This Cabbage Meatball Soup is hearty, light, and packed with flavor. Juicy meatballs simmer in a savory tomato-based broth with tender cabbage — a wholesome meal that’s budget-friendly, filling, and perfect for cozy nights.
⏱ Servings & Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
📋 Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 500 g (1 lb) ground meat (beef, pork, chicken, or a mix)
- 1 egg
- ½ small onion, finely chopped or grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional binders: 2 tbsp breadcrumbs or cooked rice
- Optional herbs: parsley, dill, or mint, finely chopped
For the Soup:
- 450 g cabbage, shredded (green or Napa cabbage)
- 450 g ripe tomatoes, diced (or 1.5 cups canned diced tomatoes/tomato sauce)
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken, beef, or vegetable stock (or water + bouillon)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon juice (optional, to brighten flavor)
👩🍳 Instructions
-
Prepare meatballs:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and any optional binders/herbs.
- Mix gently until just combined (don’t overwork).
- Form into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
-
Cook the base:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add tomatoes and cook 5 minutes until softened and saucy.
-
Add broth & cabbage:
- Stir in shredded cabbage, broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer.
-
Add meatballs:
- Gently drop meatballs into the simmering soup.
- Cover and cook 20–25 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through and cabbage is tender.
-
Finish:
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional).
💡 Tips & Variations
- Make it low-carb: use cauliflower rice instead of breadcrumbs in the meatballs.
- Add extra veggies: carrots, celery, or zucchini work beautifully.
- Spice it up: add paprika, chili flakes, or cumin for more depth.
- Freeze-friendly: freeze cooked soup (without herbs) in portions for up to 2 months.
⚖️ Nutrition (per serving, ~1.5 cups)
~220 calories | 20g protein | 8g carbs | 12g fat
✨ A light yet hearty soup that’s comfort in a bowl — healthy, filling, and perfect for meal prep!
