If you’re looking for a healthy, budget-friendly, and incredibly flavorful soup that nourishes the soul and satisfies the stomach, this Cabbage Soup is the recipe you’ve been waiting for. It’s been shared in kitchens across generations and hailed as a go-to for wellness, especially on rainy days or during a reset.

What makes this version special? It’s not only vegetable-packed but also includes ground beef for added protein and richness. The Lipton onion soup mix and stewed tomatoes give it an instant umami boost, while the fresh cabbage and celery add texture and fiber.

It’s one of those throw-it-all-in and simmer meals that make life easier—and tastier.

🧡 Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup

✅ Nutrient-Dense: Cabbage, tomatoes, onions, and celery offer fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins.
✅ Great for Weight Management: Low in calories but keeps you full.
✅ Versatile: Customize with your favorite seasonings or extra veggies.
✅ Meal Prep Magic: Makes a large batch and stores beautifully.
✅ One-Pot Simplicity: Easy cleanup, no fancy equipment needed.

🛒 Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this satisfying soup to life:

1 large head of cabbage – Chopped or shredded.
2 small onions, diced – Yellow or white works best.
2 cans stewed tomatoes – Adds sweetness and depth.
1 bag Lipton onion soup mix – Any flavor; it’s the seasoning powerhouse.
1 large bunch of celery, finely chopped – Adds crunch and flavor.
1 to 2 lbs ground beef – Cooked and drained for added richness.
Water – To fill your pot and bring it all together.

Optional add-ins: diced carrots, garlic, crushed red pepper, green beans, parsley, or spinach.

👨‍🍳 Instructions: Step-by-Step

1️⃣ Boil the Water and Simmer the Veggies

Start by filling a large soup pot or Dutch oven halfway with water (about 10–12 cups). Bring to a boil.

Once boiling, add the cabbage, onions, celery, and stewed tomatoes. Reduce the heat to a simmer.

Let the veggies cook gently for about 20–25 minutes, or until the cabbage softens and the flavors begin to blend.

2️⃣ Cook the Ground Beef Separately

While your veggies are simmering, cook 1 to 2 pounds of ground beef in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up into crumbles as it browns.

Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

Tip: Want to make it even leaner? Use ground turkey or chicken instead.

3️⃣ Add Soup Mix and Seasonings

To the simmering pot, add the entire packet of Lipton onion soup mix. Stir well to distribute the seasonings.

At this stage, feel free to add any spices you love: garlic powder, black pepper, thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, or a bay leaf.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4️⃣ Combine Meat and Simmer

Now add the cooked ground beef to the pot. Stir to combine everything well.

Let the soup simmer for another 10–15 minutes, uncovered, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup hot in big bowls with:

A slice of crusty sourdough or cornbread
A sprinkle of Parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley or green onions on top for brightness
A dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast

It’s perfect on its own or served alongside a light salad for a wholesome, complete meal.

🧠 Health Benefits of Cabbage Soup

Ingredient	Health Benefit
Cabbage	High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Promotes gut health.
Tomatoes	Rich in lycopene and vitamin A. Supports heart health.
Celery	Contains anti-inflammatory properties and aids digestion.
Onions	High in flavonoids, may help regulate blood sugar.
Ground Beef (Lean)	Provides protein and iron, keeps you full longer.

This soup is not only nourishing but also immune-supportive, especially during cold and flu season.

🔁 Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing

Make-Ahead: The flavor gets even better the next day.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave or simmer gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

🔄 Variations to Try

Want to mix it up? Here are some ideas:

Add white beans or kidney beans for extra fiber.
Swap beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage.
Add a few dashes of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning for a kick.
Use vegetable broth instead of water for extra depth.
Add cooked rice, barley, or pasta to make it heartier.

🤔 Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just add all ingredients (including cooked ground beef) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Is this soup low-carb?
Yes! As long as you skip adding pasta or beans, it’s naturally low in carbs.

What makes this so flavorful without stock?
The Lipton soup mix and stewed tomatoes bring a ton of flavor to the broth. You won’t miss the stock!