Easy Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef: A Hearty Comfort Food

Name: Easy Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (Can be substituted with ground turkey or lentils.); 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small head cabbage, chopped (Green cabbage recommended, but napa or savoy can be used.); 4 cups beef broth (Homemade enhances flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.); 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 2 medium carrots, sliced; 1 teaspoon oregano; to taste Salt and pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking

When the weather turns chilly or you’re in need of some delicious comfort food, nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of homemade cabbage soup with ground beef. Picture this: the rich, savory flavor of beef mingling with tender cabbage and fresh vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a hearty broth. This Easy Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is not only delectable but also simple to make, making it a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Get ready to dive into a nourishing meal that your whole family will love!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef

This recipe is truly special, bringing together flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation. Here’s why you’ll want to keep this cabbage soup on your menu:

Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this soup can be on the table in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
Perfect for Beginners: Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe guides you through every step, ensuring a delicious result without overwhelming you.
Ideal for the Whole Family: Packed with protein and veggies, this soup is a balanced meal that appeals to all ages. It’s also an excellent way to get kids to eat their greens!
Economical: Made with affordable ingredients, this dish is budget-friendly, allowing you to feed a hungry family without breaking the bank.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

The Necessary Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather what you need! Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients for this hearty cabbage soup:

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
4 cups beef broth
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
2 carrots, sliced
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:

Ground Beef: While lean ground beef is a great choice for this soup, you can easily substitute it for ground turkey or even a vegetarian option like lentils for a different flavor profile.
Cabbage: Green cabbage works wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with napa cabbage or savoy cabbage for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that different types may alter the texture slightly.
Beef Broth: Using homemade beef broth can enhance the flavor of your soup. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, switch to vegetable broth, which works just as well.

How to Prepare the Easy Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef Step by Step

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup in no time.

Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Pro Tip: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the onions. A drop of water should sizzle if the oil is ready!
Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Pro Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The aromatic garlic and onion will create a flavor base for your soup.
Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Pro Tip: Browning the beef really adds depth to the flavor. Don’t rush this step!
Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pro Tip: This is a great time to adjust your seasoning. Taste the mixture as you go.
Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.
- Pro Tip: Simmering allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, so be patient and let it cook for 20-25 minutes.
Serve Hot: Once the vegetables are tender, your cabbage soup is ready to enjoy!
- Pro Tip: Serve it with some crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra special touch.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Perfect Pairings

Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh baguette or sourdough pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up the delightful broth.
Side Salad: A simple side salad with vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness, adding a refreshing crunch.

Occasions

Weeknight Dinner: With a prep and cook time of under an hour, it’s the ideal choice for a busy weeknight meal.
Family Gatherings: Serve this heartwarming soup during family get-togethers or potluck gatherings—it’s sure to be a hit!

Serving Tips

Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream or some fresh herbs like parsley for additional flavor and color.
Portion Sizes: Serve in larger bowls for a filling meal or smaller bowls as a tasty starter.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerated

Duration: Store your leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezed

Packaging: This soup freezes well! Store in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 3 months.
Defrosting: When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave for quick defrosting.

Reheating

Best Method: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

Guaranteed Success Tips

Here are some golden rules to keep in mind while making your cabbage soup:

Don’t Rush the Browning: Allow the beef to brown properly for richer flavor.
Taste as You Go: Season your soup incrementally. It’s easier to add than to take away!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables elevate the taste of your soup, making it much more enjoyable.
Simmer Time Matters: Letting your soup simmer will deepen the flavors—don’t skimp on time!

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations you can try:

Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with firm tofu or lentils, and use vegetable broth.
Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for unique flavor profiles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onion and garlic in a pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Q: What if my soup is too thick?
A: If the soup gets too thick, simply add a bit more beef broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be used. Just add them during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.

Q: How do I make this gluten-free?
A: Check your beef broth for gluten, or make your own. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the broth is gluten-free.

Q: Can leftovers be reheated?
A: Yes! Leftovers reheat very well. Just follow the reheating tips stated above.

Q: What sides would pair well with this soup?
A: A side of garlic bread, grilled cheese, or a light salad works beautifully with this flavorful soup.

Q: Is it necessary to add tomatoes?
A: The tomatoes add acidity and depth, but you can omit them if preferred. Just add a little extra broth.

With these tips, variations, and FAQs, you now have the ultimate guide to creating a delectable Easy Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s make some soup! Enjoy the warmth, flavors, and satisfaction that comes with cooking this comforting dish. Happy cooking!