Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Stewed Tomatoes Recipe
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, the Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Stewed Tomatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. This soup is a wonderful blend of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and rich stewed tomatoes, all brought together with a savory onion soup mix that elevates every bite. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want a warm, nourishing bowl, this recipe offers a satisfying balance of textures and tastes that feel like a big, cozy hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keep it simple and satisfying with these straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in building the soup’s hearty character. From the fresh crunch of cabbage to the rich depth of ground beef and the comforting acidity of stewed tomatoes, every component shines in this dish.
- Large cabbage: Adds bulk, subtle sweetness, and a lovely tender crunch when cooked just right.
- Two small onions, diced: Provides sweetness and a savory base flavor that enhances the entire soup.
- Two cans of stewed tomatoes: Brings a vibrant, slightly tangy tomato flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
- One pouch of Lipton Onion Soup Mix (any flavor): Infuses the soup with savory depth and a burst of onion goodness that’s simply irresistible.
- One large celery stalk, chopped very small: Offers a fresh, aromatic crunch without overpowering other flavors.
- Ground beef (1–2 pounds): Delivers a rich, meaty component that makes this soup filling and indulgent.
- Water: The base that brings it all together and controls the soup’s consistency.
- Spices of your choice: Customize the taste to your liking with your favorite herbs and spices for an extra pop of flavor.
How to Make Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Stewed Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Start with a flavorful vegetable broth base
Fill a large saucepan halfway with water and bring it to a boil; this will be the foundation for your soup’s light but flavorful broth.
Step 2: Soften the veggies
Add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, and finely chopped celery to the boiling water, then let everything simmer gently until the vegetables become tender but still retain a slight bite—this balance keeps the soup lively in texture.
Step 3: Brown the ground beef
While the veggies simmer, cook the ground beef in a separate skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy but maintain that hearty meat flavor.
Step 4: Combine tomatoes and soup mix for richness
Stir the stewed tomatoes and the entire pouch of Lipton Onion Soup Mix into the saucepan with the softened vegetables. This blend creates a deliciously rich and savory base that starts to come alive with flavor.
Step 5: Add the beef and simmer further
Incorporate the cooked ground beef into the saucepan, giving everything a good stir. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to marry the flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Season to taste
Finish off by seasoning the soup with your favorite spices—think black pepper, a touch of paprika, or some garlic powder to suit your taste buds perfectly. This simple step allows you to personalize the hearty cabbage soup with ground beef and stewed tomatoes recipe.
How to Serve Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Stewed Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your soup by topping it with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a bright, fresh contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a handful of shredded cheese can add delicious creaminess, balancing the savory elements beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls that are perfect for sopping up every last drop. A crisp green salad or roasted root vegetables also complement the flavors, making a wholesome, well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic touch. You could also top each bowl with crunchy croutons or lightly toasted walnuts for an unexpected textural surprise that keeps your guests guessing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the hearty cabbage soup with ground beef and stewed tomatoes recipe cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to 3 days, perfect for easy lunches or cozy dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty ziplock bags, making sure to leave some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its rich flavors and tender texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and adjust seasoning as needed—soups like this often taste even better after a day or two as the flavors deepen.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that still adds satisfying protein. Just brown it the same way you would beef, and you’ll have a lighter but equally delicious version of this hearty cabbage soup with ground beef and stewed tomatoes recipe.
What spices work best in this soup?
Classic choices include black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You could also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or dried thyme for an earthy undertone. Feel free to experiment to find your perfect seasoning combo!
Is this soup low carb or keto-friendly?
This soup is relatively low in carbs since cabbage and tomatoes are both veggies with moderate carb content. However, the Lipton Onion Soup Mix may contain some additives, so check the label if you’re strictly keto. Otherwise, it’s a filling, nutritious option.
How can I make the soup more filling?
Adding cooked rice, barley, or small pasta shapes can bulk it up even more. Alternatively, scoop in some beans or lentils for extra protein and fiber while keeping the soup hearty and satisfying.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned stewed tomatoes?
Yes! Using fresh tomatoes can brighten the flavor. You’ll want to cook them down a bit longer to achieve that rich, stewed texture, so simmer them with the onions and cabbage until they soften and release their juices.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Stewed Tomatoes Recipe—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace during chilly days or when you just need a little comfort food in your life. With its bold yet simple flavors, nourishing ingredients, and easy preparation, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. I promise it will become a favorite in your home just like it is in mine!
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Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef and Stewed Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This hearty and flavorful Cabbage Soup combines tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a rich blend of stewed tomatoes and Lipton Onion Soup Mix. Perfect for a comforting meal, it simmers everything to meld the flavors beautifully in roughly 45 minutes, serving six people generously.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large cabbage, chopped
- 2 small onions, diced
- 1 large celery stalk, chopped very small
Meat
- 1 to 2 pounds ground beef
Other
- 2 cans stewed tomatoes (about 28 ounces each)
- 1 pouch Lipton Onion Soup Mix (any flavor)
- Water (enough to fill saucepan halfway)
- Spices of your choice (e.g., salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder)
Instructions
- Boil Water: Begin by filling a large saucepan halfway with water and bringing it to a boil over medium-high heat to prepare the base for your soup.
- Simmer Vegetables: Add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, and finely chopped celery to the boiling water. Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the vegetables to simmer gently until they begin to soften, about 10-15 minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef: While the vegetables cook, heat a separate skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook it thoroughly, stirring frequently until browned and no longer pink inside. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the soup lean.
- Add Tomatoes and Soup Mix: Into the saucepan with the simmering vegetables, add the two cans of stewed tomatoes and the entire pouch of Lipton Onion Soup Mix. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Combine Meat with Soup: Transfer the cooked ground beef into the saucepan. Stir the mixture thoroughly and let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes so the flavors blend and the soup heats through.
- Season to Taste: Season the soup with your favorite spices such as salt, pepper, and any herbs or seasonings you prefer. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot cabbage soup into bowls and serve immediately for a warm and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of ground beef based on your preference for meatiness.
- For added flavor, consider incorporating bay leaves or fresh herbs during the simmering phase.
- To make this recipe more filling, serve with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- You can substitute the Lipton Onion Soup Mix with homemade onion soup seasoning to reduce sodium.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
