On a chilly evening, when the world outside is painted with frosty hues, few things bring comfort quite like a steaming bowl of hearty cabbage soup with ground beef. Just imagine the warm aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with the rich scent of simmering vegetables and tender meat—it’s a memory that feels like a hug from the inside. This delightful dish not only nourishes the soul but also fills your home with inviting warmth.

After a long day, finding a recipe that balances ease and flavor can feel challenging. This comforting soup comes to the rescue, transforming simple ingredients into a cozy meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Bursting with protein and fiber, it’s a satisfying choice for everyone at the table, from kids to adults.

Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table or wanting something nutritious to enjoy later, this cabbage soup is here to elevate your winter evenings. Join me as we dive into a bowlful of deliciousness that’s as delightful to make as it is to savor!

Why Will You Love This Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup?

Comfort in Every Bite: This soup brings together flavors that warm the heart and soul.
Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein-rich ground beef and fiber from cabbage, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.
Versatile Cooking: Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for a unique twist.
Time-Saving Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time! This soup stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, perfect for busy weeks.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this savory, soothing bowl of goodness, making it a surefire hit at the dinner table.

For an extra tasty pairing, serve with some crusty bread to soak up every drop of the delicious broth!

Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup Ingredients

• Get ready to create a cozy masterpiece with these simple ingredients!

For the Soup Base

Ground Beef – provides protein and richness; try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Yellow Onion – enhances the flavor base; dice finely for even cooking.
Garlic – offers aromatic flavor; substitute with garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
Celery – adds a savory crunch; optional, but recommended for flavor depth.

For the Vegetables

Green Cabbage – a bulk ingredient packed with fiber; savoy cabbage can be used for a different texture.
Green Pepper – adds sweetness and crunch; swap with red or yellow bell pepper for variation.
Carrots – contributes sweetness and nutrition; use fresh or frozen as needed.
Diced Tomatoes (canned) – adds moisture and acidity; choose low-sodium varieties for a healthier option.
Russet Potatoes – offers heartiness and texture; sweet potatoes are a great alternative for a healthier twist.

For Flavoring

Herb Seasoning (e.g., Slap Your Mama seasoning) – enhances flavor complexity; experiment with fresh herbs like thyme for added depth.
Tomato Paste – deepens flavor; adjust according to your taste preference.
Knorr Beef Bouillon – provides depth of flavor; vegetable bouillon works for a vegetarian version.
Water/Chicken or Beef Broth – the soup’s base liquid; using broth enriches the flavor profile.

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to a delicious bowl of comforting ground beef and cabbage soup that will warm both your heart and home!

How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup

Brown the Beef: In a Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef, cooking it thoroughly until it turns a beautiful brown color. This adds depth of flavor and richness to your soup.
Sauté the Veggies: Next, incorporate the diced yellow onion, green pepper, sliced carrots, and celery. Season with minced garlic and herb seasoning. Sauté until the vegetables begin to soften and release their aromatic scent—about 5-7 minutes.
Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste, letting it cook for about 2 minutes. This helps blend the flavors together, creating a rich base for your soup.
Mix in the Potatoes: Add the chopped russet potatoes, making sure to mix them in thoroughly. They will add heartiness to your soup, making it even more comforting.
Combine Tomatoes and Garlic: Pour in the diced tomatoes and add some minced garlic for extra flavor. Mix well to ensure everything is coated in delicious juices.
Incorporate Cabbage: Add the chopped green cabbage, stirring it in gradually if needed. The cabbage will wilt down, adding a lovely texture and fiber to the dish.
Add Broth and Simmer: Mix in the Knorr beef bouillon and your choice of water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.
Season to Taste: Before serving, be sure to taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. This step is crucial to elevate the flavors.

