This Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is a simple, hearty meal made with tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and a flavorful broth. It’s the kind of one-pot dinner that brings plenty of comfort without requiring a long list of ingredients.

Ready in about 45 minutes, it’s easy to prepare, naturally low in carbohydrates, and perfect for a cozy family dinner or make-ahead lunch.

 

Why You’ll Love This Soup

– Easy one-pot meal: Everything cooks in one pot, so cleanup is simple.
– Low-carb comfort food: Cabbage adds plenty of texture without pasta or potatoes.
– Budget-friendly: Uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find.
– Great for leftovers: The flavors become even better after a night in the fridge.

 

Recipe Details

– Servings: 6–8
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Cooking Method: Stovetop
– Course: Main Dish, Soup
– Cuisine: Homestyle

 

Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
– 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
– 1 medium yellow onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium green cabbage, chopped (about 6–7 cups)
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 ½ teaspoons salt, or to taste
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

 

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Brown the Beef: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, season with a little salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Cook the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Add the Seasonings: Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, and cumin. Cook for about 1 minute to release their aroma.

4. Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Add the Worcestershire sauce and remaining salt. Stir well and bring to a boil.

5. Simmer the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage and stir. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the cabbage reaches your preferred tenderness.

6. Taste and Serve: Adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and finish with fresh parsley.

 

Variations & Tips

– Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
– Add more vegetables: Diced celery, zucchini, or bell peppers work nicely.
– Adjust the texture: Simmer a little less for firmer cabbage or longer for softer cabbage.
– Choose your beef: Lean ground beef keeps the soup lighter, while a fattier blend gives it a richer flavor.

 

Storage & Reheating

Let the soup cool before transferring it to airtight containers.

– Refrigerator: Store for up to 3–4 days.
– Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
– Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming hot. Add a little broth if the soup has thickened.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate it. The flavors will have more time to come together.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey works well, although the soup will have a slightly lighter flavor.

Is this soup suitable for a low-carb diet?

It can fit into many low-carb eating plans. The exact carbohydrate count depends on your ingredients and serving size.

Can I cook it in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the beef with the onion and garlic first, then transfer everything except the parsley to the slow cooker. Cook on Low for about 5–6 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the cabbage is tender.

 

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is an easy, satisfying dinner made with simple ingredients and plenty of homemade flavor. Keep a batch in the fridge for busy days when you want something warm, filling, and ready to enjoy.