Cabbage And Hamburger Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that’s not only filling but also packed with nutrients, Cabbage and Hamburger Soup is a perfect choice. This cozy, flavorful soup combines the richness of ground beef with the crunch of cabbage, creating a balance of textures that will keep you coming back for more. It’s a meal that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for a chilly day. Whether you’re cooking for a family or prepping meals for the week, this soup is an excellent option to add to your repertoire.

What makes this soup stand out is its versatility. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or what you have in your pantry. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder-meaning minimal clean-up for you! You’ll be able to savor a warm, hearty meal without much hassle.

Cabbage And Hamburger Soup Recipe

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Cabbage and Hamburger Soup! It’s a one-pot meal that can be whipped up in about 45 minutes, making it an easy option for busy days when you still want something comforting.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to create this satisfying soup:

• 1 lb Ground Beef: The heart of the soup, providing protein and richness. You can also swap for turkey or chicken if you prefer leaner meat.
• 1 small head of cabbage: Chopped into bite-sized pieces. Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants.
• 1 large onion: Diced, this adds a savory base to the soup.
• 2 carrots: Peeled and sliced, carrots bring a sweet crunch and a pop of color.
• 3 cloves garlic: Minced for a punch of flavor.
• 4 cups beef broth: You can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth if preferred.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: This adds a subtle acidity and a bit of sweetness to balance the richness of the beef.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: For earthy, herbal flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A fragrant herb that complements the cabbage and beef.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adjust based on how much spice you like.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Add more to taste.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables.
• Optional additions: Red pepper flakes for some heat, or a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the flavors at the end.

Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps:

1. Brown The Beef

   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat once it’s browned.

2. Sauté The Veggies

   • Add the diced onion, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Sauté them in the beef drippings for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
   • This will help build the flavor base of the soup.

3. Add The Broth And Tomatoes

   • Pour in the beef broth and canned tomatoes (with their juices).
   • Stir to combine, ensuring there are no bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.

4. Season The Soup

   • Add the oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well, allowing the herbs to infuse their flavors into the soup.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

5. Add The Cabbage

   • Add the chopped cabbage to the pot. You might think it’s too much cabbage, but it wilts down significantly as it cooks.
   • Stir it into the soup and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well combined.

6. Taste And Adjust

   • Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. If you like a little more heat, now is the time to add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
   • If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.

7. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, and for an extra touch, you can sprinkle some fresh parsley on top or add a dollop of sour cream.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup plays a key role, both in terms of flavor and nutrition:

• Ground Beef: A great source of protein and iron, it provides the richness that balances the earthy flavors of the vegetables.
• Cabbage: Not just for texture, cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins C and K. It’s also a powerful antioxidant and aids digestion due to its high fiber content.
• Carrots: These bring in a natural sweetness and are packed with beta-carotene, an antioxidant that converts into vitamin A in the body.
• Beef Broth: Acts as the soup’s base, providing depth and richness. You can choose low-sodium versions if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Garlic and Onion: The aromatics! These two work together to form a flavor foundation that makes the soup more savory and comforting.

Expert Tips

To take your Cabbage and Hamburger Soup to the next level, here are a few pro tips:

• Use Lean Meat: If you want a lighter version, opt for lean ground beef or ground turkey. You can even use ground chicken for a healthier twist.
• Slow Cooker Option: This soup works wonderfully in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the veggies, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are convenient, fresh oregano and thyme will make the soup even more aromatic.
• Balance Flavors: Don’t be afraid to add a bit of acidity at the end. A squeeze of lemon juice or a teaspoon of vinegar can really brighten the soup and balance the rich flavors.

Recipe Variations

This Cabbage and Hamburger Soup is super adaptable. Here are some variations to try:

• Add More Vegetables: If you’re a veggie lover, consider adding potatoes, parsnips, or even zucchini. These veggies would add more body and nutrients to the soup.
• Add Beans: For extra protein and fiber, throw in some beans-kidney beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas could work wonderfully here.
• Spicy Version: For those who like heat, add jalapeños or a spoonful of sriracha to the pot. This adds a nice kick without overpowering the dish.
• Low-Carb Version: For a lower-carb option, skip the carrots or replace them with cauliflower florets. Cauliflower will mimic the texture of potatoes without the carbs.
• Tomato Paste: Add a tablespoon or two of tomato paste to the base for a deeper, richer tomato flavor.

Final Words

Cabbage and Hamburger Soup is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s filling, nutritious, and incredibly easy to make. It brings together a simple blend of ingredients that complement each other in flavor and texture, making each spoonful comforting and satisfying. And whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, it’s a recipe you can rely on to keep everyone happy.