Smokey Beef Cabbage Soup

Smokey Beef Cabbage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy meals. The combination of tender beef, fresh cabbage, and sweet corn, simmered in rich beef broth with a touch of smoky seasoning, creates a comforting, well-balanced soup.

It’s easy to prepare and offers a satisfying blend of textures and deep, savory flavors that are sure to please!

Smokey Beef Cabbage Soup

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef or beef stew meat

1 small head of cabbage, chopped

3 medium potatoes, diced

1 large onion, chopped

2 ears of corn, kernels removed (or 1 cup frozen corn)

6 cups beef broth

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional: fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions:

Brown the beef: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or beef stew meat, breaking it up if using ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Cook the vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the beef and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the diced potatoes, cabbage, and corn kernels to the pot.

Add seasonings: Sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the vegetables and beef. Stir to coat everything evenly.

Simmer the soup: Pour in the beef broth, making sure the vegetables are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Taste and adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Enjoy the hearty, smoky flavor!

Notes:

Meat Options: You can use ground beef for a quicker cook or beef stew meat for a heartier texture. For extra smokiness, consider adding smoked sausage or bacon.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra color and flavor. You can also substitute frozen corn if fresh isn’t available.

Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a few of the cooked potatoes with a fork before serving, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last few minutes of simmering.

Seasoning Flexibility: Smoked paprika gives a great smokey flavor, but you can also add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked chipotle powder for an extra kick.

Freezing: This soup freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Serving Ideas: Serve with crusty bread or a side of warm biscuits to soak up the flavorful broth.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat type.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer them to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to increase the heat.

Adjust to your taste.

Can I use pre-made beef broth?

Yes, using pre-made beef broth is perfectly fine.

Just make sure to choose a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or add a few drops of liquid smoke for a similar flavor.

Can I use cabbage from a bag of pre-cut coleslaw mix?

Yes, pre-cut coleslaw mix can be used as a substitute for fresh cabbage.

Just make sure to adjust the quantity based on the mix’s volume.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Can I add beans to this soup?

Yes, adding beans like kidney beans or black beans can make the soup more filling.

Rinse and drain canned beans before adding them to the soup.

What can I serve with this soup?

Serve with crusty bread, rolls, or a side salad for a complete meal.

A dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese can also add extra flavor.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

The flavors often deepen and improve after a day or two.