Cabbage soup doesn’t have to taste like diet food, and this cabbage soup with ground beef is proof. It’s rich, cozy, and full of flavor, with tender cabbage, seasoned beef, tomatoes, and a savory broth.
You can make it on the stovetop, in the slow cooker, or in the Instant Pot, and it freezes beautifully for easy meals later. If you want simple comfort in a bowl, this is the one to try.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
You’ll love this cabbage soup with ground beef because it is hearty but not heavy. It fills you up, yet you still feel good after. I make it with simple store items I always have on hand, and it all cooks in one pot. That means less mess and less stress.
It’s also kind to your wallet. One pot can feed a whole family and still leave some for later. It freezes well, which makes it perfect for meal prep. And you can tweak it any way you like — add beans, toss in extra veggies, or cook it on the stovetop, in a Crock Pot, or in the Instant Pot.
What Kind of Ingredients Should I Use?
For the best flavor, I use 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef. The bit of fat adds rich taste and keeps the soup from feeling flat. Lean beef works too, but it may taste a little lighter.
Green cabbage is my go-to for classic texture and mild flavor. If I am short on time, I grab a bag of coleslaw mix and call it a win. For broth, beef broth or bone broth gives deep, savory flavor. I like low-sodium so I can control the salt.
Diced tomatoes with their juice add body and texture. If you want a smoother broth, a bit of tomato sauce blends right in. It’s simple, but each choice shapes the final bowl.
Options for Substitutions
You can easily swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken if that’s what you have on hand, and it will still taste great. If you want extra texture or protein, add kidney beans, but they are completely optional. For a new flavor twist, replace Italian seasoning with cumin and paprika for a warm, bold touch. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, or toss in carrots, celery, or bell peppers for more color and depth—this cabbage soup with ground beef is flexible and fits real life.
Ingredients for Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
- Ground Beef
This is the heart of cabbage soup with ground beef. It adds rich flavor and makes the soup filling. - Olive Oil
A little oil helps soften the onion and build flavor at the start. It sets the base for the whole pot. - Onion (diced)
Onion adds natural sweetness and depth. I never skip it because it makes the broth taste full. - Garlic (minced or powder)
Garlic brings warm, savory notes. Even a small amount makes a big difference. - Green Cabbage (chopped or coleslaw mix)
Cabbage gives the soup its body and soft texture. It cooks down and soaks up all the flavor. - Diced Tomatoes (with liquid)
The tomatoes add brightness and light acidity. The juice helps create a balanced broth. - Tomato Sauce (optional)
Tomato sauce makes the broth smoother and richer. I add it when I want deeper color and taste. - Beef Broth or Bone Broth
This forms the base of the soup. Bone broth adds extra richness and depth. - Italian Seasoning
This blend gives a cozy, classic flavor. It ties the beef and cabbage together. - Bay Leaves
Bay leaves add subtle aroma while the soup simmers. Just remember to remove them before serving. - Salt
Salt enhances all the other flavors. I add it slowly and taste as I go. - Black Pepper
Pepper adds gentle heat and balance. It wakes up the broth without overpowering it. - Kidney Beans (optional)
Beans add extra protein and texture. They are great if you want a heartier bowl. - Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
Parsley adds a fresh finish at the end. It brightens the whole soup right before serving.
How to Make Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring now and then, until it turns soft and light golden. This step builds the base flavor, so don’t rush it.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef right into the pot with the onions. Break it up with a spoon and season with salt and black pepper. Cook until it is fully browned and no pink remains, about 6–8 minutes. If there is too much grease, carefully drain some off so the soup does not feel heavy.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth & Seasonings
Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice. If you want a richer broth, add the tomato sauce now. Pour in the beef broth, then add Italian seasoning and bay leaves. Give everything a good stir so the flavors can start to blend.
Step 4: Add the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage and gently press it down into the liquid. It may look like too much at first, but don’t worry. Cabbage shrinks a lot as it cooks.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then lower the heat. Let it simmer for 25–35 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but not mushy. Stir once in a while to keep everything cooking evenly.
Step 6: Final Touches
Remove the bay leaves before serving. Taste the soup and adjust the salt or pepper if needed. Finish with fresh parsley for a bright, fresh touch. Now your cabbage soup with ground beef is ready to enjoy.
