Ground Beef Cabbage Soup: The Ultimate 5-Ingredient Comfort Bowl for Cozy Evenings

Name: Ground Beef Cabbage Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

When the air gets crisp and you crave something deeply satisfying yet wonderfully simple, look no further than a classic. This Ground Beef Cabbage Soup is the epitome of comfort food, proving that incredible flavor doesn’t require a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen. It’s a hearty, wholesome meal that warms you from the inside out, making it a perfect weeknight solution. Plus, it’s naturally a Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Soup option, packed with nutrients without sacrificing taste. Get ready to discover your new go-to recipe for effortless deliciousness!

Quick Glance Summary

This heartwarming Ground Beef Cabbage Soup is a delightful 5-ingredient meal, perfect for busy weeknights. It combines savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and a rich tomato base for a bowl of pure comfort. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a fuss-free way to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful dinner.

What You’ll Need

This wonderfully simple Ground Beef Cabbage Soup requires just a few staple ingredients to create a hearty and flavorful meal. Here’s what you’ll need for this 5-ingredient comfort:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
1 medium head green cabbage (approx. 2 lbs), cored and chopped
1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups beef broth
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Preparation Instructions

Whipping up this satisfying Ground Beef Cabbage Soup is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a warm and comforting meal that’s also a wonderfully Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Soup option:

Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage begins to wilt and soften.
Combine and Simmer: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is very tender.
Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season generously with salt and black pepper as needed. Ladle hot into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic soup!

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the tomatoes for a subtle kick, or a dash of hot sauce to individual bowls.
Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like carrots, potatoes (diced small), or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Add them with the cabbage.
Swap the Meat: Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
Creamy Touch: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
Herb Power: Experiment with different herbs like bay leaves (remove before serving), thyme, or oregano to alter the aromatic profile.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this Ground Beef Cabbage Soup in a slow cooker?: A: Yes! Brown the beef first. Then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until cabbage is tender.
Q: How long does Ground Beef Cabbage Soup last in the refrigerator?: A: Stored in an airtight container, it will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. It often tastes even better the next day!
Q: Can I freeze this soup?: A: Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Q: What kind of cabbage is best for this recipe?: A: Green cabbage is traditionally used and works wonderfully, becoming tender and slightly sweet when cooked. You could also use savoy cabbage for a slightly milder flavor.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?: A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, assuming your beef broth and diced tomatoes do not contain any added gluten-containing ingredients.

Conclusion

There you have it – a truly magnificent Ground Beef Cabbage Soup that delivers on comfort, flavor, and ease. This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this comforting bowl will quickly become a cherished part of your meal rotation. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of this delicious and incredibly Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Soup, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on a quiet evening.

Recipe Note

For an even richer flavor, let the soup sit for 10-15 minutes off the heat before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen. It’s also excellent for meal prepping as the flavors develop even further overnight.