If you’re craving a cozy, wholesome meal that warms you up from the inside out, this Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe is just what you need. Bursting with vibrant veggies, rich tomato flavors, and savory ground beef, it’s a deliciously simple dish that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas and your belly with satisfying goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nourishing treat on a chilly day, this soup hits all the right notes with fresh herbs and just the perfect hint of sweetness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this soup lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to create a balanced and hearty flavor profile. Each component plays an essential role, from the tender cabbage adding crunch and color to the beef broth creating a rich, savory base.
- 1 lb ground beef (80% or 85%): This provides robust, meaty depth and satisfying protein.
- 2 Tbsp oil (divided): For browning the beef and softening the onions, adding a subtle richness.
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped): Brings sweetness and layers of flavor when sautéed.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Adds a fragrant, appetizing punch.
- 4 cups green cabbage (chopped, from about ½ large head): Offers a gentle crunch and vibrant green color.
- 1 large carrot (sliced): Adds natural sweetness and bright orange hues.
- 1 celery rib (thinly sliced): Contributes aromatic earthiness and a crunchy texture.
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes (with their juice): Brings acidity and a rich tomato base.
- 15 oz tomato sauce: Thickens the broth and deepens the tomato flavor.
- 4 cups beef broth: Creates a hearty, savory liquid foundation for the soup.
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes with a touch of warmth.
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ tsp ground black pepper (or to taste): Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuses the soup with fragrant, herbal notes.
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, or cilantro): Brings freshness and a burst of color to finish.
How to Make Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Ground Beef
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the ground beef and cook it for about 4 to 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s thoroughly browned. Don’t forget to season with half a teaspoon of salt and a quarter teaspoon of pepper to build layers of savory flavor right at the start.
Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic
Next, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, then toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions become tender and translucent. Now, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until you can smell that irresistible, fragrant aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 3: Mix in the Veggies and Simmer
This is where everything comes together. Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrot, thinly sliced celery, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir in the brown sugar, one teaspoon of salt, pepper, and the two bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for 30 minutes, allowing all the fresh flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs
Once the soup has simmered and the vegetables are tender, fish out those bay leaves. Stir in your fresh herbs of choice—whether it’s dill’s brightness, parsley’s earthiness, or cilantro’s zing—and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A dollop of sour cream on each serving is optional but highly recommended to add a creamy, tangy contrast.
How to Serve Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
This soup truly shines when topped with a few simple garnishes. A spoonful of sour cream adds creaminess that beautifully cuts through the acidity of the tomatoes. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill sprinkled on top instantly brighten the bowl. You could even add a handful of grated cheese or a swirl of chili oil if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
When it comes to sides, crusty bread or homemade garlic toast is an unbeatable match. The bread soaks up every last drop of that soul-warming broth. For a lighter option, a fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness perfectly, making your meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress it up for guests or family, try serving this Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe in fun mason jars or rustic soup bowls. Layer with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a lemon wedge on the side to brighten every bite. You can also turn it into a comforting stew by adding small potatoes or beans for an extra hearty twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup is a wonderful bonus that keeps well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
This Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe also freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Cool the soup completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it’s too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of broth or water to loosen things up and bring everything back to that perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can skip the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. For extra protein, consider adding beans or lentils. The soup will still be hearty and flavorful thanks to the cabbage and spices.
What can I substitute for fresh herbs?
If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs work as well. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Add them earlier in the cooking process to let their flavors develop.
Is this soup spicy?
No, this Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe is mild and comforting by default. If you like a bit of heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking or at the table.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic on the stovetop, then transfer everything into a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Add fresh herbs at the end for that burst of freshness.
What’s the best way to chop cabbage for this soup?
Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces to ensure it cooks evenly and remains tender yet slightly crisp. Avoid shredding it too finely, as that may make the texture too soft and mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe is a wonderful go-to for a wholesome, crowd-pleasing meal that feels cozy and nutritious all at once. It’s surprisingly simple to make with everyday ingredients, yet it delivers a powerful hit of flavor and comfort that keeps everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite soup!
Print
Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe is a comforting and hearty one-pot meal featuring ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this soup combines sautéed ground beef with cabbage, carrots, celery, and aromatic herbs, simmered together to develop deep flavors. It’s nutritious, satisfying, and can be enjoyed with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 lb ground beef (80% or 85% lean)
- 2 Tbsp oil (divided)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 4 cups green cabbage (chopped, from ½ large head)
- 1 large carrot (sliced)
- 1 celery rib (thinly sliced)
Tomato and Broth
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes (with their juice)
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
Seasonings and Herbs
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, or cilantro)
Instructions
- Sauté the ground beef: In a Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium/high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook for about 4-5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and cooked through. Season the beef with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste.
- Add onion and garlic: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pot, then add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become tender. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add vegetables and simmer: Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrot, celery, canned diced tomatoes with juice, tomato sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and bay leaves. Mix everything well and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften.
- Add herbs and finish: After simmering, remove and discard the bay leaves. Stir in the fresh chopped herbs such as dill, parsley, or cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the soup hot, optionally topped with a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Notes
- You can swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for variation.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and also freeze nicely.
- Serving with crusty bread or a side salad makes this soup a complete meal.
