Cabbage Soup with Hamburger

Cabbage soup with hamburger is a hearty, comforting dish that combines ground beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful herbs into a nutritious meal. This soup is not only easy to make but also budget-friendly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 small bell pepper, diced
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions

1. Cook the Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add Vegetables: Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, diced celery, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Cabbage and Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried thyme, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and flavors are well blended.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot. It’s perfect with a slice of crusty bread!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or potatoes for extra nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
• Swap the Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef with plant-based protein or omit it entirely and increase the vegetable content.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
   Yes, frozen vegetables can be used as a convenient substitute.
2. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
   Ensure that the beef broth is gluten-free and omit any ingredients that may contain gluten.
3. What can I serve with this soup?
   It pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad.
4. Can I use a slow cooker?
   Yes, brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
5. How do I know when the cabbage is done?
   The cabbage should be tender but still slightly crunchy, depending on your preference.
6. Can I add pasta or rice to the soup?
   Yes, you can add cooked pasta or rice towards the end of cooking for added texture.
7. Is this soup good for meal prep?
   Yes, it stores well and can be reheated easily for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
8. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
   Yes, fresh herbs can be used. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.
9. How can I make it low-carb?
   Skip the carrots and any other starchy vegetables.
10. What if I don’t have beef broth?
    Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute.

Conclusion

Cabbage soup with hamburger is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for families and individuals alike. Its flexibility allows for various adaptations, making it suitable for different dietary preferences. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy a warm bowl of comfort on chilly days or anytime you’re craving something nourishing!

Print