Hearty Tomato Cabbage Soup w/ Lean Ground Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Craving something hearty, healthy, and utterly delicious without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further! Our Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Here are four irresistible reasons why this recipe is about to become your new weeknight superstar:

• Wholesomely Delicious & Nutritious: Packed with vibrant vegetables and lean protein, this soup is a powerhouse of goodness. It’s naturally low in carbs, high in protein, and bursting with flavors that will make you forget it’s incredibly healthy. Say hello to guilt-free comfort!
• Lightning Fast & Effortless: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 30, you can have a gourmet-tasting meal on the table in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, simple, but still incredibly satisfying.
• Budget-Friendly & Accessible: No exotic ingredients here! This recipe uses everyday staples you likely already have in your pantry and fridge, making it kind to your wallet. It’s a smart choice for deliciousness that doesn’t break the bank.
• Keto-Friendly & Gluten-Free Goodness: For those following specific dietary paths, rejoice! This Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef is a fantastic keto-friendly option and completely gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy a bowl of comforting deliciousness without compromise.

Unleash the Flavor: Your New Favorite Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef!

Picture this: the days are getting shorter, the air is crisp, and all you want is a bowl of something warm, comforting, and utterly delicious. But wait, you’re short on time and don’t want to sacrifice health for convenience. Sounds familiar? Well, get ready to have your culinary world rocked because we’re about to introduce you to the ultimate solution: a vibrant, robust, and incredibly easy Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef!

This isn’t just any soup; it’s a symphony of savory beef, tender cabbage, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic spices, all simmering together to create a soul-satisfying meal. It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell amazing and your tummy happy. Forget bland, watery soups – this one is rich, flavorful, and incredibly hearty. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, our step-by-step guide will help you whip up this healthy, keto-friendly, and gluten-free wonder in no time. Let’s dive in and transform simple ingredients into something spectacular!

Gather Your Goodness: Ingredients for Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef

Ready to make some magic? Here’s everything you’ll need to create this incredibly comforting and flavorful Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef. We’ve kept it simple, wholesome, and packed with goodness!

• 🥬 5 oz shredded Cabbage (~2 cups)
• 🥩 8 oz Lean Ground Beef (~1 cup)
• 🍅 8 oz canned Crushed Tomatoes (~1 cup)
• 🧅 ½ medium Red Onion, diced
• 🧄 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 🥣 4 cups Beef Broth (low sodium preferred)
• 🫒 4 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 🌿 1 Bay Leaf
• 🌶️ 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 🌱 1 teaspoon Thyme
• 🧂 1 teaspoon Salt
• 🖤 ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper

These humble ingredients combine to create a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition, proving that simple can indeed be spectacular. Get ready to turn these pantry staples into a delicious meal!

Whip It Up! Detailed Directions for Your Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef

Making this delightful Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef is a breeze! Follow these detailed steps to bring a bowl of warmth and flavor to your table:

1. Heat Things Up: Begin by placing a large, sturdy pot or a deep saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and let it shimmer gently, indicating it’s ready for action.
2. Sauté & Sizzle: Carefully add the shredded cabbage, lean ground beef, and diced red onion to the warmed oil. Stir these ingredients frequently for about 5 minutes. Your goal here is to brown the beef thoroughly and allow the cabbage to begin softening and wilting. As it cooks, sprinkle in a pinch of salt, the paprika, and the black pepper to infuse those early flavors.
3. Garlic’s Grand Entrance: Once the beef is browned and the cabbage is tender-crisp, stir in the minced garlic. Continue cooking for just one more minute. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen is filled with that irresistible, sweet garlic aroma – try not to drool yet!
4. Liquid Gold & Herbaceous Harmony: Pour in the 4 cups of beef broth. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot with your spoon; this process, called deglazing, lifts all those caramelized, flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, adding incredible depth to your soup. Next, add the crushed tomatoes and the bay leaf. Season with the thyme. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Simmer to Perfection: Let your Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef gently bubble for 15 to 20 minutes. This simmering time is crucial for all the ingredients to combine beautifully and for the flavors to deepen. Keep an eye on it – if the soup seems to be getting too thick for your liking, you can always add a little extra water or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Taste & Serve: Before serving, give your soup a taste test. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Carefully remove the bay leaf before ladling this comforting soup hot into bowls. Enjoy every spoonful of this homemade goodness!

