Cabbage Soup with Hamburger is a hearty, comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. This delicious soup combines ground meat with fresh vegetables, making it a perfect option for a family dinner or meal prep throughout the week. Not only is this soup satisfying, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition, all while staying budget-friendly.
Why We Love This Cabbage Soup with Hamburger Recipe
This Cabbage Soup with Hamburger is beloved for several reasons. First, it combines ground meat and a colorful mix of veggies in a flavorful broth, creating layers of taste with every bite. The simplicity of the ingredients means it’s easy to whip up, whether you’re an experienced chef or a beginner in the kitchen. Plus, it’s an excellent one-pot meal that allows for easy cleanup. Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it on a chilly evening, share it at a gathering, or portion it out for your busy week ahead. With every bowl, you experience not just comfort but also a reflection of wholesome, nourishing cooking.
Ingredients about Cabbage Soup with Hamburger
Here’s what you will need to create this delicious Cabbage Soup with Hamburger:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2-3 pounds of hamburger (or ground turkey)
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 cups of celery, diced
- 2 cups of white or yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 5-6 cups of beef broth
- 2 (14 oz) cans of diced tomatoes with basil, oregano, and garlic
- 2 teaspoons of oregano
- 2 teaspoons of basil
- ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- Black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon of salt (optional)
How to Make Cabbage Soup with Hamburger Directions
Creating Cabbage Soup with Hamburger is straightforward and requires minimal prep. Start by cooking the hamburger in a skillet over medium heat. Use a spatula to break the meat apart into smaller pieces as it cooks. This step helps to ensure even browning and flavor infusion. Once it’s brown, drain any excess grease, which makes for a healthier soup.
Next, transfer the cooked hamburger to a crockpot. This is where all the flavors will come together beautifully. Add in the chopped cabbage, diced celery, diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. These fresh vegetables not only add texture but also bring plenty of nutrients to the soup.
Now comes the flavor-building portion of your recipe. Pour in the beef broth to create a tasty base for your soup. The broth will meld the various flavors throughout the cooking process. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. The tomatoes contribute to both the taste and color of the soup.
Season your mixture with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and, if desired, the salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. This step is crucial to ensure that every spoonful is packed full of flavor.
Now, set your slow cooker to high for 5-6 hours or low for 6-8 hours. If you can, stir the soup occasionally to help the ingredients blend together even more. As the time passes, your kitchen will fill with an inviting aroma that hints at the deliciousness to come. When the vegetables are tender and you can smell the fragrant herbs, your soup is ready to serve.
Serving this remarkable soup is easy! Just pour it into your favorite bowls and, if desired, top with fresh herbs or an extra sprinkle of black pepper. A side of crusty bread or a simple salad makes for a well-rounded meal, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
How to Serve Cabbage Soup with Hamburger
Serving Cabbage Soup with Hamburger can elevate your meal experience. Use bowls that showcase the vibrant colors of the soup. Consider garnishing with some freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Additionally, a sprinkle of black pepper can enhance the flavor. For a satisfying meal, serve your soup with crusty bread on the side, perfect for dipping, or pair it with a mixed green salad for additional crunch and flavor.
This soup is excellent as a standalone meal or as part of a larger spread during family dinners or gatherings. A warm serving of this soup can bring everyone together, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere as you share stories and laughter over delicious food.
Expert Tips: Cabbage Soup with Hamburger
To elevate your Cabbage Soup with Hamburger even further, here are some expert tips. First, ensure your ground meat is browned well, as this adds depth of flavor to your dish. If you prefer leaner meat, using ground turkey is an excellent substitute without sacrificing taste.
Secondly, feel free to add more vegetables! Carrots, zucchini, or even potatoes can infuse more color and nutrients into your soup. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if you add denser veggies like potatoes.
If you want to add a bit more spice, you can increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce once served. It’s a great way to customize the soup to your taste.
Don’t forget to taste your soup before serving. Adjust the seasonings to your preference to ensure it’s just right. Lastly, remember to stir the soup occasionally during cooking to help the flavors meld and the vegetables cook evenly.
How to Store Cabbage Soup with Hamburger
Storing your Cabbage Soup with Hamburger is easy! Once your soup has cooled down, transfer it to airtight containers. This prevents any air from spoiling the freshness. If you plan to enjoy some later, consider portioning it out for easy reheating.
Refrigerate the soup if you plan to consume it within the week. It can typically last 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the soup. Just ensure to leave some space in the containers, as liquids expand when frozen. Label your containers with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the thawed soup on the stove over medium heat or use your microwave. Stir it occasionally to ensure it warms evenly.
Variation of Cabbage Soup with Hamburger
There are several ways to vary your Cabbage Soup with Hamburger to keep things exciting. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the meat with lentils or plant-based crumbles. This switch not only makes the soup vegetarian but also adds a different protein profile.
Another fun variation is to include different spices or herbs. Try adding a bay leaf during cooking for an earthy flavor or add cumin for a subtly warm effect. Adjust the herbs based on your pantry and personal preferences—thyme and rosemary can bring unique twists!
For those who enjoy a creamier soup, consider blending a portion of the soup after cooking. This provides wonderful texture and can elevate the richness in flavor. You might also add some cream or a dairy-free alternative just before serving to add creaminess without overwhelming the broth’s flavorful notes.
Lastly, consider incorporating grains. Adding cooked rice, quinoa, or even pasta can turn this soup into a heartier meal. Be mindful of the cooking times and add them to the soup accordingly.
FAQ
What is Cabbage Soup with Hamburger?
Cabbage Soup with Hamburger is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines ground meat with fresh vegetables and broth, creating a comforting soup that’s perfect for family meals.
How long does it take to prepare Cabbage Soup with Hamburger?
Preparation time typically takes around 15-20 minutes, with cooking time requiring 5-6 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low in a slow cooker.
Can I customize the ingredients in Cabbage Soup with Hamburger?
Absolutely! You can add additional vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different meats or even vegetarian substitutes!
How should I store leftover Cabbage Soup with Hamburger?
You can store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze portions for longer storage.
Is Cabbage Soup with Hamburger healthy?
Yes! This soup is packed with vegetables and lean protein, making it a nutritious meal. You can control the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.
Can I make Cabbage Soup with Hamburger ahead of time?
Definitely! Making the soup a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully and can save time on busy days. Just reheat before serving.
Cabbage Soup with Hamburger
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2-3 pounds hamburger (or ground turkey) Can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- 1 head cabbage, chopped Use green cabbage for traditional flavor.
- 2 cups celery, diced
- 2 cups white or yellow onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5-6 cups beef broth
- 2 cans (14 oz) diced tomatoes with basil, oregano, and garlic Adds flavor and color.
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons oregano
- 2 teaspoons basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust for spice preference.
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional) Use according to taste preferences.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet, cook the hamburger over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Transfer the cooked hamburger to a crockpot.
Combine Ingredients
- Add chopped cabbage, diced celery, onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the crockpot.
- Pour in the beef broth, and add diced tomatoes with their juices.
- Season with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.
Cooking
- Set the slow cooker to high for 5-6 hours or low for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
- Once the vegetables are tender and the soup is aromatic, it is ready to serve.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or additional black pepper if desired.
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