Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup: A Hearty, Healthy Comfort Meal

When you’re craving something cozy, hearty, and packed with flavor, few meals hit the spot like ground beef and cabbage soup. This simple yet nourishing dish has earned its place in kitchens around the world for a good reason—it’s affordable, versatile, and satisfying. Whether you’re trying to stretch your grocery budget or looking for a one-pot meal that’ll feed the whole family, ground beef and cabbage soup delivers every single time.

Made with fresh chopped cabbage, well-seasoned ground beef, and just the right blend of herbs and vegetables, this soup is more than a warm bowl of comfort. It’s a wholesome, protein-rich option that fits into low-carb, keto, and clean-eating plans. Plus, it’s easy to prep and perfect for busy weeknights.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything from selecting the best ingredients to cooking variations, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for boosting flavor. By the end, you’ll be ready to serve up your best bowl of ground beef and cabbage soup yet.

Why Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup Deserves a Spot in Your Weekly Menu

Health Benefits of Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup

When we talk about ground beef and cabbage soup, we’re not just talking comfort food—we’re talking nutrition. This powerhouse combination is ideal for anyone looking to eat clean without sacrificing taste.

Cabbage, a member of the cruciferous family, packs a powerful nutritional punch with its high content of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s low in calories but high in volume, which makes it incredibly filling without loading you down. Paired with lean ground beef, which offers complete protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, the soup becomes a perfect balance of macronutrients.

Not only does ground beef and cabbage soup help support digestion and immunity thanks to its fiber and vitamin content, but it also keeps you satisfied longer. This makes it an excellent meal for weight loss, intermittent fasting, or simply staying full between meals.

Here’s a quick comparison of the benefits in one serving:

As you can see, ground beef and cabbage soup isn’t just delicious—it’s smart eating.

Why It’s a Budget-Friendly and Filling Comfort Food

One of the main appeals of ground beef and cabbage soup is its cost-effectiveness. Cabbage is inexpensive and yields a substantial quantity, making it ideal for stretching meals. Ground beef remains one of the most affordable protein choices, especially when bought in larger quantities or during promotions. Combine it with common pantry ingredients like onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, and simple seasonings, and you have a complete, nourishing dish at a minimal cost per portion.

This soup also stretches well. You can double the batch without doubling the cost. Whether you’re feeding four people or prepping meals for the week, ground beef and cabbage soup is the gift that keeps on giving.

And let’s not overlook the comfort factor. The warm broth, the tenderness of the cabbage, and the savory richness of the beef combine for a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s ideal for cold days, post-holiday detox, or any time you need a hearty dish that feels homemade without being heavy.

Key Ingredients That Define Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup

Choosing the Best Ground Beef and Cabbage

The taste and consistency of ground beef and cabbage soup are greatly influenced by the quality of your main ingredients. It all begins with choosing the right ground beef and a fresh head of cabbage.

When selecting ground beef, aim for an 85% to 90% lean mix. This strikes the ideal balance: enough fat to infuse flavor, but not so much that it overwhelms the broth with grease. If you’re keeping things lighter, 93% lean is a solid option, though you may need to boost flavor with extra herbs and spices. Avoid fattier blends like 70/30, as they tend to leave an unappetizing oily film on top of your soup. As for the cabbage, choose a firm, tightly packed head with crisp, vibrant leaves—freshness makes all the difference in both taste and texture.

Freshness matters. Try to use freshly ground beef over frozen for the best texture. If you’re shopping ahead of time, be sure to thaw meat fully in the refrigerator before cooking.

Next comes cabbage. Green cabbage is the go-to variety for most ground beef and cabbage soup recipes. It holds up well in cooking, softens beautifully, and adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor that balances the savoriness of the beef. Look for cabbage heads that are heavy, tight, and free from blemishes or wilted leaves.

Want to add variety? You can try:

• Savoy cabbage for a silkier texture
• Red cabbage for a bolder look (note: this will change the color of your broth)
• Napa cabbage for a more delicate bite

Whatever you choose, slice it into medium-thin shreds. Overly thick chunks may take longer to cook and overpower the beef.

Fresh Vegetables, Herbs, and Spices to Elevate the Flavor

What makes ground beef and cabbage soup truly stand out is its ability to soak up the rich flavors of added ingredients. This gives you the perfect opportunity to layer in depth, fragrance, and character using fresh vegetables and seasonings.

