Name: Hearty Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups green cabbage, shredded; 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced; 3 celery stalks, chopped; 6 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice); 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate the simplicity of this recipe no need for complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and rich tomato broth creates a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of comfort food with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups green cabbage, shredded
2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
3 celery stalks, chopped
6 cups beef broth
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. I add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned. If necessary, I remove any excess fat.
I add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
I stir in the shredded cabbage, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. I cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
I pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice). I add the dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
I bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. I let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
I taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. I serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. From start to finish, it takes about 45 minutes to prepare and cook, making it an ideal option for a weeknight dinner.

Variations

When I want to change things up, I sometimes use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. For a spicier kick, I add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce. To make it low-carb, I substitute the rice with cauliflower rice, which still provides a satisfying texture.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This soup also freezes well; I let it cool completely, then freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, I can use pre-cooked rice. I just reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe and add the rice towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Is it necessary to use both tomato sauce and diced tomatoes?

I find that using both adds depth and texture to the dish. However, if I prefer a smoother sauce, I can use only tomato sauce or blend the diced tomatoes before adding them.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. I substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or a combination of beans and lentils. I also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, I include ingredients like crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture.

What type of cheese works best for topping?

I prefer using shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, as they melt well and complement the flavors of the soup. However, I can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend for different tastes.

Conclusion

This Hearty Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup has become a staple in my kitchen. I love how it delivers the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls with a fraction of the effort. It’s a versatile, one-pot meal that’s sure to satisfy and simplify my dinner routine.