Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef

Introduction

Looking for a hearty, comforting, and healthy meal that’s also budget-friendly? Cabbage soup with ground beef is the answer! This flavorful soup is packed with nutrients, easy to make, and perfect for a chilly evening. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra vegetables into your diet. Read on to discover our delicious recipe and tips for making the best cabbage soup with ground beef.

Main Sections

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with vitamins and fiber from cabbage, carrots, celery, and more.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients, making it a great option for feeding a family on a budget.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward cooking process.
• Comfort Food: Warm and satisfying, perfect for a cold day.
• Versatile: Easily customizable to your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve hot.

Tips and Variations

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, green beans, or potatoes.
• Spice it Up: For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
• Use Different Protein: Ground turkey or Italian sausage can be substituted for ground beef.
• Add Tomato Paste: For a richer tomato flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste along with the diced tomatoes.
• Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prepping.
• Freezing: Cabbage soup freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Low Carb Option: Ensure you are using unsweetened tomato products to minimize carbs.

Health Benefits of Cabbage Soup

• Rich in Fiber: Promotes digestive health and helps you feel full.
• Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Cabbage is packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
• Low in Calories: A healthy and satisfying meal option for weight management.
• Hydrating: The broth helps to keep you hydrated.

Conclusion

Cabbage soup with ground beef is a delicious, nutritious, and affordable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy a hearty and comforting bowl of soup in no time. So, gather your ingredients and start cooking! Enjoy!