Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a big pot of cabbage soup bubbling away on the stove, and when you add ground beef into the mix, it transforms into a hearty, satisfying meal that hits all the right notes. This Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef Recipe is one of my go-to dishes, especially when I want something nourishing, simple, and full of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe stands out because it’s both versatile and forgiving. I love how the cabbage softens perfectly and soaks up the rich juices from the beef and seasonings — it’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and I know you’ll enjoy it as much as I do.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

This Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef Recipe is grounded in simple, fresh ingredients that harmonize perfectly. Each component brings its own texture and flavor, from the tender cabbage to the hearty beef and the aromatic seasonings that tie everything together.

• Ground Beef: Provides richness and protein, and browning it creates a flavorful base for the soup.
• Green Bell Pepper: Adds a slight sweetness and crunch, balancing the earthiness of the cabbage.
• Yellow Onion: Offers natural sweetness that deepens as it softens in the pot.
• Carrots: Bring little bursts of subtle sweetness and color.
• Celery: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery background note and texture.
• Garlic and Herb Seasoning: Infuses savory depth and aromatic notes.
• Slap Ya Mama Seasoning: Adds a Cajun kick for those who enjoy a little heat; you can omit if you want it milder.
• Tomato Paste: Boosts umami and thickens the soup slightly for a richer texture.
• Russet Potatoes: Create hearty chunks that soak up broth and add comfort-food vibes.
• Diced Tomatoes (canned): Introduce acidity and freshness that brighten the whole soup.
• Garlic Cloves: Deliver a punch of warmth and depth in every bite.
• Green Cabbage: The star vegetable — it softens beautifully, lending body and subtle sweetness.
• Knorr Beef Bouillon + Water or Broth: Provides a savory foundation, locking in a rich beefy flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love playing around with this cabbage soup, adding different veggies or swapping out the beef for turkey when I want something lighter. Feel free to make this recipe your own—it adapts beautifully and every tweak brings something new to the table.

• Spicy Twist: I sometimes increase the Cajun seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick that wakes up the flavors.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for hearty mushrooms or plant-based crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of beef bouillon for a meatless meal.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in zucchini or spinach in the last 10 minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.
• Chunkier Soup: Cut the potatoes and cabbage into bigger pieces if you want a heartier bite.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Sauté Veggies

Start by heating your Dutch oven over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Make sure to break it apart so it browns evenly—this is where a lot of the flavor develops. As it browns, you’ll see the fat render and the beef get that lovely caramelized crust. Once the beef looks good, add in your diced green bell pepper, yellow onion, carrots, and celery. Sprinkle on your garlic and herb seasoning plus the Slap Ya Mama Cajun seasoning, then keep stirring until the veggies soften slightly—about 5 minutes. This softening step really wakes up their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Build Deep Flavor with Tomato Paste and Potatoes

Next, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook with the beef and veggies for a couple of minutes. This concentrates the tomato flavor and adds extra richness. Then add your chopped russet potatoes, giving everything a good stir to combine the flavors before adding the liquids.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Garlic, and Cabbage

Pour in your canned diced tomatoes along with the minced garlic cloves. Stir everything together so the garlic can start releasing its aroma. Now, here comes the cabbage—it might look like a lot at first, but don’t be intimidated! It wilts down quite a bit, so add it in batches if needed, stirring as you go.

Step 4: Add Broth, Simmer, and Season

Drop in the Knorr beef bouillon or use your preferred broth, then add 4 cups of water. Stir thoroughly, bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until your potatoes and cabbage are tender to your liking. Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and pepper before serving.

How to Serve Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top my bowl with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes, a dollop of sour cream or a little shredded sharp cheddar adds a creamy, tangy contrast that feels so indulgent. Crusty bread on the side is a must-have to soak up all those tasty juices.

Side Dishes

This soup is almost a one-pot wonder, but I like pairing it with simple sides like garlic bread, cornbread, or even a light green salad. When I want something heartier, roasted Brussels sprouts or a baked potato work beautifully too.

Creative Ways to Present

For family dinners or casual gatherings, I serve this soup in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of paprika on top for a cozy touch. Another fun idea is to fill hollowed-out bread bowls with the soup—kids always get excited by that! If you’re meal prepping, portioning the soup into individual mason jars makes grab-and-go lunches super easy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover cabbage soup in airtight containers in the fridge, where it keeps beautifully for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it often tastes even better the next day. Just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

This soup freezes like a dream. I portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving a little room for expansion. When you thaw it, the potatoes might soften slightly more, but I actually enjoy the creamy texture it creates. It’s perfect for planning ahead and having a comforting meal ready anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, stovetop is my favorite method: warm over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture if it’s thickened too much. If you’re in a hurry, microwave works fine — just stir every minute or so to heat evenly. Avoid boiling once reheated to keep flavors bright and veggies intact.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef Recipe has become a real staple in my kitchen — it’s one of those comforting meals that’s easy to throw together but feels like a hug when you eat it. I recommend you give it a try this week; it’s the kind of recipe that’ll quickly become your go-to for chilly evenings, busy nights, or whenever you crave a warm, wholesome bowl of goodness. You’ve got this!

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