If you’re craving a warm, nourishing bowl that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle, look no further than this Keto Cabbage Soup Recipe — A Comforting Low-Carb Meal Recipe. It brings together hearty ground beef, tender green cabbage, and a medley of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection. Each spoonful delivers a symphony of flavors enhanced by Italian seasoning and a touch of smoky paprika, making it just what you need to satisfy both your hunger and your soul on any cozy day. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to pull together—even busy weeknights won’t slow you down when you know this recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is all it takes to create a vibrant and flavorful soup. Each element plays a vital role in building the texture, depth, and color that make this soup so irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and adding a smooth, fruity richness to the base.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein foundation that makes the soup truly satisfying.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and savory depth when softened.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with aromatic intensity that wakes up your taste buds.
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped: The star low-carb vegetable that provides crunch and a slightly sweet earthiness.
- 1 medium carrot, sliced: Brings a gentle touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Offers refreshing crunch and enhances the soup’s aromatic profile.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and juicy texture, balancing richness beautifully.
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium): The warm liquid base that melds all flavors together without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that elevates the savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky depth and gentle warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances and balances all the ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick to brighten the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Added at the end to bring brightness and subtle tang.
How to Make Keto Cabbage Soup Recipe — A Comforting Low-Carb Meal Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up into small pieces with your spoon. Browning the beef properly is essential because it develops a savory foundation that layers richness into the entire soup. If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep the soup lean and balanced.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2 to 3 minutes, until your kitchen is filled with that inviting aroma and the onion has softened. This step unlocks the sweet and aromatic flavors that will complement the heartier ingredients.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Now, stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrot, and celery. Keep cooking for roughly 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the vegetables to soften slightly while still maintaining some crunch and texture, giving your soup a satisfying bite.
Step 4: Pour in Tomatoes and Beef Broth
Pour the diced tomatoes along with their juice into the pot, followed by the beef broth. This liquid base is where all the flavors begin to marry. The tomatoes add a fresh acidity, brightening the soup beautifully while keeping it low-carb.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Add the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. This slow simmer allows the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to blend deeply, making each spoonful full of comforting warmth.
Step 6: Stir in Apple Cider Vinegar
Just before serving, stir in the apple cider vinegar. This little addition wakes up the flavors with a bright, subtle tang that balances the richness of the beef and broth perfectly. Give it a final taste and adjust salt or pepper to your liking.
How to Serve Keto Cabbage Soup Recipe — A Comforting Low-Carb Meal Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can turn this simple soup into something extra special. Try topping your bowl with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream for creamy richness. Fresh chopped parsley or chives can also brighten the presentation and add a touch of herbal freshness.
Side Dishes
Pairing this soup with a fresh green salad or some crunchy low-carb crackers makes for a perfectly rounded meal. If you want to boost the protein, a simple side of grilled chicken or a cheese plate goes beautifully with the robust flavors of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in individual bread bowls made from keto-friendly almond flour bread or use a vibrant bowl to highlight the colorful ingredients. You can also layer the soup with a cheese crust under the broiler for a soup au gratin style that’s both indulgent and low-carb.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious. Just give it a quick stir before reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze any leftover soup in portion-sized containers for up to three months. Be sure to leave some space at the top as the soup will expand. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Stir occasionally as it warms to keep the vegetables from sticking and ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken make excellent substitutes. They will give the soup a lighter flavor but still keep it hearty and filling.
Is this soup suitable for other low-carb diets besides keto?
Definitely. This soup is naturally low in carbs and fits well into various low-carb eating plans like Atkins or Paleo, with minimal modifications.
Can I make this soup spicier?
Yes, just add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce when seasoning to kick up the heat to your preference.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
You can substitute lemon juice for a similar tangy brightness, or skip it, though the vinegar adds a nice layer of complexity you won’t want to miss.
Is it okay to use pre-shredded cabbage or frozen vegetables?
The fresh cabbage provides the best texture, but pre-shredded or frozen veggies can work in a pinch. Just adjust cooking time as frozen vegetables tend to release more water.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a simple bowl of soup that warms you from the inside out, and this Keto Cabbage Soup Recipe — A Comforting Low-Carb Meal Recipe hits that mark beautifully. It’s a perfect blend of cozy comfort and smart nutrition, made with fresh ingredients and a loving touch. I hope you give it a try soon—it might just become your new go-to soup on chilly nights or whenever you want a wholesome, satisfying meal without fuss. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Keto Cabbage Soup Recipe — A Comforting Low-Carb Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Keto Cabbage Soup Recipe is a comforting, low-carb meal that combines ground beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful seasonings. It’s perfect for a healthy dinner option that’s both hearty and satisfying while fitting perfectly into a ketogenic diet.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth, low sodium
Seasonings and Others
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Cook vegetables: Stir in chopped cabbage, sliced carrot, and sliced celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to soften the vegetables.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the beef broth. Add Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
- Finish and serve: Stir in apple cider vinegar just before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot for a comforting ketogenic meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a leaner option.
- For extra richness, top the soup with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
- To add spice, include red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce according to your heat preference.
