Best Ever Soup
A hearty and savory soup combining ground beef, cabbage, celery, and a flavorful onion and tomato base. Perfect for comforting dinners, it offers a rich taste with simple ingredients, making it ideal for family meals or batch cooking on cold days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground round and diced onion in a large pot until fully cooked.
- Add the sliced cabbage, sliced celery, Lipton onion soup mix, tomato juice, and water to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, stirring about every 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced carrots or bell peppers to the mix. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, swap out the ground round for plant-based crumbles or lentils. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for added depth. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can enhance the soup.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a comforting dinner, serve it alongside a slice of Easy Rice Casserole. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pour the soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Ever Soup contains roughly 170 calories, with 9g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (75% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1305mg per serving (57% 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 freeze the best ever soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
What can I substitute for tomato juice?
If you don’t have tomato juice, you can use crushed tomatoes or a mix of tomato paste and water. Alternatively, try using vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. Adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can help mimic the acidity of tomato juice.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground round and onion in a skillet first, then transfer to a slow cooker. Add all the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).