A hearty and nourishing meal, this Meaty Cabbage Soup is perfect for chilly days. Packed with vegetables, tender meat, and a rich broth, it’s an easy recipe that brings comfort and warmth to your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it on a weekday dinner or serve it to guests, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: A splash of hot sauce for added flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables
Start by chopping the cabbage, carrots, celery, and onion. Set them aside for later. - Cook the ground beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat. - Sauté the aromatics
Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened. - Combine the ingredients
Add the chopped cabbage, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir to combine, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to slightly soften. - Add the liquids and seasoning
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. - Simmer
Bring the soup to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should be tender, and the flavors should meld together. - Final touches
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For a little heat, add a splash of hot sauce or your favorite chili flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping. This soup also pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a slice of cheese toast. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Tips for the Perfect Meaty Cabbage Soup
Add other vegetables: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables such as potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
Spice it up: For an extra kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce while cooking.
This Meaty Cabbage Soup is the ultimate comfort food—perfect for meal prepping, cozy dinners, or a wholesome dish to serve family and friends. Enjoy!