1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Season lightly with salt and pepper. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables
Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to slightly soften the vegetables.
4. Build the Soup Base
Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the cooked ground beef back into the pot.
Pour in the beef broth and stir in the Italian seasoning and smoked paprika.
5. Simmer
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and flavors have melded together.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve with crusty bread or a side of crackers for a complete, comforting meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love It
Nutritional Powerhouse: This soup is packed with vegetables and lean protein, making it a healthy and satisfying option.
Budget-Friendly: With simple, affordable ingredients, it’s perfect for feeding the whole family.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, so it’s ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
Tips for Success
Add Extra Flavor: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar adds depth.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is sure to become a staple in your comfort food lineup! 🥬🍲✨