Make This Easy Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef Tonight!

Introduction

Looking for a meal that’s comforting, filling, and surprisingly healthy? This cabbage soup with ground beef is exactly what you need! Imagine a bowl of steaming soup, packed with tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, and simple veggies, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. It’s like a warm hug on a cold day, but also light enough to keep you feeling good.

This soup is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you just need something cozy and satisfying. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and super easy to make. So, what are we waiting for? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and see why it’s a favorite in so many households!

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup

A Hearty Meal That’s Good for You

Let’s be honest – when you hear “healthy,” you don’t always think “delicious,” right? But this cabbage soup with ground beef is both! The ground beef gives it a rich, meaty flavor, while the cabbage adds a slight sweetness and loads of nutrients. It’s low in calories but high in protein and fiber, making it perfect if you’re trying to eat healthier without feeling deprived.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

One of the best things about this soup? You don’t need fancy ingredients. Everything you need is probably already in your kitchen or easy to grab from the store. Ground beef, cabbage, carrots, onions, garlic, and broth – that’s it! But when these ingredients come together, they create a flavor that’s comforting, savory, and oh-so-satisfying.

Ingredients for Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef

Choosing the Best Ground Beef

Ground beef is the star of this soup, so picking the right one is key. Here’s a quick guide to help you out:

• Lean Ground Beef (90/10): Perfect if you want a healthier option with less fat. It’s still flavorful but keeps the soup light.
• Ground Chuck (80/20): Adds a richer, beefier flavor because of the higher fat content. Just make sure to drain the excess fat.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Want to switch things up? You can easily swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.

The Best Cabbage for This Soup

When it comes to cabbage, you’ve got options! Here are the best types to use:

• Green Cabbage: The classic choice. It’s mild, slightly sweet, and holds up well in soups.
• Savoy Cabbage: Adds a delicate, crinkly texture that works beautifully in this soup.
• Napa Cabbage: For a lighter, more tender bite, Napa cabbage is a great choice.

Basic Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need:

Step-by-Step Recipe for Cabbage Soup with Ground Bee

Preparing the Ground Beef

1. Heat the Pot:
   • In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Brown the Beef:
   • Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes).
   • Tip: Break up the beef with a spoon as it cooks for even browning.
3. Drain the Fat:
   • If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep the soup from getting greasy.

Adding the Cabbage and Veggies

1. Sauté the Veggies:
   • Add the chopped onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the veggies are soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Cabbage:
   • Toss in the chopped cabbage. Stir well to combine with the beef and veggies.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
   • Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the beef broth. Stir everything together.

Simmering to Perfection

1. Season the Soup:
   • Add salt, pepper, and dried herbs like thyme or oregano. Stir to combine.
2. Let It Simmer:
   • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Taste and Adjust:
   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
4. Serve Hot:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with a slice of crusty bread if you like!

Tips to Make the Best Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef

Making a great cabbage soup with ground beef is easy, but these simple tips will help take it to the next level.

How to Add More Flavor

• Layer Your Seasonings:
  Don’t just toss everything in and hope for the best! Season the ground beef while browning, and add a little more seasoning when you add the broth and cabbage. This creates a rich, layered flavor.
• Add a Dash of Worcestershire Sauce:
  Want a bit more depth? A teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce adds a subtle umami flavor that makes the soup even more savory.
• Try Smoked Paprika:
  Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. It pairs wonderfully with the beef and cabbage.
• Fresh Herbs at the End:
  Stir in fresh parsley, dill, or thyme right before serving for a burst of freshness.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

1. Don’t Overcook the Cabbage:
   • Cook the cabbage just until tender. Overcooking can make it mushy and give it a sulfur-like taste.
2. Drain Excess Fat:
   • If you’re using higher-fat ground beef, drain the excess fat after browning. This keeps the soup from becoming greasy.
3. Taste as You Go:
   • Seasoning is everything! Taste the soup throughout the cooking process and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.

FAQs

Why Do You Lose Weight on the Cabbage Soup Diet?

