Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup – Quick, Hearty & Delicious

If there’s one recipe that screams comfort food without the chaos, it’s Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup. Whether you’re juggling Zoom calls, soccer practice, or just too tired to think after work—this cozy bowl of goodness is your new weeknight lifesaver. It’s got that hearty, homey vibe (thanks, ground beef), and the cabbage and veggies make it feel like you’re eating something your grandma would be proud of. Best part? One pot, no fancy ingredients, and it’s ready in under 45 minutes. Let’s dive into why this Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup might just become your go-to dinner this fall.

Table of Contents

What is Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup?

Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup is like a big hug in a bowl. It blends lean ground beef with a mix of simple vegetables—think cabbage, carrots, onions, and celery—in a seasoned tomato-beef broth. The result? A deeply satisfying soup that’s flavorful but not fussy. It’s inspired by classic hamburger soup, but lighter and cabbage-forward, giving it that rustic, old-school vibe with a little smoky twist from paprika. If your family loves soups like Hamburger Soup or Cabbage Roll Soup, this one’s right up their alley.

Reasons to Try Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup

Let’s be real—dinner needs to be simple, filling, and picky-eater approved. This Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup checks all the boxes. First off, it uses everyday ingredients you probably already have hanging out in your fridge or pantry. No last-minute store runs needed (cue happy dance). Second, it’s budget-friendly—ground beef and cabbage are both MVPs when it comes to feeding a family without emptying your wallet. Lastly, it’s one of those soups that somehow tastes even better the next day. Leftovers? Yes, please.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup

To bring this Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup to life, we’re working with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to make a dish that’s anything but ordinary. Let’s walk through each one so you know exactly what’s going into your pot—and why it matters.

• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)
A tablespoon of olive oil is all you need to get things started. It adds a subtle richness and helps brown the ground beef evenly. You could use avocado oil or vegetable oil in a pinch, but olive oil brings a classic warmth that’s hard to beat.

• Ground Beef (1 pound)
The star of the show. Ground beef brings hearty flavor and protein that makes this soup feel like a full meal, not just a light starter. For best results, choose 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio—it’s flavorful without being greasy. Prefer something lighter? You can easily substitute with ground turkey or chicken. If that’s more your style, check out our Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup for a fun twist on a meaty soup.

• Onion, Diced (1 small)
A small yellow or white onion builds the aromatic base for your soup. Once sautéed, it adds a touch of sweetness and depth. Dice it finely so it melts into the broth and balances the savory beef without overpowering it.

• Garlic Cloves, Minced (2 cloves)
Fresh garlic gives that savory kick that brings everything together. Two cloves are enough to infuse the soup with flavor without overwhelming it. Pro tip: sauté garlic just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—so it doesn’t turn bitter.

• Green Cabbage, Shredded (4 cups)
This is where the soup gets its rustic soul. Cabbage becomes beautifully tender as it simmers, soaking up the broth and spices. Don’t rush it—shred it thinly for the best texture. If you love cabbage-forward dishes, don’t miss our German Cabbage Soup Recipe for another cozy classic.

• Carrots, Peeled and Sliced (2 large)
Carrots add a natural sweetness that balances the savory beef and acidity from the tomatoes. Slice them thin so they cook quickly and blend right into each bite. If your little ones are picky about “orange things,” try dicing them smaller—they’ll never know.

• Celery Stalks, Chopped (3 stalks)
Celery brings a fresh crunch and that classic soup aroma that makes your kitchen smell like Sunday at grandma’s. It also adds balance to the beefiness of the broth and keeps things from feeling too heavy.

• Beef Broth (6 cups)
Here’s the flavorful liquid that ties it all together. Beef broth builds depth and richness into every spoonful. If you’re watching sodium, go for low-sodium broth and season to taste. You can also use homemade broth if you’ve got time (or leftovers from our Hearty Beef and Barley Soup).

• Diced Tomatoes with Juice (1 can, 14.5 oz)
Don’t drain them—those juices add body and tang to the soup. The acidity in tomatoes cuts through the beef and cabbage, giving the soup a nice bright finish. Want more tomato-forward flavor? Toss in a spoonful of tomato paste for extra richness.

• Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon)
Thyme is earthy and warm and pairs perfectly with beef. Just a teaspoon brings a comforting herbal note that lingers in the background without stealing the spotlight.

• Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon)
This is where the magic happens. Smoked paprika adds depth and a subtle smoky edge that gives this soup a slightly unexpected (and totally addictive) flavor. If you’ve never tried it before, trust us—it’s a pantry staple worth keeping around.

• Salt and Pepper (To Taste)
Keep it simple. Start small, taste often. The beef broth and canned tomatoes bring some saltiness on their own, so you don’t need much. Cracked black pepper adds just enough warmth without overpowering.

• Fresh Parsley, Chopped (Optional for Garnish)
Totally optional, but highly recommended. A sprinkle of parsley adds color and a fresh, slightly peppery bite that makes each bowl look and taste complete. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even swirl in a touch of sour cream or top with shredded cheese—no judgment here.

