Hearty Meaty Cabbage Soup

A comforting, budget-friendly soup loaded with ground beef, cabbage, tomatoes, and vegetables. Perfect for meal prep and even better the next day.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6–8

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 oz/410 g) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 can (8 oz/225 g) tomato sauce
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Stir in the cabbage and cook for 2–3 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, thyme, bay leaf, and Worcestershire sauce.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until the cabbage and vegetables are tender.
6. Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup cooked rice or barley
• 1–2 diced potatoes
• 1 cup frozen green beans or corn
• A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty bread or dinner rolls
• Cornbread
• Grilled cheese sandwiches
• A simple green salad

Tip: For an even richer flavor, make the soup a day ahead. As it rests, the flavors meld together and become even more delicious.