Presenting & Serving Your Delicious Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef

Your Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef is a star on its own, but a few simple additions can elevate it from delicious to absolutely unforgettable! Here are some creative and tasty ways to present and serve your hearty soup:

• Classic & Comforting: Serve it steaming hot in a rustic bowl. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill provides a lovely pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor. Pair it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a side of gluten-free crackers for dipping.
• Creamy Indulgence: Swirl a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of each serving for a creamy texture and a tangy counterpoint to the rich flavors. A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can add a welcome kick if you enjoy a little heat!
• Cheesy Goodness: For cheese lovers, a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar, Parmesan, or even a low-carb mozzarella on top while it’s hot will melt into gooey perfection.
• Fresh Herb Finish: Beyond parsley, consider fresh chives, cilantro, or basil. Chopped fresh herbs brighten the soup and add an aromatic layer that’s simply delightful.
• Soup & Salad Duo: Make it a complete meal by serving your Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef alongside a light, refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. The contrast in textures and temperatures is wonderfully satisfying.
• “Soup Bar” Fun: If entertaining, set up a small “soup bar” with bowls of various toppings like those mentioned above. Let your guests customize their own bowls for a fun and interactive dining experience!

Storing & Savoring: How Long Does Your Tomato Cabbage Soup Last?

One of the best things about this Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef is how wonderfully it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Sometimes, soups even taste better the next day as the flavors continue to meld!

• Refrigeration: Once your soup has cooled completely to room temperature (never put hot soup directly into the fridge), transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. This makes it an excellent option for healthy, ready-to-eat lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
• Freezing: This soup freezes exceptionally well! Again, allow it to cool completely. Divide it into individual portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Lay freezer bags flat to save space. Your Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef can be frozen for up to 3 months. Remember to label your containers with the date!
• Reheating:
  • From the fridge: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through.
  • From the freezer: For best results, thaw the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat as you would from the fridge. If you’re in a hurry, you can gently reheat it from frozen on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and breaking up chunks as it thaws, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

Enjoy the convenience of having a delicious, homemade meal ready whenever you are!

FAQs About Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef

1. Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! While lean ground beef gives this soup a classic, rich flavor, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a different twist.

2. What if I don’t like cabbage?

If you’re not a huge fan of cabbage, you can reduce the amount or swap it for other leafy greens like chopped kale or spinach, adding them in the last 5-10 minutes of cooking for best texture.

3. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Yes, this Tomato Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Beef is incredibly versatile! Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the onion and cabbage for extra nutrients and flavor.

4. Is this soup really keto-friendly?

Yes, with its low carb count from the lean beef and vegetables, this recipe is perfectly suited for a ketogenic diet. Just ensure your beef broth is low-sodium and doesn’t contain added sugars or starches.

5. Can I make this soup vegetarian/vegan?

To make it vegetarian, omit the beef and use a plant-based ground substitute. For vegan, ensure your beef broth is vegetable broth and check that all other ingredients are plant-derived.

6. How can I make this soup spicier?

For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the paprika, or stir in a dash of your favorite hot sauce when serving.

7. What kind of crushed tomatoes should I use?

Any good quality canned crushed tomatoes will work! For the best flavor, look for brands with minimal ingredients – just tomatoes, and maybe salt or basil.

8. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

You can! You’ll need about 1.5-2 cups of finely diced fresh tomatoes. They might break down a bit less than canned crushed tomatoes, so you could simmer them a little longer if you prefer a smoother texture.

9. Why is deglazing important?

Deglazing (scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan with liquid) is crucial because those browned bits are packed with intense flavor. It adds depth and richness to your soup that you wouldn’t get otherwise!

10. Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is fantastic for meal prep. You can make it entirely ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. The flavors often deepen overnight!