Hearty & Healthy Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
Introduction
This Hearty & Healthy Cabbage Soup is a warm hug in a bowl—full of vibrant veggies, flavorful broth, and satisfying ground beef. It’s light, yet filling, making it great for rainy day comforts, cozy family dinners, or when you need a nutritious reset. Cabbage soup has roots in many traditions as a budget-friendly, wellness-boosting meal, and this version adds meat and soup mix for extra depth and ease.
Pro Tip
Add the Lipton onion soup mix near the end so the salt blends just right—and don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Comfort Combo: Serve with warm cornbread or crusty whole grain bread.
- Fresh Pairing: A side salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Casual Meal: Pair with a light beer or herbal tea for a relaxed evening.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth with extra beans for protein.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a little heat.
- Italian Style: Use Italian seasoning instead of soup mix and add diced zucchini.
- Low-Sodium: Skip the soup mix and use low-sodium broth with fresh herbs and garlic.
Equipment Needed
- Large Soup Pot: Holds all ingredients and allows for even simmering.
- Skillet: For browning and draining the ground beef.
- Cutting Board & Knife: Needed for chopping the cabbage, onions, and celery.
- Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring and combining flavors.
- Measuring Cup: To add water and measure seasonings accurately.
Tips for Success
- Chop your veggies uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Pre-brown the beef and drain it well to avoid greasy soup.
- Bring water to a boil before adding veggies to preserve nutrients.
- Simmer gently—let the flavors marry slowly rather than rushing.
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or soup mix to suit your preference.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s simple, wholesome, and full of flavor. With pantry staples and minimal prep, you’ll have a nourishing and delicious meal ready in no time. It’s flexible to suit various preferences, healthy, family-friendly, and perfect for making-ahead or repurposing leftovers.
Hearty & Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 large cabbage, chopped
- 2 small onions, diced
- 1 large celery stalk, chopped fine
- 2 (14–16 oz) cans stewed tomatoes
- 1 bag Lipton onion soup mix
- 1–2 lbs ground beef
- 6 cups water (approx.)
- Your choice of spices: salt, pepper, garlic, or herbs
Instructions
- Prep the Veggies
In a large soup pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Add cabbage, onions, celery, and tomatoes. Reduce to a simmer. - Cook the Beef
In a skillet, brown 1–2 lbs ground beef until cooked through. Drain excess fat and set aside. - Combine & Season
Add beef to simmering soup. Stir in spices and the onion soup mix. Simmer for a few more minutes to blend flavors. - Taste & Adjust
Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or additional soup mix as desired. - Serve
Pour into bowls and enjoy hot.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Estimated)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
FAQ
1. Can I make this ahead?
Yes—prepare and store in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently the next day.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Freeze in labeled containers up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
4. What can I substitute for onion soup mix?
Use 2 tsp onion powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried herbs instead.
5. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead?
Yes—lean ground turkey or chicken works well. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
