Warm, hearty, and incredibly comforting, Easy Cabbage and Hamburger Soup is a classic one-pot meal made with simple ingredients and big flavor. Tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and vegetables simmer together in a rich, seasoned broth to create a satisfying soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights, cold days, or meal prep.
This budget-friendly soup is easy to customize, freezer-friendly, and filling without being heavy—making it a family favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love Easy Cabbage and Hamburger Soup
- One-pot recipe with minimal cleanup
- Made with simple, affordable ingredients
- Hearty, filling, and comforting
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
Ingredients You’ll Need
Easy Cabbage and Hamburger Soup – Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Protein base |
| Green cabbage (chopped) | ½–1 medium head | Main vegetable |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium | Flavor base |
| Carrots (sliced) | 2 medium | Natural sweetness |
| Celery (sliced) | 2 stalks | Aromatic |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Depth of flavor |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 1 (14.5 oz) can | Richness |
| Tomato sauce | 1 (8 oz) can | Body |
| Beef broth | 6–8 cups | Soup base |
| Olive oil (if needed) | 1 tbsp | Sautéing |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | Warm flavor |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Herbal notes |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
How to Make Easy Cabbage and Hamburger Soup
1. Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
👉 Tip: Browning the beef well adds depth to the soup.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the beef and vegetables.
4. Add Broth and Cabbage
Pour in beef broth and add chopped cabbage. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until cabbage is tender and flavors are well combined.
6. Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Tips for the Best Cabbage and Hamburger Soup
- Chop cabbage into bite-sized pieces for easier eating
- Simmer gently to avoid overcooking vegetables
- Add more broth if you prefer a thinner soup
- Let the soup rest 10 minutes before serving for deeper flavor
Variations & Substitutions
Flavor Variations
- Add a bay leaf while simmering
- Stir in a splash of Worcestershire sauce
- Add crushed red pepper for heat
Protein Options
- Ground turkey or chicken
- Ground sausage for extra flavor
Diet-Friendly Options
- Keto/low-carb: skip carrots
- Paleo: use clean broth and no additives
What to Serve With Easy Cabbage and Hamburger Soup
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Cornbread
- Side salad
- Grilled cheese sandwich
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make cabbage and hamburger soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
2. Can I use frozen cabbage?
Fresh cabbage is best, but frozen cabbage works in a pinch—expect softer texture.
3. Is this soup healthy?
Yes, it’s packed with vegetables and protein while being low in calories.
4. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown beef first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours.
5. Can I add potatoes or rice?
Absolutely—add diced potatoes or cooked rice for a heartier soup.
6. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.
7. How do I thicken the soup?
Simmer uncovered longer or mash some vegetables in the pot.
8. Can I make it spicy?
Add chili flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce to taste.
9. What’s the best ground beef to use?
80/20 works well for flavor; lean beef is also fine if drained.
10. Does cabbage get mushy in soup?
Not if you simmer gently—avoid overcooking.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a cozy, budget-friendly meal that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying, Easy Cabbage and Hamburger Soup is a perfect choice. Hearty, flavorful, and freezer-friendly, it’s a timeless soup you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.