Hearty Beef and Cabbage Soup Recipe

Introduction

This hearty Beef Cabbage Soup is a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for any day of the year. Packed with ground beef, fresh cabbage, and rich broth, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop, in a Crock Pot, or with an Instant Pot. Flavorful and warming, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb shredded coleslaw mix or chopped cabbage
• 1 15-oz can diced tomatoes with liquid
• 6 cups beef bone broth or any broth (beef, chicken, or vegetable)
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or more if you love garlic)
• 2 medium bay leaves (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the avocado oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions start to brown.
2. Step 2: Add the ground beef to the pot. Season with sea salt and black pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking apart the beef with a spatula, until it is fully cooked.
3. Step 3: Stir in the shredded coleslaw mix or cabbage, diced tomatoes with liquid, beef bone broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and bay leaves. Add more salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Bring the soup to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 30-60 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Step 5: Remove bay leaves before serving. Enjoy hot.

Alternative cooking methods:

1. Crock Pot: After cooking the onions and beef in a skillet as above, transfer the mixture to a Crock Pot. Add the remaining ingredients. Cook on Low for 5-6 hours or High for 2-3 hours. Remove bay leaves before serving.
2. Instant Pot: Use the Saute function to cook onions and beef as described. Turn off the heat, add the remaining ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on Manual for 20 minutes. Allow natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release pressure. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, substitute beef bone broth with homemade broth or a rich store-bought variety.
• Try adding diced carrots or celery for additional texture.
• Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder if preferred; sauté it with the onions.
• To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• For a lower-fat version, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cabbage instead of coleslaw mix?

Yes, fresh chopped cabbage works perfectly and provides a similar texture and flavor to shredded coleslaw mix.

Is it necessary to use bay leaves?

Bay leaves add subtle depth to the soup’s flavor, but they are optional. You can leave them out if you prefer or don’t have any on hand.