Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef

As I stirred the bubbling pot of soup, the aroma of savory beef and sautéed garlic filled my kitchen, promising warmth and comfort with every simmering bubble. Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is a hearty dish that comes together in just about an hour, and it’s a wonderful way to use up cabbage and pantry staples, creating a meal that satisfies both the belly and the soul.

This recipe is perfect for families seeking a nutritious weeknight dinner or anyone looking for an economical meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s ideal for chilly evenings when you need something hearty, and you can easily make it ahead of time; the flavors develop even more if stored overnight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The tender cabbage provides a delightful contrast to the ground beef’s richness.
• It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
• Hearty and filling, it’s perfect for cold nights.
• You can customize the spice level to suit your taste.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create a satisfying cabbage soup.

For the Soup

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup rice, uncooked
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

Substitutions: Use vegetable broth for a lighter option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey for ground beef
• Quinoa instead of rice
• Fresh herbs for dried thyme
• Chicken broth instead of beef broth

How to Make It

Here’s how to whip up a delicious pot of cabbage soup.

Heat olive oil

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

Sauté onion and garlic

Add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Cook ground beef

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Combine ingredients

Stir in chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, beef broth, rice, thyme, and paprika. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the soup

Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked.

Season and serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, you can freeze it for later.
Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium heat for about 10 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Brown the beef well for a deeper flavor.
• Use fresh cabbage for the best texture.
• Allow the soup to sit for a bit before serving; flavors intensify.
• Adjust spices to your preference for a customized taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
• Serve alongside a simple green salad.
• Perfect for meal prep; great for lunchboxes.