Healthy Cabbage Ground Beef Soup

Warm soup in a large bowl on a cold evening — it is very soothing and most of all, packed with all the good health-giving ingredients that make you feel great from within. I have cooked this Healthy Cabbage Ground Beef Soup more times than I can probably remember, and I am still surprised with every single time how these simple ingredients can mix together and make something so hearty, cozy and nourishing. It is the kind of dish that invites you to sit down, take a break, and enjoy every bite.

A Quick Introduction

This Easy Cabbage Beef Soup is a homestyle classic with a healthy twist. It is made of lean beef, tender cabbage, fresh vegetables, and a light but filling tomato-based broth, which is very delicious. Just imagine the perfect fusion of unhealthy food and healthy eating — filling like stew, yet light enough for any season.

Why This Recipe Is Special

This soup is one of my favorites, mainly due to its forgiving nature. You can add any veggies you like, season to your taste, and it will still be great. Besides, it is also one of those one-pot wonders—less mess to clean up, more comfort. It does not matter if you are cooking for the next week or just want to eat something hot and comforting; this recipe fits the bill.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed but light: Iron-rich and savory broth that is not at all cohey.
• Healthy and balanced: Protein-rich, full of fiber, and low-carb.
• Budget-friendly: Everyday ingredients used are such that they do not burn a hole in your pocket.
• Meal-prep friendly: It can be said that it has doubled its taste the following day.
• Family-approved: Even picky eaters enjoy this one — trust me!

What You’ll Need

Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven: This is your main cooking vessel — big enough to hold all the veggies and broth.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For breaking up the ground beef and stirring the soup evenly.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: You’ll need these for chopping your cabbage and vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To help you get your seasonings just right (though a little “eyeballing” works too).

Ingredients

Serves: 6–8

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups (700 ml) low-sodium beef broth
• 2 cups (480 ml) water
• 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz / 227 g) tomato sauce
• ½ head of cabbage, chopped (about 5 cups / 450 g)
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color works)
• 1 tsp (5 g) salt, or to taste
• ½ tsp (2 g) black pepper
• 1 tsp (2 g) smoked paprika (optional, but adds depth)
• 1 tsp (2 g) Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp (1 g) red pepper flakes (optional for a little kick)

How to Make Healthy Cabbage Ground Beef Soup

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Pour some olive oil into a large pot and heat it up on the medium flame. Add the diced onions and cook them until they become soft and clear — around 3 minutes should be enough. Besides that, add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, only until the aroma is released. This is the basic taste of your soup, so take your time.

Step 2: Brown the beef

Put the ground beef in the pot. Use a spoon to break it apart and cook it until it is no longer pink. You will notice that tiny bits of brown will start to form and stick to the bottom—that is where all the flavor is. If you have too much fat, you can skim it off, but I normally leave some for richness.

Step 3: Add veggies and seasonings

Combine the carrots, celery, and bell pepper with the other ingredients already in the pot. Put salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning on top. Allow the mixture to cook for a few minutes—when the vegetables just start to soften, that’s when you will smell the spices blooming.

Step 4: Pour in liquids and cabbage

Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, and water. Mix thoroughly, then heap on the chopped cabbage. Initially, it may seem like an excessive amount, but believe me—the cabbage shrinks down beautifully as it cooks on the stovetop.

Step 5: Simmer and let flavors meld

Make the soup to a slow boil, then turn down the heat to low. Place a lid on the pot and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, and the cabbage will be soft and the broth will be rich and tasty.

Step 6: Taste and adjust

Before serving, taste the soup. It might just need a bit more salt or a lemon squeeze for the freshness. You can customize it according to your preference — this soup is friendly with everyone.

Serving Ideas

• Pair it with a piece of whole-wheat bread with a crust for a fulfilling meal.
• Put some fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on the top as a finishing touch.
• As an alternative comfort, serve it with a small baked potato or a side salad.

Variations & Customizations

• Low-carb option: Skip the carrots or replace them with zucchini.
• Spicy version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Extra protein: Throw in cooked lentils or kidney beans for a heartier version.
• Different meat: Try ground turkey or chicken if you prefer leaner options.

Storage & Make-Ahead

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in single portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.
• Make-ahead tip: This soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have settled — perfect for meal prepping!

Pro Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t overcook the cabbage: You want it tender but not mushy. Check it around the 25-minute mark.
• Use lean beef: It keeps the soup light but still flavorful.
• Deglaze the pot: After browning the beef, add a splash of broth and scrape up those brown bits — pure gold for flavor.
• Taste as you go: Soup is forgiving, but seasoning in layers makes a huge difference.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. It deepens the flavor beautifully.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~210
• Protein: 18 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sodium: 420 mg

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that’s comforting, hearty, and healthy, this cabbage ground beef soup is your answer. It’s one of those recipes that brings warmth to your kitchen and comfort to your table. I promise, once you make it, you’ll want to keep it in your weekly rotation.