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Keto Cabbage Soup

Updated on 4 min read

A Nourishing, Low-Carb Comfort Soup with Ground Beef, Cabbage & Tomatoes

Introduction

Keto Cabbage Soup is one of those underrated comfort dishes that surprises you with its simplicity, depth, and nourishment. Once known as a bland “diet food,” this version turns it into a weeknight favorite—hearty, flavorful, and satisfying with every spoonful.

With well-seasoned ground beef, shredded cabbage, and aromatic spices, this soup proves that healthy meals can still be bold and craveable. Plus, it’s low in carbs, loaded with fiber, and perfect for keto, low-calorie, or gluten-free diets.

🍽️ Recipe Overview

  • Yield: 5–6 servings
  • Skill Level: Easy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes (Stovetop)
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Cuisine: Keto Comfort Food
  • Course: Dinner, Soup
  • Calories: 145 kcal per serving

🛒 Ingredients and Their Purpose

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
    Used for sautéing aromatics and adding healthy fat for keto balance.
  • 1 large onion, chopped
    Builds a sweet and savory aromatic base.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    Boosts flavor and adds depth.
  • 1 lb ground beef
    Adds rich protein and texture. Choose 80–85% lean for balance.
  • 6 cups shredded cabbage
    The star ingredient—low in calories and carbs, high in fiber.
  • 15 oz canned tomatoes (diced or crushed)
    Brings acidity, sweetness, and richness to the broth.

Liquids & Seasonings

  • 5 cups bone broth (preferably beef)
    Provides protein, collagen, and a rich, savory base.
  • 1 tsp salt + more to taste
    Enhances all ingredients.
  • ½ tsp black pepper
    Adds sharpness and depth—freshly ground is best.
  • ½ tsp oregano
    Adds earthiness and Mediterranean flair.
  • ½ tsp thyme
    Lends woodsy, herbaceous flavor.
  • ½ tsp paprika
    Adds subtle warmth and color.
  • 1 bay leaf
    Infuses a slow, complex herbal aroma during simmering.

🔪 Equipment Needed

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Ladle
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Stovetop Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened.
  • Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, and ground beef.
  • Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart while it cooks for 7–8 minutes, until no longer pink.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

  • Pour in bone broth, add shredded cabbage, canned tomatoes, bay leaf, and remaining spices (oregano, thyme, paprika).
  • Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Simmer

  • Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
  • Reduce to a simmer, cover, and let cook for 25 minutes, or until cabbage is tender.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

  • Remove and discard the bay leaf.
  • Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  • Serve hot with optional garnish (fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon).

Instant Pot Instructions (Alternative Method)

Step 1: Sauté Mode

  • Press Sauté on Instant Pot. Once hot, add olive oil and ground beef. Cook until browned (5 minutes).
  • Add garlic and onion. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 2: Pressure Cook

  • Add broth, seasonings, tomatoes, bay leaf, and cabbage on top.
  • Close lid, set valve to Sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Quick Release

  • Set valve to Venting for quick release. Open lid once pressure drops.
  • Remove bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning.

🌶️ Flavor Profile

  • Savory & Bold: Thanks to well-seasoned beef and bone broth
  • Herby & Comforting: From thyme, oregano, bay leaf
  • Slightly Tangy: Tomatoes balance the richness of the beef
  • Warming & Satisfying: Paprika and garlic bring subtle heat

🔄 Variations & Tips

  • Make it spicier: Add chili flakes or cayenne
  • Low-sodium version: Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt to taste
  • Make it chunkier: Add chopped carrots or zucchini if not strictly keto
  • Add cheese: Stir in shredded Parmesan or cheddar before serving

🧊 Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in portions
  • Reheat: Gently on stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally

❓ FAQ

Is this soup good for weight loss?
Yes, it’s low in calories and carbs but high in fiber and protein—ideal for keto and calorie-conscious diets.

Can I substitute ground beef?
Yes—try ground turkey, pork, or even sausage for different flavor profiles.

Do I need to use bone broth?
Bone broth adds extra nutrients, but you can substitute with chicken or beef stock.

🧾 Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 145 kcal
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 26mg
  • Carbs: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Net Carbs: 4g
  • Protein: 11g
  • Sodium: 309mg
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Vitamin A: 160%
  • Vitamin C: 17%
  • Calcium: 36%
  • Iron: 1.4%

🍴 Final Thoughts

Keto Cabbage Soup is the perfect example of how a once-ordinary dish becomes extraordinary with the right seasoning and ingredients. It’s warming, budget-friendly, and meal-prep approved. Whether you’re eating keto or just want a nourishing bowl of soup, this one’s a keeper.

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