When the hustle and bustle of the week leaves you craving comfort, nothing fits the bill quite like my One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup. The moment the rich aroma of caramelized onions and sautéed garlic fills your kitchen, you’ll know you’re in for a treat. This dish transforms everyday ingredients into a heartwarming meal that even the pickiest eaters will embrace.
What I love most about this recipe is its sheer simplicity and versatility. Not only does it come together quickly—perfect for those busy weeknights—but it also invites you to tailor it to your taste and pantry staples. Whether you stick to the hearty beef and crisp cabbage or toss in a few extra veggies you have on hand, this soup promises satisfaction with every spoonful.
So grab your biggest pot, and let’s dive into a recipe that will make you feel at home, no matter what the day has thrown your way.
Why is One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup a must-try?
Hearty Comfort: This soup combines tender beef with crunchy cabbage, creating a warm hug in a bowl.
Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s perfect for those hectic weeknights.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap out ground beef for turkey or add your favorite vegetables for a customized dish.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will rave about this satisfying recipe, making it a dinner table favorite.
Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well in the fridge or freezer, with flavors deepening over time, making it ideal for lunch leftovers too!
One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Avocado Oil – Great for sautéing vegetables; olive oil makes a fine substitute.
• Large Onion – Adds a depth of flavor; chop into medium pieces for even cooking.
• Medium Carrots (3) – Enhances sweetness and texture; slice into half-moons for best results.
• Garlic Cloves (6, minced) – Boosts aroma and taste; freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor.
• Ground Beef (1 lb) – Serves as the main protein source; choose 85/15 or 90/10 for good flavor and fat balance. You can substitute with turkey or chicken, but consider adding more oil.
• Diced Tomatoes (4 large) – Provides acidity and richness to the broth; use fresh or canned as needed.
• Chicken Broth (5 cups) – Forms the soup’s base; opt for low-sodium to control salt levels.
• Italian Seasoning (1.5 tbsp) – Adds aromatic notes; oregano or thyme can be good alternatives.
• Black Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Offers a hint of heat; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
• Bay Leaves (2) – Infuses depth during cooking; don’t forget to remove before serving.
• Sea Salt – Season to taste, ideally added at the end to control sodium levels.
• Cabbage (1 head, chopped into 1-inch pieces) – The main vegetable, which adds bulk; add towards the end to preserve its crunch.
Expert Tip: Keep your ingredients handy for this One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup to create a delectable, family-friendly meal in no time!
How to Make One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup
Prep Vegetables: Begin by dicing the onion, slicing the carrots into half-moons, mincing the garlic, and chopping the cabbage into 1-inch pieces. Set the diced tomatoes aside for later.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and carrots, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Brown Beef: Increase the heat to high and add the ground beef to the pot. Cook the beef for 5-6 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks, until it is browned and caramelized for enriched flavor.
Combine Ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and bay leaves. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil for about 3-4 minutes.
Simmer with Cabbage: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the chopped cabbage, stir, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 minutes, making sure to stir halfway through to prevent sticking.
Final Seasoning: Remove the bay leaves, taste the soup, and adjust the salt according to your preference. Serve the soup hot in bowls, ready to be enjoyed!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup
- Perfect Timing: Avoid adding cabbage too early; it should stay crisp and fresh. Add towards the end for the best texture.
- Brown the Beef: Ensure you adequately brown the beef to enhance flavor; this caramelization is key to a rich broth.
- Season Wisely: Taste and adjust the seasoning after simmering. The soup’s flavors concentrate as it cooks, so adjust salt and spices.
- Thicken or Thin: If the soup turns out too thick, simply add more broth; for a thinner soup, simmer uncovered to allow it to reduce.
- Customize Freely: Feel free to mix in different veggies or proteins. This One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is versatile and adapts well to what you have on hand!
One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup Variations
Feel free to play with the ingredients to make this soup your own and cater to your family’s tastes.
- Ground Turkey: Substitute ground beef for turkey for a leaner, healthier option. It still delivers great flavor!
