Can I Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes. Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is an excellent make-ahead recipe because the flavors have additional time to blend as the soup rests. Prepare the soup as directed, cool it promptly, and transfer it to airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you are ready to eat, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop or heat individual portions in the microwave until thoroughly hot. If the broth thickens during storage, simply stir in a splash of broth or water while reheating.

What Type of Cabbage Is Best for Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup?

Fresh green cabbage is an excellent choice because it holds up well during simmering while becoming pleasantly tender. Its mild flavor also works particularly well with ground beef, tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Cut the cabbage into relatively even pieces so it cooks consistently. Although packaged shredded cabbage can save time, chopping a fresh head of green cabbage generally gives this cabbage soup a more substantial texture.

Can I Freeze Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup?

Yes. Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup freezes well, making it convenient for batch cooking and meal prep. Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze individual portions if you want convenient meals that can be thawed separately. The original recipe recommends freezing the soup for up to three months. For best results, thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating. Warm it thoroughly on the stovetop, adding a little broth if necessary to restore your preferred consistency.

Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup Recipe

Name: Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons avocado oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 3 large carrots, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef; 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped; 4 cups chicken broth or beef broth; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; Sea salt, to taste; 1 large head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 to 8 cups)

Description

Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is an easy, hearty one-pot meal made with savory ground beef, tender green cabbage, fresh tomatoes, carrots, garlic, and Italian seasoning simmered in a flavorful broth. It is a comforting, protein-rich soup that is perfect for family dinners and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons avocado oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 large carrots, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
4 cups chicken broth or beef broth
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Sea salt, to taste
1 large head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 to 8 cups)

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Instructions

Add the avocado oil to a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven and heat over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Move the vegetables to one side of the pot and add the ground beef. Let the beef brown undisturbed for about 3 minutes.
Flip the ground beef and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. Break the meat into smaller pieces with a spatula and stir it together with the vegetables.
Add the chopped tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and chopped cabbage. Stir well. The pot may look very full at first, but the cabbage will wilt as it cooks.
Cover the pot and bring the soup to a full boil. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
Simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have developed.
Taste the Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup and season with sea salt and additional black pepper as needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Fresh green cabbage provides the best flavor and texture.
Chicken broth, beef broth, or vegetable broth can be used depending on your preference.
Two cans of diced tomatoes can be substituted for the fresh tomatoes.
Ground Italian sausage can replace the ground beef for a richer, more seasoned flavor.
Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy variation.
Celery, potatoes, green beans, bell peppers, cauliflower, broccoli, spinach, or beans can be added for a heartier soup.
Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of tomato paste for a stronger tomato flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
The soup can be frozen in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/5 of recipe
Calories: 340
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: Varies by broth and added salt
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: Not specified
Unsaturated Fat: Not specified
Trans Fat: Not specified
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: Not specified