Winter’s cold can make you want something warm and filling. That’s why cabbage soup with ground beef is a favorite in many homes. It turns simple ingredients into a cozy meal that warms you up.
This cabbage beef soup is easy to make and full of nutrients. It only takes one pot and under an hour to cook. The lean ground beef and tender cabbage mix to create a delicious flavor that comforts everyone.
Every spoonful of this soup tells a story of home cooking. It’s rich, filling, and made to nourish. It’s great for meal prep or a quick dinner, and it’s sure to be a hit with your family.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Quick and easy one-pot meal
- High in protein and nutrients
- Perfect for cold weather comfort
- Meal prep friendly
- Adaptable to various dietary needs
- Under 40 minutes total cooking time
What Makes Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef a Perfect Winter Meal
Winter is the time for warm, comforting meals. A ground beef cabbage soup is perfect for those cold nights. It’s not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients.
Health Benefits of This Hearty Soup
This soup is great for your health. It has lean protein and lots of veggies. Here’s why it’s good for you:
- High protein content supports muscle health
- Rich in dietary fiber for digestive wellness
- Loaded with essential vitamins and minerals
- Low-calorie option for weight management
Nutritional Value and Dietary Considerations
This soup is full of nutrients. It has 26 grams of protein and only 340 calories. It’s great for many diets.
Nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 7g
Why This Soup Works for Meal Prep
Meal prep is easy with this soup. Make a big batch and enjoy healthy meals all week. It keeps well in the fridge for 7 days and freezes for 3 months. It’s perfect for those who want healthy, easy meals.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Making tasty cabbage soup recipes begins with picking top-notch ingredients. Your cabbage soup will turn out great with the right mix of fresh parts. These parts boost flavor and health.
Core Ingredients for Your Soup
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 4 cups chopped green cabbage
- 2 cups chopped yellow onions
- 1.25 cups chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
Great cabbage soup recipes start with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Lean ground beef adds protein, and veggies bring vital nutrients and flavor.
Seasoning Essentials
| Seasoning | Amount |
|---|---|
| Light Brown Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Smoked Paprika | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Pepper | 0.5 teaspoon |
| Cayenne Pepper | 0.25 teaspoon |
These seasonings make your cabbage soup special. Each spice is key to creating rich flavors that will excite your taste buds.
Liquid and Supplementary Ingredients
- 15 ounces no-salt-added tomato sauce
- 4 cups unsalted chicken broth
- 0.25 cup medium-grain brown rice
Choosing the right liquids and extra ingredients keeps your cabbage soup just right. It will be a filling, enjoyable meal for all.
Kitchen Equipment and Preparation Tips
Making a tasty keto cabbage soup needs the right tools and smart prep. Whether you’re experienced or new to cooking, the right gear makes it easy.
Required Cooking Tools
To make the best keto cabbage soup, you’ll need a few key tools:
- 6-quart slow cooker or large Dutch oven
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Food processor (optional but recommended)
Time-Saving Preparation Techniques
Make your healthy cabbage soup prep faster with these tips:
- Use pre-shredded cabbage to save chopping time
- Prep veggies ahead and store in sealed containers
- Use a food processor for quick chopping
- Brown ground beef in batches to save time
Storage Container Recommendations
Storing your keto cabbage soup right keeps it fresh. Get these containers:
- Glass meal prep containers with tight-sealing lids
- BPA-free plastic containers with compartments
- Freezer-safe containers for long-term storage
Pro tip: Pick containers that go from freezer to microwave for easy use. Most keto cabbage soup stays good in the fridge for 4-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making a tasty low carb cabbage soup with ground beef is simple. It’s a quick one-pot meal, ready in about an hour. It’s great for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Stovetop Cooking Method
First, get your ingredients ready. You’ll need:
- 2 lbs lean ground beef (93/7 ratio recommended)
- 3 cups chopped cabbage
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 32 oz beef broth
- 3 tbsp olive oil
Here’s how to make your low-carb cabbage soup:
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or high-quality saucepan
- Brown ground beef over medium-high heat (about 5-7 minutes)
- Add chopped vegetables and sauté for 3-4 minutes
- Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes
- Simmer for 20-25 minutes until cabbage is tender
Alternate Cooking Methods
If you like different cooking ways, you can adjust this recipe:
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 5 hours or high for 2 hours
- Instant Pot: Pressure cook for 15 minutes with quick release
Pro tip: Use low-sodium beef broth to keep sodium levels down. Your soup will serve about 10 people. Each serving has just 320 calories.