Whether you’re making this for a quick family dinner or prepping lunches for the week, these ingredients make a flavorful, nutritious bowl of Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup that’s deeply satisfying and wildly easy. For more comforting soups, browse our full soup collection here—from cozy Lemony Greek Chickpea Soup to rich Creamy Cowboy Soup, we’ve got you covered.

Instructions to Make Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup

Let’s walk through how to make this Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup step by step, so whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just figuring out what “sauté” means, you’ll feel totally confident from your first chop to that final simmer. Each part of this recipe is designed to be approachable, flavorful, and fuss-free—just how weeknight dinners should be.

Step 1: Sauté and Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 pound of ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks.
Let it brown evenly—this step is where the rich, meaty flavor begins. You’ll want to stir occasionally and cook until the beef is no longer pink and just starting to crisp at the edges. If there’s extra grease, carefully drain it off. This keeps your broth clean and not overly oily.

💡 Need help choosing lean ground beef? Check out our Hamburger Noodle Soup post where we break down meat ratios and when to go lean vs. full flavor.

Step 2: Add the Onion and Garlic for Flavor Foundation
Toss in your diced onion (1 small) and 2 minced garlic cloves right into the pot with the browned beef. Stir everything together and sauté for about 2–3 minutes. You’ll know this step is working when your kitchen smells like something amazing is about to happen.
The onion softens and starts to turn translucent, and the garlic adds a punch of savory warmth—this is the base that builds big flavor.

Step 3: Add in the Veggies
Next, pile in your 4 cups of shredded green cabbage, 2 sliced carrots, and 3 chopped celery stalks. Stir them into the beef mixture, making sure the veggies get coated with all the meaty goodness.
Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re not trying to fully cook the veggies yet—just give them a head start and let them soak up those flavors.

Love cabbage but want something with a little European flair? You might enjoy this German Cabbage Soup Recipe as a weekend option.

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Tomatoes – Let It Simmer
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Pour in 6 cups of beef broth and 1 (14.5 oz) can of diced tomatoes (juice included—don’t drain it!).
Add in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well.

Turn the heat up to high until the soup starts to boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot loosely, and let the soup simmer for 20–25 minutes. This step is the magic moment—your kitchen will smell incredible as the cabbage gets tender, the carrots soften, and all those flavors meld into something soul-warming.

Looking for more soups that simmer into rich perfection? Try our Slow Cooker Nacho Soup or Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup.

Step 5: Taste, Adjust, and Serve
Once the vegetables are tender, take a taste. This is your chance to add a little more salt or pepper if needed. If the soup tastes a little too rich, a splash of apple cider vinegar or squeeze of lemon juice can brighten it right up.

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and, if desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it with crusty bread, a grilled cheese, or even a scoop of rice stirred right in.

📌 Pro tip: This soup reheats like a dream, so don’t be afraid to double the recipe and freeze half. For freezing tips, scroll to our “Storage and Reheating” section.

By following this step by step guide, you’ll end up with a hearty, flavorful Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings or prepping ahead for busy weekdays. The process is simple, the ingredients are humble, but the result is seriously comforting.

For more tips on soup-making basics, ingredient swaps, and clever kitchen shortcuts, explore our growing collection of recipes at CookingWithRamsay.com—where easy, home-cooked meals are just a few steps away.

What to Serve with Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup

This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you’re looking to round things out, a thick slice of crusty sourdough or some warm buttery garlic bread is pure perfection. For a low-carb option, try it with a simple cucumber salad or a handful of roasted Brussels sprouts. Got leftovers? Pair it with grilled cheese for a lunch your coworkers will side-eye with envy.

Key Tips for Making Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup

1. Lean ground beef is your friend—it keeps things flavorful without too much grease.
2. Don’t overcook the cabbage. You want it soft but not sad and mushy.
3. Got picky eaters? Dice the veggies smaller—they’re less likely to notice the carrots when everything’s bite-sized.
4. Use low-sodium broth if you want more control over the saltiness.
5. A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end? Game changer. Adds a subtle zing that balances the richness.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup

This soup holds up like a champ. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, let it cool completely and stash it in freezer-safe bags or containers (leave a little room for expansion). Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or pop a bowl in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Bonus: it tastes even better the next day, so don’t be afraid to double the batch.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. It’ll be lighter, but still delicious. Add a dash of Worcestershire for depth.

Is this soup keto-friendly?
Mostly, yes! Just skip the carrots or use fewer, and you’re good to go.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then toss everything into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours.

Can I freeze this soup?
Totally. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently.

What other veggies can I toss in?
Zucchini, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach near the end works great.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup isn’t just dinner—it’s a warm, no-fuss solution to busy weeknights and chilly evenings. It’s humble, hearty, and hits all the right notes without breaking the bank or your sanity. Add it to your weekly rotation and thank yourself later. And if you’re loving soup season, check out our Cabbage Soup Recipe or try something bold like Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup. Happy cooking!

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