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Healthy Cabbage Ground Beef Soup

Featured in: Warm and Comforting Bowls

Wholesome and hearty, this dish combines savory ground beef, sweet cabbage, and diced tomatoes simmered in a rich beef broth. Infused with bold seasonings like paprika, oregano, and thyme, each spoonful delivers warmth and comfort. Optional celery or zucchini add texture, while a splash of apple cider vinegar brightens the flavor. Perfect for a nourishing lunch or weeknight dinner, it’s easy to make and packed with nutrition for the whole family.

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Updated on Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:09:13 GMT
A bowl of soup containing cabbage and ground beef. Pin it
A bowl of soup containing cabbage and ground beef. | myhomemaderecipe.com

This hearty cabbage and ground beef soup quickly became my answer to chilly nights and busy days when I need something wholesome yet comforting. Every bowl is packed with veggies and plenty of flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. Nutritious and filling this soup brings together tender cabbage savory ground beef and simple spices for a cozy family meal.

One winter evening I threw together what I had in my fridge and this soup was born. Everyone asked for seconds and now it is on regular rotation especially when I want something hearty but not complicated.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef 80 20: Chosen for rich flavor and perfect balance of texture Select freshly ground beef from a trusted source for best result
  • Olive oil or butter: Brings out savory notes and helps brown beef Use cold pressed olive oil or real butter for depth
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic creates a strong aromatic foundation Look for firm cloves with no green sprout
  • Onion: A must for sweetness and all around flavor Go for yellow or white onion for more savory results
  • Chopped cabbage: The star of the soup Look for a head with crisp tight leaves and no brown spots
  • Diced tomatoes: Adds a tangy brightness to balance the richness Choose a can with no added sugar and quality tomatoes
  • Beef broth or bone broth: Brings all flavors together and boosts nutrition Try to use homemade or low sodium broths
  • Water: Needed for perfect consistency Adjust to your preferred thickness
  • Paprika: Gives a warm color and gentle kick Smoked paprika adds more flavor if desired
  • Dried oregano and thyme: Classic soup herbs Use dried for convenience but crush them between your fingers to release extra flavor
  • Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings Adjust to taste
  • Red pepper flakes: Optional for gentle heat Sprinkle them sparingly if you like a little spice
  • Chopped celery or zucchini: Optional and great for extra crunch or sneaking in more veggies Go for firm fresh pieces
  • Tomato paste: Optional but deepens the tomato richness Use good quality paste for robust taste
  • Apple cider vinegar: Just a splash brightens the flavor and ties everything together Choose raw unfiltered vinegar for the healthiest option

Instructions

Brown the Beef:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and break it up using a spoon. Sauté until richly browned and little crispy bits begin to form on the pan. Add garlic and onion and continue cooking for about two minutes until fragrant and onions turn golden. If there is extra fat spoon most of it out but leave a little for added flavor.
Add Veggies and Seasonings:
To the pot add cabbage chopped tomatoes beef broth and water. Stir in paprika oregano thyme salt pepper and red pepper flakes if using. Increase the heat to bring everything to a gentle boil. Once bubbling reduce the heat to low so the soup simmers uncovered for about twenty five to thirty minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and cabbage to become perfectly tender.
Taste and Adjust:
After simmering taste a spoonful. Add more salt or pepper if needed and splash in a bit of apple cider vinegar to brighten things up. The soup should taste rich savory and slightly tangy from the tomatoes and vinegar.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into generous bowls while hot. For extra richness top with Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil before serving. Enjoy right away while it is steaming.
A bowl of soup with meat and vegetables, including carrots and cabbage, sits on a table. Pin it
A bowl of soup with meat and vegetables, including carrots and cabbage, sits on a table. | myhomemaderecipe.com

My favorite part is the tender cabbage which soaks up all the rich broth. This recipe always reminds me of my grandmother who would make big pots of cabbage soup whenever we came to visit. She believed cabbage brought good luck in the new year and maybe that is why I love making it for my family in winter.

Storage Tips

Let your soup cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to four days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. If you want to freeze it simply pour cooled soup into freezer bags or containers and store for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge then reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef if you want something lighter. Use veggie broth for a vegetarian version swapping in lentils instead of meat for extra protein and heartiness. Fresh tomatoes work well in place of canned in summer while adding extra herbs like parsley or dill brings a bright fresh finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with toasted rustic bread or warm flatbread for a filling lunch. I like to add a handful of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese over the top for a touch of brightness. For an extra cozy meal try pairing it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

Cultural Context

Cabbage and beef soups have roots in many food traditions from Eastern European borscht to Irish stews. They are beloved worldwide for their resourcefulness and nutrition. In my home this soup always signals that cooler weather is here and it is time to gather around the table for a comforting meal.

A bowl of soup with meat and vegetables, including carrots and cabbage, is placed on a dining table. Pin it
A bowl of soup with meat and vegetables, including carrots and cabbage, is placed on a dining table. | myhomemaderecipe.com

Hearty cabbage soup is a delicious way to warm up on cold days and create memories with your family. Its ease and comfort make it a regular part of my kitchen all winter long.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I increase the soup's richness?

Use bone broth instead of regular broth and consider adding a spoonful of tomato paste for deeper flavor.

→ Can I substitute ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well for a lighter option, while ground pork brings a richer flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Let the soup cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ What can I use instead of cabbage?

Chopped kale or spinach can be substituted for cabbage, though the texture and flavor will change slightly.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of your favorite chili powder during the simmering step.

Healthy Cabbage Ground Beef Soup

Hearty blend of cabbage, ground beef, and aromatics. Savory and filling for lunch or dinner.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
45 Minutes
By: Susan

Category: Soups & Stews

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Main

01 450 g ground beef (80/20 for robust flavor)
02 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
03 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
04 0.5 medium onion, diced
05 3 cups chopped green cabbage (approximately ½ medium head)
06 400 g canned diced tomatoes, no sugar added
07 950 ml beef broth, or bone broth for enhanced nutrition
08 240 ml water, adjust amount for preferred consistency

→ Seasonings

09 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
10 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
11 0.5 teaspoon thyme
12 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
13 Salt, to taste
14 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
15 Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)

→ Optional Additions

16 0.5 cup chopped celery or zucchini for extra texture
17 2 tablespoons tomato paste for intensified tomato flavor
18 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar to brighten the dish

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil or butter. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and sauté until thoroughly browned. Incorporate garlic and onion, stirring continuously until aromatic, about 2 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 02

Add chopped cabbage, canned diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water to the pot. Stir in paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until cabbage is meltingly tender.

Step 03

Evaluate seasoning and balance. Adjust salt, pepper, or acidity with apple cider vinegar to achieve a rich, slightly tangy flavor profile.

Step 04

Ladle hot soup into bowls. For enhanced richness, finish each serving with grated Parmesan or an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

  1. For a lower fat content, drain excess grease thoroughly after browning the beef. Incorporate additional vegetables like celery or zucchini for increased fibre and nutrients.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Chef's knife and cutting board

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 215
  • Total Fat: 12 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 8 g
  • Protein: 17 g