How Long to Cook the Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
If you are making cabbage soup with ground beef on the stovetop, let it simmer for 25–35 minutes. The cabbage should be soft but still hold its shape. I like to taste a piece at the 25-minute mark to check the texture.
In the slow cooker, cook on High for 2–3 hours or Low for 4–6 hours. For best flavor, brown the beef and onion first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. This works great on busy days when you want dinner ready without standing by the stove. For the Instant Pot, pressure cook for 20 minutes, then let it release naturally for 5 minutes before doing a quick release. The timing stays simple no matter which method you choose.
Tips for Perfect Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
Brown the beef well at the start. That deep color means deep flavor. Do not rush this step, because it builds the soul of the soup.
Keep an eye on the cabbage. It should be tender, not mushy. If you want richer taste, use bone broth. Add beans only if you want a thicker, heartier bowl. I also like to let the soup rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. The flavors settle and blend, like a good story that gets better with time.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
Do not skip browning the beef. Pale meat means less flavor. Also, be careful with salt early on, since broth reduces as it cooks.
Cut the cabbage into even pieces so it cooks at the same rate. Always remove the bay leaves before serving. And if you use the Instant Pot, do not overcook it. Too much pressure time can make the cabbage too soft.
What to Serve With Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
Crusty Bread
A thick slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich broth. I always keep extra on the side because no one stops at one dip.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread adds bold, buttery flavor. It turns cabbage soup with ground beef into a cozy comfort meal.
Side Salad
A fresh green salad keeps the meal light and balanced. The crisp bite pairs well with the warm soup.
Cornbread
Cornbread adds a soft texture and a hint of sweet. That sweet and savory mix just works.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts add color and texture. They make the plate feel full and hearty.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A grilled cheese on the side feels like pure comfort. The melted cheese and savory soup are a perfect match.
Mashed Potatoes
If you want a bigger meal, serve it with mashed potatoes. It makes the dinner extra filling.
Rice
A scoop of rice can turn it into a cabbage roll–style bowl. It soaks up flavor and makes each bite more satisfying.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let the cabbage soup with ground beef cool fully before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. If the soup has thickened, add a small splash of broth or water to loosen it. If frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for best texture.
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving (estimated):
- Calories: 300–380 (will vary based on fat content and optional beans)
- Protein: 22–28g
- Carbohydrates: 14–20g
- Fiber: 3–5g
- Fat: 18–24g
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used. Always calculate with your specific products for the most accurate results.
FAQs for Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
Can I make cabbage soup with ground beef without tomatoes?
Yes, you can skip the tomatoes. The broth will taste lighter and less rich, but the cabbage soup with ground beef will still be warm and filling.
Can I freeze cabbage soup with ground beef?
Yes, this cabbage soup with ground beef freezes very well. Store it in a sealed container for up to three months for easy meals later.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
You can use red cabbage, but green cabbage gives the best flavor and color. Red cabbage may change the soup’s look and taste slightly.
Is cabbage soup with ground beef keto-friendly?
It can be keto-friendly if you skip the beans and use low-carb tomatoes. Always check your ingredient labels to stay within your goals.
Can I add rice to cabbage soup with ground beef?
Yes, you can add rice, but cook it separately first. This keeps the rice from soaking up too much broth in the soup.
Conclusion
This cabbage soup with ground beef is the kind of simple comfort food that never fails. It is warm, hearty, and filling without feeling too heavy. You can cook it on the stovetop, in the slow cooker, or in the Instant Pot, and it still turns out great. It fits busy days, tight budgets, and cozy nights at home.
What I love most is how easy it is to make it your own. Add beans, toss in more veggies, or adjust the spices to match your taste. Save this recipe for later, share it with someone you love, and come back soon for more simple meals made for real life.
For more simple, real-life meals made with everyday ingredients, browse the rest of my easy soup and dinner recipes.
Cabbage Soup With Ground Beef
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook 5–7 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
- Add ground beef to the pot.
- Break it up with a spoon and season with salt and black pepper.
- Cook 6–8 minutes until fully browned and no pink remains.
- Drain excess grease if needed.
- Stir in diced tomatoes with their juice.
- Add tomato sauce if using.
- Pour in beef broth.
- Add Italian seasoning and bay leaves.
- Stir well to combine.
- Add chopped cabbage and gently press into the liquid.
- Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer 25–35 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Remove bay leaves.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
