Cabbage soup with ground beef is a comforting and wholesome dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a meal prep recipe to enjoy throughout the week, this flavorful soup is an excellent choice. Packed with tender vegetables, savory beef, and a rich broth, it’s a satisfying dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ head of cabbage, chopped
4 carrots, sliced
4 cups beef broth
2 cups water
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Use a spoon to break it up into smaller crumbles. Once browned, remove any excess fat and set the beef aside.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic.
Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped cabbage and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
Simmer the Soup: Return the browned ground beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and water. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve hot.
Enjoy this hearty and comforting cabbage soup with ground beef!
Serving and Storage Tips for Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
Cabbage soup with ground beef is a versatile and convenient dish that tastes even better with thoughtful serving and proper storage. Follow these tips to make the most of this hearty soup.
Serving Tips
- Garnish for Extra Flavor:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, dill, or green onions on top for a burst of freshness.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a creamy touch.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese, like Parmesan or cheddar, for added richness.
- Pair with Sides:
- Serve with crusty bread, rolls, or crackers to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Customize the Bowl:
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
- Stir in hot sauce or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration:
- Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing:
- Place the soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Label the container with the date to track freshness.
- Reheating:
- For small portions, reheat in the microwave, stirring every 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- For larger portions, reheat in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly warmed.
- Add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens during storage.
Pro Tip for Storage
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider undercooking the vegetables slightly. This way, they retain their texture and don’t become overly soft when reheated.
With these serving and storage tips, your cabbage soup with ground beef will remain fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy anytime. Whether you’re savoring it immediately or saving it for later, this dish is as convenient as it is delicious!
FAQs About Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef
1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Each option will bring a unique flavor while maintaining the hearty quality of the soup.
2. Is cabbage soup with ground beef keto-friendly?
Absolutely! This recipe is low in carbs and high in fiber and protein, making it an excellent choice for those following a keto or low-carb diet. To ensure it stays keto-friendly, avoid adding starchy vegetables like potatoes or beans.
3. How can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
To make a vegetarian or vegan version, simply skip the ground beef and replace it with plant-based protein like lentils, tofu, or crumbled tempeh. Swap the beef broth for vegetable broth to keep it vegan-friendly.
4. Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes! Cabbage soup with ground beef is perfect for meal prep. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. The flavors tend to deepen over time, making it even tastier when reheated.