How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup Fast

If you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that comes together quickly, this Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup is your new best friend. Packed with hearty flavors, fresh vegetables, and savory beef, it’s the perfect recipe for a satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you want a quick lunch or a wholesome dinner, this soup combines simple ingredients into a delicious bowl that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it fits perfectly into busy schedules without sacrificing flavor.
• Nutritious and filling: Protein-rich ground beef combined with fiber-packed cabbage makes this soup both satisfying and healthy.
• Budget-friendly: Affordable ingredients you likely already have make this a wallet-friendly meal solution.
• Versatile comfort food: Adapt it with your favorite spices or extra veggies to suit your cravings.
• Great for leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple, clean ingredients, each contributing to a balance of texture, flavor, and wholesome satisfaction. Fresh cabbage adds crunch and a subtle sweetness, while ground beef brings hearty, meaty depth. Combined with aromatic herbs and spices, this soup delivers big taste with minimal fuss.

• Ground beef (lean): Provides rich protein and a savory base for the soup’s flavor.
• Green cabbage: Adds texture, nutrition, and a mild, earthy sweetness.
• Onion: Builds a flavorful foundation with its natural sweetness and aroma.
• Garlic cloves: Enhances the savory notes with a fragrant punch.
• Carrots: Bring a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Beef broth or stock: Creates a rich, meaty liquid that ties everything together.
• Diced tomatoes: Add acidity and depth, balancing the richness of the beef.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing and adds a light fruity flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Essential to season and elevate every ingredient.
• Optional herbs (thyme, bay leaves, or paprika): Customize the flavor profile easily.

Variations for Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup

One of the best parts about this soup is how adaptable it is. Whether you want to alter it for dietary needs or swap ingredients based on what’s on hand, these variations let you have a new experience each time without extra effort.

• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Low-carb option: Skip the carrots and tomatoes and add more cabbage or zucchini instead.
• Vegetarian twist: Replace ground beef with mushrooms or lentils for a meatless version.
• Extra greens: Stir in chopped spinach or kale near the end of cooking for more nutrients.
• Smoky flavor: Use smoked paprika or add cooked bacon bits for depth.

How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup

Step 1: Prepare your ingredients

Chop the cabbage, dice the onion and carrots, and mince the garlic so everything is ready. Opening canned tomatoes and prepping broth saves time while cooking.

Step 2: Brown the ground beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the vegetables

Add onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and the carrots start to soften, releasing their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Add cabbage and liquids

Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth. Mix well to combine, then season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs.

Step 5: Simmer the soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and the cabbage soften perfectly without losing its texture.

Pro Tips for Making Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup

• Use lean ground beef: Keeps the soup from becoming greasy and heavy.
• Don’t skip browning: Searing beef properly builds savory depth of flavor.
• Cut cabbage evenly: Ensures uniform cooking and pleasant texture.
• Simmer uncovered: Helps reduce and thicken the soup naturally.
• Adjust seasoning last: Salt and pepper balance flavors best at the end.

How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chopped green onions adds a burst of color and freshness to each bowl. A dollop of sour cream or a few shreds of shredded cheddar can add creamy richness if you like.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful broth. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables complement the hearty soup well.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the soup in bread bowls for a rustic experience or ladle it over steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting twist. Garnish with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen and improve after resting overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat to preserve the texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken are great leaner alternatives and give the soup a lighter flavor while keeping it hearty.

Is this soup suitable for a low-carb diet?

Absolutely. To make it low-carb, simply remove carrots and tomatoes or use low-carb substitutes like zucchini or additional cabbage.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños during the sautéing stage to infuse heat without overpowering the other flavors.

Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours for tender, melded flavors.

What’s the best way to reheat without losing quality?

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often. Adding a bit of broth or water helps maintain the soup’s consistency.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup is truly a weeknight game-changer. With simple ingredients, fast prep, and cozy flavors, it’s a dish you’ll want to keep coming back to. Give it a try and enjoy a wholesome bowl of warmth and comfort anytime!

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