Beef Cabbage Soup
A hearty and comforting beef cabbage soup packed with flavorful kidney beans, stewed tomatoes, and a blend of spices. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep, this dish offers a savory, slightly spicy taste with tender vegetables and ground beef in a wholesome broth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet.
- Add chopped cabbage, celery, and onion to the skillet and cook until vegetables are slightly tender.
- Transfer the mixture to a 5-quart stock pot.
- Add the remaining ingredients: kidney beans, stewed tomatoes, chili powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup water if needed.
- Stir well and simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, until flavors meld and vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes or carrots alongside the cabbage. If you're looking for lighter options, ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef. Adjust the chili powder based on spice preference, or try adding cumin for an extra flavor boost. This soup is flexible and can incorporate other vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftovers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this beef cabbage soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or cornbread, which complements the flavors perfectly and makes for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Cabbage Soup contains roughly 357 calories, with 21g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (89% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and protein (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1157mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can definitely adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef first, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well blended.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply omit it entirely. Increase the amount of beans or add lentils for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. This makes for a delicious and filling vegetarian dish that everyone will enjoy.
What can I serve with beef cabbage soup?
This soup is quite versatile and can be served with various sides. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a satisfying meal. Additionally, it goes well with cheesy quesadillas or biscuits, making it a great option for a cozy family dinner or game day gathering.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).