Hamburger Vegetable Soup With Cabbage Recipe

Soup is one of those timeless dishes that brings comfort, warmth, and a sense of home, no matter the season. Whether it’s chilly outside or you’re simply craving something hearty and nourishing, a good bowl of soup can be the answer. Today, let’s dive into a crowd-pleasing, hearty dish that combines savory flavors and satisfying textures: Hamburger Vegetable Soup with Cabbage.

This recipe is a true winner for anyone who loves the rich flavor of beef combined with the freshness of vegetables and the unique crunch of cabbage. It’s an all-in-one meal that not only fills you up but also provides a variety of nutrients. Best of all, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Hamburger Vegetable Soup With Cabbage Recipe

The concept behind this soup is simple: ground beef (hamburger) forms the base, then you add in a medley of vegetables, including cabbage, to create a nutritious, filling meal. It’s like a complete meal in a bowl, offering comfort while packing a punch of flavor.

What makes this recipe stand out is the cabbage. It doesn’t just add crunch, but also a subtle sweetness and earthiness that complements the beef perfectly. Plus, cabbage is packed with fiber and vitamins, making this a healthy option for families or anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome meal.

Ingredients Needed

For this soup, you’ll need the following ingredients, which come together to create a deeply satisfying meal:

• 1 lb ground beef – Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier version. This forms the heart of your soup and provides the rich meaty flavor.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – Adds depth of flavor and a mild sweetness when sautéed.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic brings out an aromatic punch that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 large carrot, diced – Sweet and tender, carrots bring both flavor and color to the dish.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped – Adds a light, fresh crunch.
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped – The star vegetable. Cabbage gives the soup its unique texture and nutritional value.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Tomatoes provide acidity and brightness, balancing the richness of the beef.
• 4 cups beef broth – The base of the soup. You can use low-sodium or homemade broth for a healthier, more personalized touch.
• 1 cup frozen peas – A little burst of sweetness and color that rounds out the vegetable profile.
• 1 tsp dried thyme – Adds earthy, herbaceous flavor.
• 1 tsp dried basil – For a hint of sweetness and a subtle aromatic flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1 bay leaf – An optional addition, but one that contributes a depth of flavor to the broth.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and ground beef.

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get into the process! This soup comes together in just a few easy steps:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and cabbage. Open the can of diced tomatoes and have your frozen peas ready to go.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, browning it evenly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat (if you’re using regular ground beef).
3. Sauté the Vegetables: To the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent. This is where the flavors start to meld together.
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and beef broth. Stir to combine, making sure everything is mixed well.
5. Season the Soup: Add in the thyme, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
6. Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This gives the flavors time to develop and blend together.
7. Add the Cabbage and Peas: Stir in the chopped cabbage and frozen peas. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the peas are heated through.
8. Taste and Adjust: Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your personal preference.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s dive deeper into some of the key ingredients in this soup:

• Ground Beef: The beef is a rich source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12. Opt for leaner cuts to keep the fat content in check. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted if you’re looking for a lighter version.
• Cabbage: Cabbage is an underappreciated vegetable with a ton of health benefits. It’s rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. When cooked, cabbage takes on a lovely sweetness and becomes soft and tender, which adds a unique texture to the soup.
• Carrots and Celery: Both vegetables are high in fiber and offer a natural sweetness. Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A), and celery provides potassium and vitamins A and K.
• Tomatoes: Tomatoes contribute more than just color-they bring acidity that helps balance the rich beef, and they’re full of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene (a powerful antioxidant).

Expert Tips

• Browning the Beef: For maximum flavor, be sure to brown the beef well. Don’t rush this step, as caramelizing the meat adds complexity and depth to the soup.
• Broth Choices: For an even more flavorful soup, consider using homemade beef broth. If using store-bought, opt for a low-sodium version to control the salt levels.
• Adjust Texture: If you like a thicker soup, feel free to add some diced potatoes or parsnips. These root vegetables will soften as they cook, naturally thickening the broth.
• Let It Rest: Like many soups, this one actually tastes better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld. If you’re not in a rush, let it cool and refrigerate for a few hours before reheating.

Recipe Variations

This soup is highly adaptable, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients:

• Add Beans: For extra protein and fiber, toss in a can of kidney beans, black beans, or white beans.
• Swap Vegetables: You can substitute the cabbage with kale, spinach, or even broccoli, depending on what you have on hand.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a little heat.
• Low-Carb Option: If you’re following a low-carb diet, skip the peas and opt for cauliflower instead of cabbage. Cauliflower adds texture and can stand in for the cabbage quite well.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to serve it with gluten-free bread or crackers if you’re adding a side.

Final Words

Hamburger vegetable soup with cabbage is a versatile, nourishing, and budget-friendly meal that delivers on both flavor and nutrition. The combination of savory beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth is sure to keep your family coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s an ideal dish to prepare in advance, making it a great option for meal prep or easy weeknight dinners.