Here are some foundational add-ins:

Tomato base: Many ground beef and cabbage soup recipes include diced tomatoes or tomato paste to bring acidity and body to the broth. Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky twist, or go classic with plain diced.

Now let’s talk spices:

• Salt and black pepper (essential base)
• Garlic powder or fresh garlic (layered flavor)
• Paprika or smoked paprika (adds subtle warmth)
• Thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning (herbal dimension)
• Bay leaf (for simmering broth)
• Chili flakes (optional, for mild heat)
• Beef bouillon or bone broth (concentrated richness)

If you’re making ground beef and cabbage soup for meal prep, keep the seasoning bold. Over time, flavors mellow in the fridge, so start strong.

Pro tip: Sautéing your ground beef with the aromatics (onions, garlic, celery) before adding liquids enhances the base flavor. It’s a simple step that builds complexity in every bite.

For a sweet and savory twist on comfort food, check out these One-Pan Sweet Corn Coconut Dumplings for a unique pairing idea.

How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup (Step-by-Step Recipe)

Full Ingredients List With Pro Tips

To make a hearty, flavorful ground beef and cabbage soup, start with these easy-to-find, affordable ingredients. This recipe serves 6–8 and can be doubled for batch cooking or meal prep.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean recommended)
• 1 medium green cabbage, chopped (about 6–8 cups)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 oz each, no salt added)
• 1 tbsp beef bouillon or 4 cups beef broth
• 4 cups water
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
• Optional: bay leaf, chili flakes, or a splash of vinegar to balance acidity

Pro Tip: Use low-sodium beef broth or homemade bone broth for better control over salt levels in your ground beef and cabbage soup.

Cooking Methods: Stovetop, Slow Cooker, and Instant Pot Guide

No matter your kitchen setup, ground beef and cabbage soup fits into your cooking routine. Here are the best three methods to prepare it:

Method 1: Stovetop (Traditional and Flavor-Packed

• Sear the beef: Heat a swirl of olive oil in a sturdy Dutch oven or deep soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, using a wooden spoon to break it into crumbles as it browns. Once the meat is fully cooked and nicely caramelized, drain any excess fat to keep the soup light and flavorful.
• Add veggies: Toss in onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook until vegetables are softened (about 4–5 minutes).
• Layer in spices and richness: Stir in tomato paste, paprika, thyme, and a spoonful of beef bouillon. Let everything cook for about a minute, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize slightly and the spices to become fragrant.
• Add liquids and hearty ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes, broth, and a bit of water. Then, add the chopped cabbage and cubed potatoes, stirring well to evenly distribute all the ingredients.
• Simmer to perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat. Cover and let simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cabbage is fully softened.
• Final taste check: Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red chili flakes if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.

Method 2: Slow Cooker (Hands-Off & Easy)

• In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic.
• Transfer to your slow cooker. Add all remaining ingredients.
• Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
• Stir well before serving. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Slow cooking allows flavors in your ground beef and cabbage soup to deepen over time, making it perfect for next-day leftovers.

Method 3: Instant Pot (Quick & Convenient)

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil, then cook the ground beef along with the onion and garlic until browned.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients, stirring well.
3. Lock the lid and set to Pressure Cook (Manual) for 15 minutes.
4. Let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure.
5. Stir and taste before serving.

Here’s a quick summary comparison of each method:

In the next section, we’ll get into tips and tricks to help you master the flavor and texture of your ground beef and cabbage soup every single time.

Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup

Balancing Texture: Cabbage Softness vs Beef Doneness

Crafting the ideal bowl of ground beef and cabbage soup goes beyond simply combining ingredients. It requires attention to timing, proper layering, and flavor balance. One common challenge for home cooks is getting the texture right—you want the cabbage to be soft but not overcooked, and the beef to be thoroughly cooked without turning dry or crumbly.

Here’s how to get it right:

• Avoid overcooking potatoes. If you’re adding spuds to your ground beef and cabbage soup, cut them larger and add them later in the process if needed.
• Brown the ground beef before adding other ingredients. This helps develop flavor and gives the meat a slightly crispy texture that holds up well in the soup.
• Chop cabbage into even slices, around ½ inch thick. This allows for even cooking, so you don’t end up with raw chunks or limp strands.
• Simmer gently once everything’s in the pot. High heat will make cabbage break down too fast and turn watery. Low and slow is your best bet.

