Hi there, I’m Jessica — a Texas-born mama of three and the heart behind Nourish Well Recipes. Let’s talk about something close to my heart (and stomach): Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup.
This isn’t your grandma’s bland cabbage soup (though bless her heart, she probably tried). This version is hearty, wholesome, and just the right amount of smoky thanks to paprika and tender ground beef. It’s one of those soups that warms you from the inside out — perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something simple, satisfying, and nourishing.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, start to finish.
- Hearty but Light: A satisfying mix of protein and veggies that won’t weigh you down.
- Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry ingredients — no fancy stuff required.
- Family-Approved: Even my picky eater (the middle child, of course) goes back for seconds.
- Great for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day.
And if you’re a fan of cozy soups, you’ll love my other favorites like Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe and Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup.
What Does Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup Taste Like?
Imagine a warm, flavorful broth filled with tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, and sweet carrots, all seasoned with smoky paprika and thyme. It’s like your favorite stuffed cabbage rolls, but without all the rolling and fuss. The flavor is both comforting and savory, with just enough tang from the tomatoes to keep things bright.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup
Here’s what makes this soup so flavorful and nourishing. I’ve added a bit more detail here so you know exactly why each ingredient matters.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Gives a silky base to brown your beef beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star of the show — choose lean ground beef for a lighter soup, or 80/20 for extra richness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a natural sweetness and depth.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic makes all the difference in flavor.
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded: The humble hero! It softens into silky ribbons that soak up the broth.
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced: For a touch of sweetness and color.
- 3 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a subtle crunch and aromatic balance.
- 6 cups beef broth: Use low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the salt. Homemade broth? Even better.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and body to the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy and grounding — ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a whisper of smoky flavor that makes this soup irresistible.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Start light, then adjust after simmering.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For garnish and a pop of freshness.
If you like heartier soups, you might also enjoy my Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe — it’s comfort in a bowl!
Step-by-Step: How to Make Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup
There’s nothing fancy about this process — just good, comforting cooking that fills your kitchen with that irresistible “what’s-for-dinner?” aroma. Let’s walk through it together, step by step.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Build Flavor
Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add one pound of ground beef.
Use a wooden spoon to break it apart into small crumbles as it cooks — this helps it brown evenly. Don’t rush this step; you want those rich brown bits on the bottom of the pot (that’s where the flavor hides!).
Continue cooking for about 6 to 8 minutes, until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. If there’s excess grease, carefully drain it off — you want a flavorful base, not a greasy one.
Pro tip: If you love hearty soups like this one, you’ll also enjoy my Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup — another comforting way to use ground beef for a filling meal.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic Until Golden
With the beef still in the pot, add one diced onion and two cloves of minced garlic. Stir them into the beef and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.
This step deepens the savory base of your Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup — think of it as layering flavor like a slow-cooked stew, but in half the time.
Your kitchen should smell amazing right about now. (If your kids wander in asking what’s cooking, you’ll know you’re on the right track.)
Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Vegetables
Now it’s time for the heart of this dish — four cups of shredded green cabbage. Add it right into the pot along with two sliced carrots and three chopped celery stalks.
Give everything a good stir, coating the vegetables with the flavorful beef mixture. Let them cook together for about 5 minutes, just until the cabbage starts to soften and the carrots take on a slight golden hue.
Don’t skip this “sweating” step — it brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and makes your soup taste like it’s been simmering all day.
If you’re a fan of comforting cabbage-based recipes, check out my Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe. It’s another cozy favorite around here!
Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes
Next, pour in six cups of beef broth — homemade or low-sodium store-bought both work great. Then, add one (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, including their juices.
Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
This is when the soup really starts to come together. The tomatoes add a tangy brightness, while the broth carries all those rich, beefy notes through every spoonful.
For that classic “savory comfort” flavor, sprinkle in:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Smoked paprika is the secret ingredient that transforms this from a simple cabbage soup into a truly memorable meal. It adds that hint of smokiness you’d expect from slow-cooked recipes like my Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, but without the waiting game.
Step 5: Simmer Low and Slow
Now bring your Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes.
This is the magical moment when all the flavors marry together — the beef infuses the broth, the vegetables soften beautifully, and the cabbage transforms into tender ribbons of comfort.
Give the soup an occasional stir so nothing sticks to the bottom.
You’ll notice the color deepen and the aroma fill your kitchen like a cozy winter evening. This is where patience pays off.
If you’re looking for another “simmer and savor” kind of meal, my Slow Cooker Chicken Fajita Soup has a similar soul-warming effect.
Step 6: Taste, Adjust, and Serve Hot
After simmering, give your soup a good taste. Add a bit more salt or pepper if you like a stronger kick. If you prefer a slightly thicker soup, remove the lid and simmer for another 5–10 minutes uncovered.
Ladle the soup into warm bowls and sprinkle each serving with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness. The combination of hearty beef, tender cabbage, and smoky broth makes every bite satisfying.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls of cozy comfort
Calories: Around 180 kcal per serving
Bonus Serving Ideas:
- Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or homemade garlic toast.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy twist.
- Serve alongside a crisp salad for a balanced dinner.
If you’re in the mood for something creamy next time, try my Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe — it’s another family favorite that brings instant comfort.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup is as simple as it is rewarding. It’s one of those meals that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen — even when you didn’t.
With a few basic ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a nourishing, flavor-packed soup that’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or cozy weekends at home.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup
- Don’t skip the browning: It adds deep, savory flavor to the broth.
- Adjust thickness: Want it thicker? Simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes. Prefer it lighter? Add a splash more broth.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
- Add-ins: A handful of cooked rice or quinoa turns it into a heartier meal.
- Freezing tip: Cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Storage for Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup
Let the soup cool before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, just warm it on the stove over medium heat — add a little extra broth if it thickens.
You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. I like to freeze single servings for quick lunches. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works beautifully for a lighter version — check out my Ground Turkey Soup for a similar twist.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the beef first, then toss everything into the slow cooker on low for 6–7 hours.
Can I add potatoes or beans?
Sure thing! Add diced potatoes or a can of white beans for extra texture and heartiness.
Conclusion
There’s something beautifully comforting about a big pot of Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup simmering on the stove. It’s simple, nourishing, and made with love — the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table (even the ones who claim they don’t like cabbage).
If you try this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment or tag me on Instagram — I’d love to see your bowl of cozy goodness.
And if you’re on a soup streak, your next must-try is Crockpot White Chicken Chili Soup.
Let’s keep nourishing well, one comforting soup at a time.
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Print
Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup – Cozy, Hearty, and Delicious
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup is a comforting, hearty dish made with tender ground beef, wholesome vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s easy to make and perfect for a nourishing weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Stir in the cabbage, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Add thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
You can add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat or stir in a handful of cooked rice for a heartier version.