- Extra Veggies: Toss in green beans, bell peppers, or potatoes for added heartiness and texture. Every bit of color counts on your plate.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to ramp up the heat. This twist can awaken your taste buds in a delightful way.
- Herb Swaps: Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro instead of Italian seasoning for a refreshing twist. A little brightness can really elevate the dish!
- Coconut Milk: Stir in a can of coconut milk for a creamy, rich broth that’s both comforting and unique. This option transforms the flavor profile into something truly special.
- Lentils: For a plant-based twist, add lentils instead of beef. They cook down beautifully and maintain a savory depth in the broth.
- Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce can enhance the umami flavor of the dish. It’s a simple addition that packs a surprising punch.
- Smoke Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular for a subtle, smoky depth that will deepen the layers of flavor. It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds!
What to Serve with One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup?
When it comes to a warm bowl of comforting soup, pairing it with complementary sides elevates your meal to something truly special.
Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for soaking up every ounce of that flavorful broth; a fresh baguette or sourdough adds a delightful crunch.
Garlic Breadsticks: These soft, buttery sticks are perfect for dipping in the soup, bringing an aromatic boost to your dining experience.
Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the hearty flavors, balancing your plate wonderfully.
Steamed Broccoli: The bright green color and mild flavor make this veggie an excellent nutritious companion, offering both vibrancy and health benefits.
Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy texture and rich flavor complement the savory broth, making your meal feel even more indulgent.
Cheesy Cornbread: A delightful addition that introduces a touch of sweetness, it pairs flawlessly with the savory elements of the soup.
Apple Pie: For dessert, this classic offers a sweet finish; the warmth of cinnamon and apples echoes the comforting flavors of the soup.
Sweet Tea: A refreshing sip of sweet tea ties the meal together; its subtle sweetness balances the savory soup perfectly, creating harmony on your plate.
Whether it’s a light salad or a warm loaf of bread, these pairings will enhance the heartiness of your One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup. Enjoy a wonderfully cozy dinner experience!
How to Store and Freeze One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors will deepen as it rests, making leftovers even tastier.
Freezer: This hearty soup freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and enjoy for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot throughout. If the soup thickens, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Airtight Guidance: Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing it in containers to avoid condensation, which can affect its texture and flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can chop the vegetables, including the onion, carrots, and cabbage, up to 24 hours in advance; just keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The ground beef can also be browned ahead of time and stored for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, simply combine the prepped ingredients with diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and seasonings in your pot. Heat everything through, simmer for about 30 minutes, and you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready to warm your family on a cozy evening!
One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I pick the right cabbage?
Absolutely! Look for heads of cabbage that are heavy for their size with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any with dark spots or wilting, as these may be past their prime. For the best flavor, opt for a fresh, vibrant green color.
How should I store the soup?
You can store this One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors actually improve over time as they meld together! Just make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing it up.
Can I freeze One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup?
Definitely! To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat it on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much during the reheating process.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
No worries! If you find that your soup has thickened too much, simply add a little chicken broth or water while simmering to reach your preferred consistency. Allow it a few minutes to heat through after adding the liquid.
Is this soup suitable for my dog?
Great question! While garlic is safe for humans, it can be toxic to dogs in larger amounts. If you’re considering sharing a little bit with your furry friend, make sure to leave out the garlic and excess seasoning, as well as check with your vet for any allergies or specific dietary needs.
Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
The more the merrier! You can certainly swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that if you use a very lean meat, you may need to add a bit more oil when browning to prevent it from drying out.
One-Pot Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by dicing the onion, slicing the carrots into half-moons, mincing the garlic, and chopping the cabbage into 1-inch pieces. Set the diced tomatoes aside for later.
- In a large pot, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and carrots, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to high and add the ground beef to the pot. Cook the beef for 5-6 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks, until it is browned and caramelized for enriched flavor.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and bay leaves. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil for about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the chopped cabbage, stir, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 minutes, making sure to stir halfway through to prevent sticking.
- Remove the bay leaves, taste the soup, and adjust the salt according to your preference. Serve the soup hot in bowls, ready to be enjoyed!