Optional: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for an extra creamy finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup

Don’t Overcook Cabbage: To maintain a nice texture, avoid overcooking the cabbage. It’s best when it’s tender but still has a slight crunch.
Salt Sensitivity: Adjust the saltiness based on the beef bouillon you use, as some brands can be quite salty. Taste and season gradually!
Mixing is Key: Stir the ingredients thoroughly at every stage of preparation to ensure even flavor throughout the ground beef and cabbage soup.
Meal Prep Smartly: Cool the soup completely before storing in airtight containers. It freezes well for up to 3 months, making it ideal for busy weeks.
Texture Variations: If you want a different mouthfeel, consider adding diced zucchini or green beans for added texture and nutrition.
Herb Experimentation: Feel free to play with fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves to add more complexity to the flavor profile of your soup.

Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef Variations

Feel free to tailor this comforting soup to your taste and dietary needs with these creative twists!

Dairy-Free: Swap out any cheese toppings or cream for a splash of coconut milk for richness without the dairy. It adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the soup’s flavor.
Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with a mix of black beans and lentils for a protein-packed, hearty version. The textures will still create a fulfilling dish loved by everyone!
Extra Veggies: Toss in a handful of chopped kale or spinach towards the end of cooking for a nutrient boost! The vibrant greens not only add health benefits but a beautiful pop of color.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during cooking for that fiery flavor that warms you up from the inside out.
Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter and nutrient-rich alternative. They blend beautifully with the other ingredients!
Herb Infusion: Introduce fresh thyme or rosemary during the simmering step for a fragrant herbaceous note that elevates the entire dish.
Citrus Zest: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving brings a refreshing zing, cutting through the richness and brightening the overall taste.
Broth Variety: Exchange beef broth for vegetable or chicken broth to explore different flavor profiles—all while keeping it comforting and delicious!

What to Serve with Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup?

Cozy up your dinner table with perfect pairings that complement the rich flavors of this heartwarming soup.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this bread soaks up every drop of the savory broth, enhancing each comforting bite.
Garden Salad: A refreshing salad adds a crisp, bright contrast to the warm soup, balancing the comfort food experience beautifully.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks provide a delightful twist, offering additional flavor while you enjoy your soup.
Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and indulgent, the potatoes create a luxurious side that pairs perfectly with the soup’s heartiness. Just imagine the combination of textures!
Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable not only adds color but also provides a nutritious, crunchy counterpart that’s great for a well-rounded meal.
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Slightly charred, these flavorful sprouts bring a delicious crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender soup ingredients.
Apple Pie for Dessert: Cap off the meal with a warm slice of apple pie, creating the perfect sweet ending to a cozy night in.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine complements the rich flavors of the soup, making for a heartwarming, comforting dinner experience.

How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup

Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: This hearty ground beef and cabbage soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Divide into portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. A splash of broth can help revive the texture.

Airtight Storage: For best results, use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and keep your soup deliciously flavorful!

Make Ahead Options

These Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (like onion, green pepper, and carrots) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the rest of the soup components and bring to a boil. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table with minimal effort, ensuring that each bowl is just as comforting and flavorful as if you had made it from scratch that day!

Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when choosing cabbage?
When selecting cabbage, choose heads that are firm and heavy for their size. Look for vibrant green leaves with no dark spots or wrinkles. These indicators suggest freshness. If you see dark spots all over, it may be past its prime.

How do I store leftover cabbage soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness. If you’re not planning to eat it within that time, freezing is a great option.

Can I freeze cabbage soup?
Absolutely! This ground beef and cabbage soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Divide it into portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving extra space at the top for expansion. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stovetop.

What can I do if my cabbage soup is too salty?
If your soup turns out too salty, don’t worry! You can add more water or low-sodium broth to dilute the saltiness. A couple of diced potatoes can also absorb some salt; just remove them before serving. Stir well and taste until you’re satisfied.

Is this soup suitable for kids?
Very! This cabbage soup is family-friendly and packed with nutritious ingredients that appeal to both kids and adults. The comforting flavors are likely to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or adjust for dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can easily make this soup vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with beans or lentils. Swap the beef bouillon for vegetable bouillon. Always check for any allergies, especially with ingredients like bouillon or canned tomatoes.