So, why does the cabbage soup diet help you shed those pounds? It’s pretty simple: this diet is low in calories but high in fiber. When you eat a bowl of cabbage soup with ground beef, you’re filling up on nutrients without consuming a lot of calories. The cabbage itself is super low-calorie, and because it’s full of fiber, it keeps you feeling full for longer. It’s like getting a big meal without the big calorie count.

But here’s the catch: a lot of the weight you lose on this diet is water weight, not fat. That means while it’s great for a quick detox or shedding a few pounds fast, it’s not a long-term weight loss solution. If you want lasting results, combine this soup with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

What Meat is Best for Cabbage?

When it comes to choosing meat for cabbage soup with ground beef, ground beef is a classic and tasty choice. It’s rich, filling, and gives the soup a savory, hearty flavor. But what if you want to switch things up? Here are some great alternatives:

• Ground Turkey: Leaner than beef, but still flavorful. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Ground Chicken: Another lean choice that works well with cabbage. It’s mild and lets the other flavors shine.
• Sausage: For a bolder, spicier kick, try using ground sausage. Just be mindful of the fat content!
• Ground Lamb: Want a richer, earthier taste? Ground lamb adds depth and pairs beautifully with cabbage.

Each meat option brings something different to the table. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite!

What is Cowboy Soup Made Of?

Ever heard of cowboy soup? It’s like the rugged, adventurous cousin of cabbage soup with ground beef. This hearty dish is a one-pot meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying a big appetite. Here’s what typically goes into cowboy soup:

• Ground Beef: The foundation of the soup, adding protein and flavor.
• Potatoes: Chunky, soft, and filling. They make the soup extra hearty.
• Corn: Sweet and juicy kernels add a nice pop of flavor.
• Beans: Usually pinto beans or kidney beans, giving the soup a nice, creamy texture.
• Diced Tomatoes: For a tangy, savory base that ties everything together.
• Cabbage (Optional): Some versions throw in cabbage for extra texture and nutrition.

It’s like a cross between a stew and a soup — rich, filling, and absolutely delicious. Think of it as comfort food with a wild west twist!

Why Does My Cabbage Soup Taste So Bland?

There’s nothing worse than bland soup, right? If your cabbage soup with ground beef tastes a little “meh,” don’t worry! There are easy fixes to bring it to life. Here’s what might be going wrong and how to fix it:

1. Not Enough Salt:
   • Sometimes, all your soup needs is a good pinch of salt to bring out the flavors. Add a little at a time, tasting as you go.
2. Lack of Spices:
   • Herbs and spices make a huge difference. Try adding black pepper, thyme, oregano, or even a bay leaf for extra depth.
3. No Acidic Kick:
   • A splash of lemon juice or a dash of apple cider vinegar can brighten up the whole pot. It cuts through the richness and adds a zing.
4. Missing Umami Flavor:
   • Umami is that deep, savory taste we all love. Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or even a bouillon cube to boost the flavor.
5. Overcooked Cabbage:
   • If the cabbage cooks too long, it can lose its texture and flavor. Add the cabbage towards the end and cook just until tender.

With these simple tweaks, your cabbage soup will go from bland to “can I have seconds?” in no time!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! This cabbage soup with ground beef is more than just a simple soup — it’s a hearty, healthy, and satisfying meal that fits right into your busy life. It’s like the superhero of soups: full of protein from the beef, packed with nutrients from the cabbage, and easy on your wallet and your waistline.

Whether you’re trying to lose weight, eat healthier, or just want a comforting bowl of goodness, this soup checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Want it spicier? Add some red pepper flakes. Need more veggies? Throw in some bell peppers or potatoes. The possibilities are endless!

And let’s not forget — this soup is a breeze to make. Brown your beef, chop some veggies, simmer it all together, and boom! You’ve got a delicious meal ready to go. It’s perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or those days when you just need a little extra comfort in a bowl.

So why not give it a try? Your taste buds (and your tummy) will thank you! 🥣🥬🍲