Hearty and Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting and nutritious dish that will warm you up from the inside out, look no further than this cabbage soup recipe. It’s a bowl of pure comfort with the perfect balance of rich flavors, health benefits, and heartiness. Not only does it boast a load of vegetables, but the addition of ground beef makes it a satisfying, wholesome meal. The best part? It’s easy to make, and you probably have most of the ingredients already in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup

This cabbage soup ticks all the boxes when it comes to an ideal meal: healthy, filling, and packed with flavor. The vegetables give it that homey, earthy taste, while the ground beef adds a nice protein boost, making it perfect for a full meal. Whether you’re craving something warm on a rainy day or trying to eat light and clean, this soup is your go-to.

Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Healthy: Filled with vegetables like cabbage, onions, celery, and tomatoes, this soup is packed with vitamins and nutrients.
• Hearty and Filling: Thanks to the ground beef, this isn’t just any veggie soup—it’s a substantial meal that satisfies.
• Budget-Friendly: Using simple, inexpensive ingredients, this recipe is easy on the wallet but rich in taste.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and just a few steps, you can have this soup on the table in under an hour.

Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Cabbage Soup

Before you begin, make sure you’ve got these ingredients on hand:

• 1 large cabbage, roughly chopped
• 2 small onions, diced
• 2 cans of stewed tomatoes
• 1 pouch Lipton Onion Soup Mix (any flavor will work)
• 1 large celery stalk, chopped finely
• 1-2 pounds ground beef
• Water
• Spices of your choice (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, etc.)

Tools You’ll Need:

• A large saucepan or stockpot
• A cutting board and knife for chopping the veggies
• Wooden spoon or ladle for stirring
• Skillet for browning the beef

Optional Additions and Substitutions:

• Carrots: Add a pop of color and sweetness by tossing in a handful of chopped carrots.
• Bell peppers: Give your soup an extra crunch and flavor boost.
• Ground turkey or chicken: If you prefer a lighter option, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
• Vegetarian version: Omit the beef and add beans or lentils for protein.

How to Make Cabbage Soup: Step-by-Step

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be ladling up a delicious bowl of cabbage soup in no time.

1. Boil the Vegetables

Fill your large saucepan halfway with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, celery, and stewed tomatoes. Once the water starts bubbling again, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the vegetables cook until they begin to soften—this usually takes about 20-25 minutes.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

While the vegetables are simmering, grab a skillet and cook 1-2 pounds of ground beef over medium heat. Break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks. Once the meat is browned and fully cooked, drain off any excess fat. This step ensures the soup isn’t too greasy.

3. Add Seasonings and Onion Soup Mix

To boost the flavor, stir in the Lipton Onion Soup Mix and your preferred spices. Common seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika work well, but feel free to get creative with your spice cabinet!

4. Combine the Beef and Simmer

Add the cooked ground beef to the pot with the simmering vegetables. Stir everything together, and let the soup cook for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Taste and Serve

Give the soup a taste—adjust the seasoning if needed. Once you’re happy with the flavor, it’s ready to serve! Ladle the hot, hearty cabbage soup into bowls and enjoy.

What to Serve with Cabbage Soup

This cabbage soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal with some tasty sides:

• Crusty bread or garlic toast: Perfect for dipping and soaking up all that savory broth.
• A light salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup.
• Mashed potatoes: If you’re looking to make the meal extra comforting, a side of creamy mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the soup.

Tips for Making the Best Cabbage Soup

• Don’t skimp on the simmering: Allowing the vegetables and beef to simmer together really deepens the flavors. Don’t rush this step!
• Cut vegetables evenly: To ensure even cooking, try to chop the vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
• Adjust the liquid: Depending on how thick or soupy you like it, you can adjust the amount of water you add. For a brothier soup, add more water, or reduce it if you want a heartier stew-like consistency.

How to Store Cabbage Soup

If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better after sitting overnight!
• Freezer: You can freeze cabbage soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, just add a little water or broth to thin it out while warming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add beans (like kidney or cannellini beans) or lentils for a plant-based protein source.

2. How can I add more flavor to this soup?

While the Lipton Onion Soup Mix adds great flavor, you can also toss in a few bay leaves, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely. If you prefer the flavor of fresh tomatoes, feel free to use them. Just be sure to peel and dice them before adding them to the soup.

4. How do I make this soup more filling?

Adding starchy vegetables like potatoes, or even a handful of rice or pasta, will make the soup even more filling.

Conclusion

This cabbage soup is truly a gem—it’s healthy, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this soup is a sure winner. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can easily switch up ingredients to suit your taste. I hope you love it as much as I do!

If you try this recipe, be sure to leave a review below or share your photos on Pinterest—I’d love to see your creations!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 230
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 5g

Enjoy every spoonful! 😋

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