your comforting soup into a complete meal with these delightful pairings that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Crusty Bread: The perfect dipping companion, this bread’s crunchy exterior and soft interior complement the soup’s warmth beautifully.
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Rice: Serve it over fluffy white or brown rice for added substance and a delightful texture contrast, making the meal heartier.
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Side Salad: A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing brightness, balancing the hearty flavors of the soup.
Enjoy the contrast of textures and flavors by pairing a warm bread or a fresh salad to elevate your dining experience.
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Garlic Toast: Slathered in butter and garlic, it’s a flavorful addition that enhances the soup’s savory elements with a satisfying crunch.
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Pickled Veggies: A tangy, crunchy side of pickles or kimchi adds a zingy contrast, cutting through the richness of the beef and broth.
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Cheese Croutons: Toasted with melted cheese, these tasty bites offer an indulgent finish that pairs perfectly with the soup’s flavors.
No matter how you choose to pair, these options promise to elevate your comforting bowl of Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup into a memorable family feast!
Variations & Substitutions for Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup
Get ready to personalize your soup with these delightful twists that will tickle your taste buds!
- Turkey Swap: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option that still packs protein and flavor without being too heavy.
- Potato Boost: Add diced potatoes for extra heartiness; they’ll absorb the broth and create a creamy texture as they cook!
- Additional Veggies: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale for a nutrient boost—perfect for elevating this comforting classic!
- Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like thyme or bay leaves while simmering for a new depth of flavor, transforming your soup into a fragrant wonder.
- Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the pot for those who love a bit of heat in their meal; it adds an exciting dimension!
- Different Broths: Experiment with vegetable or chicken broth in place of beef broth for a unique twist that changes the whole complexity of your dish.
- Creamy Touch: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream right before serving for a luscious finish that elevates the entire experience!
- Zucchini Addition: Slice up some zucchini and add it to the mix in the last few minutes of cooking; its subtle taste complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Your Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup can easily become a canvas of flavors, so unleash your creativity and enjoy the comforting process of cooking!
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they are stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop the cabbage and carrots ahead of time, keeping them fresh in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. When you’re prepared to enjoy this comforting soup, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the broth and simmer for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and you’ll achieve just as delicious results, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights!
Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of cabbage should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! You can use any variety of cabbage you prefer, but I recommend green cabbage for its mild flavor and texture. Napa cabbage is another great option, as it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked. Avoid cabbage that has dark spots all over, as it indicates spoilage, and choose crisp, fresh heads.
How long can I store leftover Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup?
You can keep your leftover soup in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up, as that helps prevent moisture buildup.
Can I freeze Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup? If so, how?
Very! Freezing is a fantastic way to extend the life of your soup. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Lay the bags flat in the freezer for easy stacking. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat on the stove or microwave until piping hot.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen in this soup?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh vegetables, just chop them evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. I often use fresh carrots, green beans, and corn. Just be aware that fresh vegetables may need to be sautéed a bit longer than frozen ones to achieve the right tenderness.
Is this soup safe for pets?
No, I recommend keeping this soup away from pets. While the ingredients like beef and vegetables are safe for many animals in small amounts, the seasoning, especially salt, can be harmful to pets. It’s best to stick to their special diet for their safety.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
No worries! If you find your Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup has become too thick while simmering, simply stir in more water or beef broth gradually until it reaches your desired consistency. This ensures it stays deliciously hearty and enjoyable, and you can adjust as needed while reheating too!
Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup: A Cozy Family Favorite Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large stock pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and drain any excess fat.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add carrots and the frozen seasoning blend, sautéing until they soften—about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the shredded cabbage, frozen green beans, frozen corn, cooked beef, beef broth, tomato soup, and water to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, then stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat, cover, and let simmer for at least 30 minutes.
- After simmering, check the soup thickness. If it seems too thick, add more water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.