Hearty Beef Cabbage Soup Recipe for Comforting Meals
When the weather gets chilly, nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of beef cabbage soup. Packed with tender beef, fresh cabbage, and a rich, savory broth, this soup is the perfect comfort meal.
It’s wholesome, filling, and full of flavor, making it an excellent choice for a cozy family dinner or meal prep.
The best part? This one-pot wonder is super easy to make and requires simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Plus, it’s nutritious, high in protein, and low in carbs, making it a great option for anyone following a healthy or low-carb lifestyle.
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Beef Cabbage Soup
✔ Rich & comforting – A deeply flavorful broth with tender beef.
✔ One-pot meal – Easy cleanup and minimal effort.
✔ Nutritious & satisfying – Loaded with protein and fiber.
✔ Budget-friendly – Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
✔ Great for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients for Beef Cabbage Soup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef or stew beef, cut into small pieces
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds depth of flavor)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Hearty Beef Cabbage Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or stew beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook for another 30 seconds to release the flavors.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Add the Cabbage
Stir in the chopped cabbage and continue simmering for 15–20 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
Step 5: Taste and Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Fun Variations to Try
1. Low-Carb Keto Beef Cabbage Soup
Skip the carrots and replace them with chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for a keto-friendly version.
2. Spicy Beef Cabbage Soup
Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
3. Extra Hearty Beef Cabbage Soup
Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or small pasta for an even more filling meal.
4. Slow Cooker Beef Cabbage Soup
Brown the beef and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
5. Vegetarian Cabbage Soup
Replace the beef with lentils or kidney beans and use vegetable broth for a meatless option.
Tips for the Best Beef Cabbage Soup
✔ Use lean ground beef – It keeps the soup rich but not too greasy.
✔ Let it simmer longer – The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor gets.
✔ Don’t overcook the cabbage – It should be tender but not mushy.
✔ Adjust the spice level – Add more or less red pepper flakes based on your preference.
What to Serve with Beef Cabbage Soup
🥖 Crusty bread – Perfect for dipping into the savory broth.
🥗 Simple green salad – A fresh contrast to the hearty soup.
🧀 Grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese – Adds extra flavor.
🍚 Steamed rice or mashed potatoes – For a more filling meal.
How to Store and Reheat
Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freeze: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Store in freezer-safe containers.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Beef Cabbage Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether you make it for a cozy weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a hearty lunch, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Are you trying this comforting soup? Let me know in the comments! Happy cooking! 🥣🔥✨
