Slow Cooker Zesty Cabbage Beef Soup: A Flavorful and Comforting Meal

A Hearty, Nutritious Soup for Every Occasion

Nothing beats a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Zesty Cabbage Beef Soup on a chilly day. The combination of tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and zesty tomatoes creates a rich and satisfying dish that’s both wholesome and delicious. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you crave a comforting homemade soup.

Not only is this soup easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Cabbage provides fiber and antioxidants, while ground beef adds protein, making this a balanced and filling meal. The slow cooker allows the flavors to develop beautifully, giving the soup a deep, zesty, and slightly spicy taste that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Effortless slow cooker meal – Just toss in the ingredients and let it cook!
✔ Loaded with flavor – A perfect blend of savory, zesty, and mildly spicy notes.
✔ Healthy and hearty – Packed with lean protein, fiber, and vitamins.
✔ Budget-friendly – Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients.
✔ Great for meal prep – Leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Slow Cooker Zesty Cabbage Beef Soup is made with simple pantry staples and fresh vegetables that create a robust and deeply satisfying flavor.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground Beef	1 pound
Cabbage (Diced, 1-inch pieces)	6 cups
Onion (Diced)	1 medium
Crushed Tomatoes	1 can (15 oz)
Tomatoes with Green Chiles (Rotel)	1 can (10 oz)
Water	1⅓ cups
Beef Bouillon Cubes (Crumbled)	2
Salt	½ teaspoon
Black Pepper	½ teaspoon
Garlic Powder	½ teaspoon
Dried Oregano	½ teaspoon
Cayenne Pepper	¼ teaspoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

• In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink.
• Drain any excess fat and transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

• Dice the onion and chop the cabbage into 1-inch pieces.
• Add both to the slow cooker with the ground beef.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Liquid

• Pour in the crushed tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes with green chiles, and water.
• Stir to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Season the Soup

• Sprinkle in the crumbled beef bouillon cubes, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper.
• Mix well to incorporate the spices.

5. Cook the Soup

• Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
• The soup is ready when the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well combined.

6. Adjust and Serve

• Give the soup a good stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
• Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
• Enjoy with crusty bread, crackers, or a side of rice

for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Best Zesty Cabbage Beef Soup

✔ Use lean ground beef – Less fat makes for a healthier soup.
✔ Want more spice? – Increase the cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes.
✔ Prefer a thicker soup? – Reduce the water slightly or let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
✔ Make it low-carb – Skip the bread and serve with a side of avocado or a keto-friendly roll.
✔ Try different proteins – Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for variety.

Health Benefits of Cabbage and Beef Soup

This Slow Cooker Zesty Cabbage Beef Soup isn’t just tasty—it’s nutritious and packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

1. High in Fiber

Cabbage is rich in fiber, which promotes digestive health and keeps you full longer.

2. Loaded with Protein

Ground beef provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.

3. Supports Heart Health

Tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health and reduces inflammation.

4. Boosts Immunity

Cabbage and onions are packed with vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system.

5. Low in Calories but Filling

This soup is low in calories while being satisfying and nutrient-dense, making it great for weight management.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with This Soup

This Slow Cooker Zesty Cabbage Beef Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Cornbread – A sweet and savory addition.
• Side Salad – A light, fresh contrast to the hearty soup.
• Steamed Rice or Quinoa – For extra heartiness.
• Roasted Vegetables – A simple, healthy side dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Reheat

• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Slow Cooker: Reheat on low for 1-2 hours if reheating a large batch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function to brown the beef, then add the remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a quick release.

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Use 2-3 diced fresh tomatoes and 1 small can of tomato paste for a similar consistency.

3. How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Omit the ground beef and substitute with lentils, chickpeas, or plant-based crumbles. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

4. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms all work well in this soup.

5. What type of cabbage is best?

Green cabbage is most common, but you can use savoy cabbage, Napa cabbage, or even red cabbage for a unique twist.

6. Can I make this soup creamier?

For a creamier texture, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or sour cream before serving.

Final Thoughts: Try This Slow Cooker Zesty Cabbage Beef Soup Today!

If you’re looking for a hearty, easy, and flavorful meal, this Slow Cooker Zesty Cabbage Beef Soup is the perfect choice. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table.

Try it today and enjoy the rich, savory, and zesty taste of this wholesome soup!

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