If you’re craving something warm, satisfying, and packed with flavor, then this Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Tomatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender cabbage, perfectly cooked ground beef, and rich stewed tomatoes all coming together in one pot to create a meal that feels like a big, comforting hug. This soup is not only incredibly easy to whip up but also a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, filling dinner that never feels boring. Whether it’s chilly weather outside or you simply want a bowl of goodness, this soup delivers on both taste and heartiness every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this soup is a breeze, and each one plays a special role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the crunch and subtle sweetness of cabbage to the robust taste of ground beef, these components blend beautifully to make a memorable dish.
- Large cabbage: The star vegetable of the soup, offering sweetness and a tender bite once cooked.
- Small onions, diced: Add a gentle sharpness and depth of flavor as they soften in the broth.
- Two cans of stewed tomatoes: Bring a rich, tangy base that gives the soup its warm red hue and natural sweetness.
- One pouch of Lipton Onion Soup Mix (any flavor): An easy shortcut to layering savory onion flavor and seasoning throughout the soup.
- Large celery stalk, finely chopped: Adds a mild crunch and a fresh, aromatic note to balance the richness.
- Ground beef (1-2 pounds): Provides hearty protein and a satisfying meaty texture that makes the soup filling.
- Water: The base of the soup that ties all ingredients together and controls the consistency.
- Your choice of spices: Customize with pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or herbs to make the soup your own.
How to Make Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broth with Vegetables
Start by filling a large saucepan halfway with water and bringing it to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, add the large cabbage, diced onions, and finely chopped celery. Simmer these veggies until they begin to soften, releasing their natural flavors into the broth and forming a wonderful aromatic base.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
While your vegetables soften, take a separate skillet and brown the ground beef fully. Cooking it until nicely caramelized enhances the meat’s flavor. Be sure to drain any excess fat afterward to keep the soup from becoming greasy, keeping the flavors balanced.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Soup Mix
Back to the saucepan, stir in the two cans of stewed tomatoes along with the entire pouch of Lipton Onion Soup Mix. This combination infuses a rich tang and a savory punch that brings out the best in the cabbage and beef, creating complexity in every bite.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Now, pour the browned ground beef into your soup pot. Stir everything together carefully, ensuring the beef is evenly distributed throughout the tomato-cabbage base. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Season to Perfection
This is your moment to personalize the soup with your favorite spices. Feel free to add freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, a pinch of paprika, or even some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a gentle heat. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance that suits your palate.
Step 6: Final Simmer and Serve
After seasoning, let the soup simmer just a bit longer to deepen the flavor fusion. Once it looks inviting and smells amazing, your Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Tomatoes Recipe is ready to ladle out into bowls and enjoy.
How to Serve Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
While the soup is satisfying as is, garnishing can elevate the experience. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few basil leaves add a pop of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can add creamy richness when you want a little indulgence.
Side Dishes
Since this soup is packed with flavor, pairing it with simple sides works best. Crusty bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for dipping. A side salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the hearty warmth of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in individual bread bowls. It adds a rustic charm and makes the meal feel extra special. You can also top each serving with homemade croutons or sprinkle toasted nuts for added texture and an unexpected crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Tomatoes Recipe keeps amazingly well in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the freshness and flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup successfully to enjoy later. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It will keep for up to three months, making it a convenient choice for meal prep or leftovers that taste just as good warmed up.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator if possible. Warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Re-season if needed, as flavors can mellow during storage, ensuring your soup still tastes fresh and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works wonderfully in this soup. Just be sure to brown it well to develop flavor before adding it to the broth.
Is this soup spicy?
By default, this Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Tomatoes Recipe is mild. However, you can easily add spices like crushed red pepper or cayenne to bring some heat if you like.
Can I substitute fresh tomatoes for canned stewed tomatoes?
Yes, but canned stewed tomatoes give more consistent flavor and a slightly thicker texture. If using fresh tomatoes, cook them down longer to concentrate their taste.
How do I know when the cabbage is cooked perfectly?
The cabbage should be tender but still hold some bite, not mushy. Simmer it until it’s easy to pierce with a fork but maintains its shape and slight crunch.
What spices work best with this soup?
Classic choices include black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. You can also experiment with herbs like oregano or rosemary to tailor the flavor to your liking.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats coming home to a bowl of this Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Tomatoes Recipe that feels like it was made just for you. It’s hearty, wholesome, and full of love in every spoonful. Make it your go-to comfort food—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients can create something so spectacularly satisfying!
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Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful cabbage soup featuring tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a rich blend of tomatoes and spices. Perfect for a comforting meal that is easy to prepare in under an hour.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large cabbage, chopped
- 2 small onions, diced
- 1 large celery stalk, finely chopped
Proteins
- 1–2 pounds ground beef
Pantry Items
- 2 cans stewed tomatoes
- 1 pouch Lipton Onion Soup Mix (any flavor)
- Water (enough to fill saucepan halfway)
- Spices of your choice (such as salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder)
Instructions
- Boil Water: Begin by filling a large saucepan halfway with water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, and finely chopped celery to the boiling water. Reduce heat and simmer until the vegetables start to soften, about 10-15 minutes.
- Brown Ground Beef: While vegetables are simmering, heat a separate skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, until fully browned and no longer pink inside. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Tomatoes and Soup Mix: Stir in the two cans of stewed tomatoes and the entire pouch of Lipton Onion Soup Mix into the saucepan with the softened vegetables, mixing thoroughly.
- Combine Beef with Soup: Add the cooked ground beef into the saucepan with the vegetable and tomato mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer Soup: Allow the soup to simmer together for an additional 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors and heat through completely.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with your choice of spices such as salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference. Serve the soup hot and enjoy.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of ground beef depending on your preference for a meatier or lighter soup.
- For a spicier soup, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Using low-sodium stewed tomatoes can help control the salt content.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