Boosting Flavor With Broth, Acidity, and Herbs

Let’s face it—cabbage can be bland. Ground beef, while flavorful, can also fall flat if not seasoned correctly. The secret to a bold, delicious ground beef and cabbage soup lies in its broth and seasoning base.

Here’s how to deepen flavor naturally:

1. Start with aromatics: Garlic, onion, and celery create the foundational flavor. Sauté these in oil before adding your ground beef or broth.
2. Use beef broth or bouillon: Water won’t cut it. A strong broth adds richness that turns your ground beef and cabbage soup from bland to crave-worthy.
3. Tomato paste = umami power: Just a tablespoon or two adds a deep, savory depth. Cook it briefly with the beef to remove the tinny taste.
4. Add acidity: A splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon at the end brightens everything up and balances the richness of the meat.
5. Don’t skip the herbs: Aromatics like thyme, oregano, and bay leaves bring depth and complexity to the soup. For a bright, refreshing touch, finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill just before serving.

And here’s something many people overlook: seasoning in layers. Don’t wait until the end to salt your soup. Add small amounts during every step—from the beef, to the sautéed vegetables, to the simmering broth. That way, every spoonful of your ground beef and cabbage soup is seasoned to perfection.

Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup

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• Author: Tasha
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

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Description

This Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is a one-pot comfort meal that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful. Loaded with tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and hearty vegetables, it’s perfect for chilly nights or meal prep. It’s also naturally gluten-free, low-carb friendly, and easy to customize to your taste.

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Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef (85-90% lean)
• 1 medium green cabbage, chopped
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon beef bouillon or 4 cups beef broth
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
3. Build Flavor: Stir in tomato paste, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen flavor.
4. Add Liquids and Vegetables: Pour in diced tomatoes, broth, and water. Stir in cabbage and potatoes (if using).
5. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until cabbage and potatoes are tender.
6. Finish and Serve: Adjust seasoning to taste. Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

For a low-carb version, omit the potatoes and consider adding cauliflower. This soup freezes beautifully, so make a double batch for easy future meals. For added heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Delicious Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup Variations

One of the best things about ground beef and cabbage soup is how flexible it is. You can easily tweak it to fit your dietary goals, food preferences, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re going low-carb, trying to avoid dairy, or want a plant-based alternative, there’s a version of this soup for you.

Let’s look at how to make your ground beef and cabbage soup work for every lifestyle.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Twists

If you’re cutting carbs or following a keto plan, ground beef and cabbage soup is already halfway there. To make it fully keto-approved, all you need to do is remove high-starch ingredients like potatoes or sweet corn.

Low-Carb Adjustments:

• Skip the potatoes and replace with cauliflower florets or diced zucchini
• Use full-fat ground beef (80/20) for added richness and fat content
• Boost fat macros by topping your bowl with shredded cheese, sour cream, or a drizzle of olive oil

The result? A satisfying, high-fat version of ground beef and cabbage soup that keeps your carbs in check and your hunger satisfied.

Vegan, Vegetarian, and Dairy-Free Alternatives

Even if you’re skipping meat, you can still enjoy the essence of ground beef and cabbage soup by using plant-based substitutes. The key is to retain that meaty flavor profile while relying on clean, plant-based ingredients.

Plant-Based Modifications:

• Replace ground beef with lentils, textured vegetable protein (TVP), or a plant-based ground meat like Beyond or Impossible
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth
• Boost umami flavor with soy sauce, miso paste, or nutritional yeast
• Add extra veggies like mushrooms, kale, or chickpeas for heartiness

The result is a soup that still delivers big on flavor—just without the meat. It’s a great option for meatless Mondays, or for sharing your love of ground beef and cabbage soup with vegan or vegetarian friends.

Cultural and Spicy Variations

Want to put a global spin on your ground beef and cabbage soup? Cabbage and beef show up in cuisines around the world, so it’s easy to draw inspiration from different flavor profiles.

Here are a few fun ideas:

By slightly adjusting the spice profile and aromatics, you can transform your ground beef and cabbage soup into something completely new and exciting.

FAQs

Conclusion

Whether you’re cooking up a quick dinner, stocking the freezer for hectic weeks, or simply in need of something warm and nourishing, ground beef and cabbage soup delivers every time.

It’s affordable, customizable, and packed with nutrients—proving you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something truly satisfying. The bold flavor of the beef, the tender cabbage, and the savory broth come together in a way that feels homemade and wholesome.

Give this soup a try, make it your own with variations, and enjoy the comfort it brings to your table!

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