Cabbage soup is the perfect dish for those rainy days when all you want is something hearty, healthy, and comforting. This easy recipe blends fresh vegetables with ground beef, creating a savory broth that’s sure to satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a filling dinner, this cabbage soup will hit the spot.
Ingredients
1 large cabbage, chopped
2 small onions, diced
2 cans of stewed tomatoes
1 pouch Lipton Onion Soup Mix (any flavor)
1 large celery, chopped very small
1-2 pounds ground beef
Spices of your choice (optional)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
I start by filling a large saucepan halfway with water and bringing it to a boil.
Once the water is boiling, I add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, stewed tomatoes, celery, and the Lipton onion soup mix. I let everything come to a simmer.
While the soup is simmering, I cook the ground beef in a separate pan, breaking it up and letting it brown. I drain any excess fat before adding it to the soup.
After the meat is added, I throw in any spices I want to use. This could be garlic powder, pepper, or anything else that might enhance the flavor. I give everything a good stir.
I let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to ensure all the flavors meld together. Then, I taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Finally, I serve the soup hot and enjoy the warmth it brings on a chilly day!
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Variations
There are plenty of ways I can make this soup my own:
Vegetarian version: I can skip the ground beef and add beans or tofu for a plant-based alternative.
Spicy kick: Adding some red pepper flakes or jalapeños can give the soup a spicy kick.
Extra vegetables: I could throw in carrots, bell peppers, or green beans for more color and texture.
Slow cooker: If I want to set it and forget it, I can make this soup in a slow cooker. Just add all the ingredients and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Storage/Reheating
I love making a big batch of cabbage soup because it stores really well for leftovers:
In the fridge: I store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
In the freezer: This soup freezes wonderfully, and I can keep it for up to 3 months. To reheat, I just thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stovetop or microwave.
Reheating: When I reheat the soup, I add a little extra water or broth if it has thickened too much. It usually tastes even better the next day!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! I sometimes substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, and it works just as well in the soup.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, I often make this soup ahead of time! The flavors only get better as it sits, making it a great make-ahead meal.
How can I make this soup spicier?
I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to kick the heat up. You can also use a spicy variety of Lipton Onion Soup Mix.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! I sometimes throw in carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini. This recipe is very adaptable, so feel free to get creative.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Fresh tomatoes work too! I’d suggest using about 4-5 medium tomatoes, chopped, and adding a little extra broth to make up for the liquid in the canned tomatoes.
Conclusion
This cabbage soup has become a favorite in my household because of how easy and comforting it is. The combination of vegetables, ground beef, and flavorful seasonings makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days or when I’m craving something wholesome. Whether I enjoy it as is or switch it up with some variations, this soup is always a hit.
Recipe:

Cabbage Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This comforting Cabbage Soup recipe is a perfect combination of fresh vegetables and savory ground beef, simmered in a flavorful broth. With ingredients like cabbage, onions, stewed tomatoes, and Lipton Onion Soup Mix, it’s a heartwarming, easy-to-make dish that is ideal for chilly days. Customize it with spices, extra veggies, or even swap the beef for turkey to suit your taste.
Ingredients
1 large cabbage, chopped
2 small onions, diced
2 cans of stewed tomatoes
1 pouch Lipton Onion Soup Mix (any flavor)
1 large celery, chopped very small
1-2 pounds ground beef
Spices of your choice (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a large saucepan halfway with water and bring it to a boil.
- Add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, stewed tomatoes, celery, and the Lipton Onion Soup Mix. Let it come to a simmer.
- In a separate pan, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the cooked ground beef to the simmering soup, along with any spices you prefer (garlic powder, pepper, etc.).
- Stir everything well and let it simmer for a few more minutes for the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the soup hot.
Notes
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with beans or tofu for a plant-based alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for some heat.
Slow Cooker: Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 300 kcal