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Hearty Hamburger Cabbage Soup Recipe

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4.2 from 79 reviews

A hearty and comforting Hamburger Cabbage Soup made with ground beef, fresh cabbage, tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and tender rice. This versatile soup can be prepared on the stovetop, in an Instant Pot, or a slow cooker, making it convenient and adaptable for any kitchen. Perfect for a nutritious, filling meal that combines savory flavors and satisfying textures.

Ingredients

Meat and Aromatics

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup chopped onion (about 1 medium onion)
  • ½ tablespoon garlic (minced)

Vegetables and Liquids

  • 4 cups chopped cabbage (cut in small squares, about 1 small cabbage with core removed)
  • 1 14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes
  • 15 oz can tomato sauce
  • 3 cups water
  • 2 cups beef broth (low or no salt)

Spices and Grains

  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ⅔ cup long grain white rice

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 10 minutes until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the browned beef and sauté for another 5 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
  3. Add Remaining Ingredients Except Cabbage: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, beef broth, dried parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, black pepper, bay leaf, red pepper flakes (if using), and rice. Mix thoroughly to combine.
  4. Bring to a Boil and Add Cabbage: Cover the pot and bring the soup to a boil while stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once boiling, add the chopped cabbage, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 10 minutes until the rice is al dente and the cabbage is tender, stirring occasionally.
  5. Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Serve the soup hot, optionally topped with grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor.

Notes

  • The rice will continue to absorb broth after cooking; add extra broth or water to adjust consistency when reheating leftovers.
  • For Instant Pot: Follow sauté steps in the Instant Pot, pressure cook on high for 3 minutes, and quickly release pressure. Stir in cabbage and let sit for 2 minutes to wilt before serving.
  • For Slow Cooker: Brown beef and sauté onions and garlic before adding to crockpot with other ingredients except cabbage. Cook 6 hours low or 4 hours high. Add cabbage one hour before serving to avoid over soft texture.
  • To avoid overcooked rice in slow cooker, reduce water by 1 cup and cook rice separately, adding it in at the end.
  • Adding parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top enhances flavor and freshness.