This Low Carb Cabbage Soup is an absolute lifesaver when you’re craving something hearty, nourishing, and quick! Packed with vibrant vegetables and rich flavors, it’s the perfect soup to warm you up without weighing you down. Best of all, it’s ridiculously easy to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for those busy weeknights when you just want something healthy and satisfying on the table fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: You can have this flavorful soup ready in about 30 minutes with minimal chopping and simple ingredients.
Low-Carb and Filling: It’s light on carbs but heavy on flavor and satisfaction, making it a fantastic option for low-carb lifestyles or anyone who just wants a lighter meal.
Budget-Friendly: Cabbage and basic vegetables are inexpensive, so you can make a big pot without spending a fortune.
Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores beautifully, so you can make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to create a wholesome, belly-warming soup:

Cabbage: The star of the show; tender, sweet, and hearty when simmered.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Adds richness and a satisfying bite; choose lean for an even healthier soup.
Onion: Brings a mild sweetness and depth of flavor as it cooks down.
Garlic: Essential for a savory, aromatic base.
Celery: Adds a delightful crunch and freshness.
Carrots: A touch of natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
Diced Tomatoes: Brings tanginess and richness; use no-sugar-added tomatoes to keep it low carb.
Beef Broth or Chicken Broth: Forms the savory, comforting liquid base of the soup.
Italian Seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs that ties everything together beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste for a well-rounded flavor.
Olive Oil: For sautéing the aromatics to bring out maximum flavor.

Variations

Want to shake things up a little? Here are a few ideas:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add more hearty veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
Spicy Kick: Stir in some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a little heat.
Different Protein: Try ground chicken, sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
Extra Greens: Toss in some kale or spinach towards the end for an extra nutritional boost.

How to Make Low Carb Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté until they start to soften and become fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Push the veggies to the side and add the ground beef or turkey. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.

Step 3: Add Cabbage and Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped cabbage and canned diced tomatoes (with juices). The cabbage will seem like a lot, but it wilts down beautifully.

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Season

Add the broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Cut Cabbage Evenly: Try to chop the cabbage into even-sized pieces so they cook uniformly.
Use a Big Pot: Cabbage takes up a lot of space before it cooks down—use your largest soup pot.
Layer Flavors: Sautéing the aromatics before adding the meat and broth builds deep, rich flavors.
Customize Texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, use a bit less broth. For a thinner soup, add an extra cup of broth.

How to Serve

This soup is delightful all on its own but can be made even more special:

Garnishes:

Top with freshly chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a flavor boost.

Side Dish:

Pair it with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar, or a low-carb bread roll if you’re staying true to the low-carb theme.

For a Heartier Meal:

Add a scoop of cooked cauliflower rice to the bowl for extra bulk without adding carbs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully! Pour into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat or pop it in the microwave for a few minutes until piping hot. Add a splash of broth if it looks too thick.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage for this soup?
Absolutely! Pre-shredded cabbage can save you even more time, making this recipe even quicker to throw together.

Is this soup good for weight loss?
Yes, it’s fantastic for weight loss! It’s low in carbs and calories but still filling, making it a smart choice if you’re trying to eat lighter.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Definitely. Skip the meat and swap the broth for vegetable broth. You can also add extra veggies or even some canned beans (if carbs aren’t a major concern).

How do I keep the cabbage from getting too soft?
Keep an eye on it while simmering and start checking around the 15-minute mark. You want the cabbage to be tender but still slightly crisp for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Low Carb Cabbage Soup is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s hearty, healthy, and ridiculously easy — perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or just when you need a cozy bowl of goodness. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new go-to favorite in your kitchen!

Low Carb Cabbage Soup Recipe