There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening, and this Old Fashioned Hamburger Cabbage and Vegetable Soup is the quintessential comfort food that checks all the boxes. Imagine the inviting aroma of savory beef mingling with fragrant garlic and fresh vegetables as it simmers on the stove; it’s enough to bring back memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. Perfect for using up leftover vegetables from your fridge or simply enjoying a hearty meal without the fuss, this soup is a simple weeknight rescue that won’t disappoint picky eaters. With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, you’ll create a nourishing dish that warms the soul and fills the belly. It's just the kind of recipe that proves homemade can be both easy and delicious. Ready to dive into making this comforting classic? Here’s exactly how to make it.

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs ground beef
• ½ medium green cabbage, chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 7 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Note: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef if desired.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Nostalgic Flavor — This soup captures the essence of family dinners with its comforting blend of beef, veggies, and savory seasonings that evoke warm memories.
• Fiber and Nutrients — Packed with hearty vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, this dish gives you a wholesome boost of nutrients in every bowl.
• Simple Ingredients — Made with common staples you probably already have on hand, it’s a perfect way to clear out the fridge while whipping up a satisfying meal.
• Kid-Friendly Fun — The mild flavors and colorful veggies make it appealing for even the pickiest eaters, creating an opportunity for kids to enjoy their veggies.
• Make-Ahead Magic — This soup is ideal for meal prep; it reheats beautifully, ensuring a deliciously easy dinner throughout the week.

Recipe At a Glance

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 8 servings

Instructions

1. Brown the beef: Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 30 seconds.
3. Add the vegetables: Stir in the sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced potatoes, green beans, and chopped cabbage into the pot.
4. Add broth and tomatoes: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Add the Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, paprika, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes, until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.
6. Add frozen vegetables: Stir in the frozen corn and peas. Simmer uncovered for another 5–7 minutes until heated through.
7. Finish and serve: Remove the bay leaf from the pot, taste the soup and adjust seasonings if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving hot with warm bread or crackers.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date for your reference.

• Freezer: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: To reheat, you can use either the stovetop or microwave. For stovetop, add the soup to a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through (about 10–15 minutes). For the microwave, place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t skip the browning — Properly browning the ground beef enhances the flavor of the soup. Make sure to give it enough time to brown evenly before adding any vegetables to achieve a rich taste.

• Use leftover veggies — This soup is incredibly versatile; you can throw in any leftover vegetables you have on hand. Just ensure that firmer vegetables like carrots and potatoes are cut into smaller pieces so they cook evenly.

• Check potato texture — The soup is done when the potatoes are fork-tender. If you bite into them and they hold their shape while being soft inside, you know it's ready to add the frozen vegetables.

• Speed up prep with pre-chopped aromatics — Many grocery stores offer pre-chopped onions, garlic, and diced vegetables. Using these can save time if you're in a hurry, and they provide the same flavor base.

• Enhance flavor with homemade broth or bouillon — If you have the time, use homemade beef broth for a richer flavor. If using store-bought, consider adding a splash more Worcestershire sauce or a touch of soy sauce for depth.

What to Serve With This

• Garlic Bread — The crunchy, buttery flavors of garlic bread perfectly complement the rich, savory qualities of the soup.
• Crispy Kale Chips — These add a delightful crunch and a healthy element, balancing the hearty soup with a lighter texture.
• Sweet Iced Tea — A refreshing drink, its sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory depth of the soup while complementing its comforting nature.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies — These classic treats offer a warm, sweet finish that rounds out the meal after the hearty soup.

Substitutions & Variations

• Ground meat swap — Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a leaner version. This will produce a lighter soup while still maintaining a rich flavor.
• Vegetable variation — Substitute kale or spinach for the green cabbage for an alternative green leafy vegetable that provides a different texture and flavor profile.
• Broth alternative — Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to create a vegetarian-friendly version of the soup while still keeping the soup flavorful.
• Spice adjustment — Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or replace paprika with smoked paprika to introduce a smoky depth to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute other types of meat for the ground beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for ground beef; just be aware that the flavor will be lighter, and you may want to add additional seasonings for depth.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container, so make sure to cool it completely before transferring to keep it fresh.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely, this soup is great for making ahead. In fact, the flavors often deepen after sitting for a day, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

What if my vegetables aren't tender after the recommended simmer time?
If the vegetables, particularly the potatoes, aren't tender after 30–35 minutes of simmering, simply extend the cooking time, checking for tenderness every 5 minutes until they reach your desired softness.