Customization Options and Variations
Creating a unique cabbage soup with ground beef recipe lets you make it your own. You can try different ingredients and techniques. This turns a simple meal into a special dining experience.
Protein Alternatives
Your cabbage soup doesn’t have to be just ground beef. Try these protein options for a change:
- Ground turkey (reduces saturated fat by approximately 30%)
- Plant-based crumbles (providing around 14 grams of protein per serving)
- Shredded chicken
- Diced sausage
- Vegan protein alternatives
Vegetable Add-ins
Add more veggies to make your cabbage beef soup healthier and tastier:
- Bell peppers
- Zucchini
- Mushrooms
- Spinach
- Kale
Seasoning Variations
Try different herbs and spices for unique flavors in your cabbage soup:
- Herb blends: Italian seasoning, herbes de Provence
- Spice mixes: Cajun seasoning, taco seasoning
- Fresh herbs: Basil, parsley, thyme
- Global inspirations: Korean gochugaru, Mexican chili powder
Every change can make your cabbage beef soup into something new. Feel free to be creative and find the perfect mix for you!
Storage Tips and Reheating Guidelines
Your beef and cabbage soup recipe needs careful storage to keep its taste and nutrients. Proper storage lets you enjoy this meal many times during the week.
Refrigerator Storage Recommendations
After making your ground beef cabbage soup, follow these important storage tips:
- Store the soup in airtight containers
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Use clean, sealed containers to prevent contamination
Freezing Your Soup
Freezing is a great way to keep your beef and cabbage soup fresh longer. Here are some key freezing tips:
- Cool the soup completely before freezing
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags
- Leave about 1 inch of space at the top for expansion
- Freeze for up to 2 months
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored ground beef cabbage soup, follow these reheating methods:
- Refrigerated Soup:
- Transfer to a pot
- Add 1-2 cups of stock or water
- Heat on medium-low, stirring occasionally
- Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F
- Frozen Soup:
- Thaw in refrigerator overnight
- Reheat using stovetop method
- Add extra liquid if needed
Pro tip: Always check the soup’s consistency and flavor after reheating. You might need to adjust seasonings or add a bit more liquid to restore its original texture.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
Make your easy cabbage soup recipe special with creative serving ideas. These ideas turn a simple meal into a memorable experience. Cabbage soup recipes are versatile, offering many delightful combinations that please your taste buds and meet your nutritional needs.
Turn your cabbage soup into a full meal with these pairing and garnishing tips.
Perfect Side Dish Companions
Pair your hearty soup with these tasty sides:
- Crusty artisan bread for dipping
- Fresh garden salad with light vinaigrette
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- Roasted vegetable medley
Elegant Garnishing Techniques
Boost your easy cabbage soup’s look and taste with these garnishing ideas:
- Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley, dill, or chives
- Dollop of sour cream
- Grated sharp cheddar or parmesan cheese
- Cracked black pepper
- Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
“A well-garnished soup is like a work of art – it delights both the eyes and the palate.”
With these serving suggestions, you’ll make your cabbage soup a hit with family and friends.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Making the perfect healthy cabbage soup can be tricky. If it’s too thick, just add a little water or low-sodium broth. Stir slowly and taste as you go to keep the flavor rich.
Getting the flavors right is key. If it tastes bland, try adding spices like curry powder (start with 1/2 teaspoon). A bit of salt, fresh herbs, or apple cider vinegar can also help. These won’t ruin the soup’s healthiness.
Did you add too much salt? No problem. Add diced potatoes or more veggies like zucchini or spinach. They’ll balance the salt and boost the soup’s nutrition.
Cooking is all about trying new things. With 445 ratings, you’re on the right path. Every try gets you closer to making a great soup. Enjoy the process and keep trying new things with your keto cabbage soup.