Hamburger Cabbage Soup Crock Pot Recipe

Soup is one of those comfort foods that never goes out of style. Whether you’re looking for something hearty and filling or something light and nourishing, there’s a soup recipe for every occasion. Enter Hamburger Cabbage Soup-a simple, nutritious, and oh-so-satisfying dish that combines the savory richness of ground beef with the fresh crunch of cabbage and a savory broth. When made in a Crock Pot (slow cooker), it becomes even more magical. The slow simmering melds all the flavors together, creating a rich, aromatic meal with minimal effort. It’s the kind of meal that will make your kitchen smell like a cozy home, filling the air with tantalizing scents while you go about your day.

Not only is this Hamburger Cabbage Soup an easy recipe to throw together, but it’s also super customizable, nutritious, and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into this one-pot wonder!

Hamburger Cabbage Soup Crock Pot Recipe

This Crock Pot Hamburger Cabbage Soup is one of the easiest and most flavorful meals you can make. It requires very little prep work, and the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. The meat and cabbage cook down together into a hearty, satisfying soup that will fill you up without weighing you down. It’s also a great way to get your daily serving of veggies in a delicious way!

Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb ground beef – Lean beef works best, but you can use turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• 1 small onion, chopped – This adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup.
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped – The star of the dish! Cabbage adds texture, flavor, and loads of nutrients.
• 2 cups beef broth – This provides a savory base for the soup. You can use chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer.
• 2 cups water – To thin the broth and create the perfect soup consistency.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings that rich, savory punch that elevates the entire soup.
• 2 large tomatoes, diced – These add a burst of sweetness and acidity that balances out the richness of the beef.
• 1 teaspoon salt – For seasoning, adjust to taste depending on your preference.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper – Adds a touch of heat and depth to the flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A classic herb that pairs perfectly with beef and cabbage.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Another herb that complements the soup’s savory flavors.
• 1 bay leaf – This adds a slightly earthy, aromatic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – A dash of paprika brings a mild smokiness and color to the soup.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – This little addition helps enhance the umami of the soup.

Cooking Instructions

Making this Hamburger Cabbage Soup in the Crock Pot is simple and almost hands-off. Follow these steps for a deliciously easy meal:

1. Brown The Ground Beef

   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat.

2. Prepare The Vegetables

   • While the beef is cooking, chop the cabbage into small, bite-sized pieces. Dice the tomatoes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.

3. Combine Ingredients In The Crock Pot

   • Add the browned beef to the Crock Pot, followed by the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, onion, and garlic.

4. Add The Liquids And Spices

   • Pour in the beef broth and water. Then, add the salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together to combine.

5. Set The Crock Pot

   • Set the Crock Pot on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready when the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well melded together.

6. Serve

   • Once the soup is done, discard the bay leaf and give it a final stir. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a side of crusty bread if you like.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup has its own unique role, contributing to the overall flavor, texture, and nutrition of the dish:

• Ground Beef: The beef is the heart of the soup, providing protein, fat, and rich flavor. It also imparts a savory depth to the broth. You can choose lean beef for a healthier option, or even substitute with turkey or chicken if you want to reduce the fat content.
• Cabbage: Packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, cabbage is not only nutritious but also absorbs all the flavors of the soup. As it cooks, it softens into tender, flavorful bites that are satisfying yet light.
• Beef Broth: This is the backbone of the soup’s flavor. It adds richness and depth, while the water helps balance out the intensity and makes the soup just the right consistency.
• Tomatoes: The natural acidity of tomatoes helps balance the savory flavors of the beef, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
• Herbs & Spices: Oregano, thyme, and bay leaves bring earthy, aromatic tones, while paprika adds a subtle smokiness. Garlic and Worcestershire sauce provide depth and umami, rounding out the flavors.

Expert Tips

• Season as you go: Don’t hesitate to taste your soup and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process. Depending on the type of broth you use, you may need more or less salt.
• Brown the meat first: Browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker brings out more flavor in the meat. It also helps develop that rich, savory base for the soup.
• Don’t skip the bay leaf: It might seem like a small addition, but the bay leaf imparts an aromatic, herbal note that makes the soup taste like it’s been simmering all day long.
• Storage tips: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing and store in an airtight container.

Recipe Variations

One of the great things about Hamburger Cabbage Soup is how versatile it is. You can tweak it to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:

• Add more vegetables: You can throw in some carrots, celery, or zucchini for added texture and nutrients. Potatoes are also a great option, just chop them small so they cook quickly.
• Spicy version: For a little heat, try adding a diced jalapeño, red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Go low-carb: If you’re looking for a low-carb option, swap out the potatoes (if you added them) with cauliflower for a similar texture without the carbs.
• Make it a stew: If you prefer a thicker, heartier soup, reduce the amount of liquid or let it cook longer on low. The cabbage and beef will absorb more of the broth, making the dish thicker.

Final Words

This Hamburger Cabbage Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a simple, satisfying dinner, this recipe has you covered. With the Crock Pot doing the heavy lifting, you’ll have time to relax while your kitchen fills with delicious aromas. Plus, it’s a great way to get your veggies in while enjoying the hearty, rich taste of ground beef.