Light • Hearty • High-Protein
This Light Cabbage & Ground Beef Soup is a comforting one-pot meal made with tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and a flavorful vegetable broth. It’s filling, nutritious, and perfect for a healthy lunch, cozy dinner, or easy meal prep.
Simple ingredients. Big flavor. Warm homemade comfort.
Recipe Overview
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: ~280 kcal per serving
Diet Style
• High-protein
• Low-carb friendly
• Gluten-free
• One-pot meal
• Meal-prep friendly
Equipment
Large soup pot
Knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Ladle
Ingredients
1½ lbs (700g) lean ground beef
1 large head green cabbage, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil
6 cups beef broth
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp thyme
1 bay leaf
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot.
Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Break the meat apart while cooking.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2 — Cook Aromatics
Add:
- Onion
- Garlic
Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3 — Add Vegetables
Add chopped cabbage and carrots.
Stir and cook for a few minutes until slightly softened.
Step 4 — Add Soup Base
Pour in:
- Beef broth
- Diced tomatoes
- Tomato paste
Add:
- Paprika
- Oregano
- Salt
- Pepper
- Thyme
- Bay leaf
Mix well.
Step 5 — Simmer
Bring soup to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 35–40 minutes until cabbage is tender and flavors combine.
Step 6 — Finish and Serve
Remove bay leaf.
Add fresh parsley.
Serve warm in bowls.
Nutrition (Approx.)
Calories: 280
Protein: 28g
Total Carbs: 14g
Net Carbs: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Fat: 14g
Nutrition may vary depending on beef fat percentage and ingredients used.
Ingredient Benefits
Cabbage 🥬
High in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants while being naturally low in calories.
Ground Beef 🥩
Provides protein, iron, and essential nutrients for a satisfying meal.
Tomatoes 🍅
Add antioxidants and rich flavor to the broth.
Garlic 🧄
Adds flavor and beneficial plant compounds.
Carrots 🥕
Provide natural sweetness, fiber, and nutrients.
Serving Ideas
Complete Meal
Serve with:
- Whole-grain bread
- Side salad
- Avocado slices
Low-Carb Option
Pair with:
- Cauliflower rice
- Roasted vegetables
Meal Prep
Divide into containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
Storage
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Tips
Use lean ground beef to keep it lighter.
Add extra cabbage for a more filling soup.
For deeper flavor, let the soup simmer longer.
Add chili flakes for a spicy version.
The flavor improves even more the next day.
Final Thoughts
This Light Cabbage & Ground Beef Soup is a simple, nourishing recipe that proves healthy meals can still be comforting and satisfying. With protein-rich beef, fiber-packed cabbage, and a flavorful broth, it’s perfect for busy days and cozy evenings.
A warm, budget-friendly, and wholesome soup the whole family will enjoy.
