If you are searching for a comforting yet healthy meal, this Low Carb Cabbage Soup Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Bursting with rich flavors from tender ground beef, fragrant herbs, and hearty cabbage, it offers a satisfying meal that fits perfectly into Paleo, Whole30, and gluten-free lifestyles. What makes it truly special is how it manages to be both hearty and low in carbs without sacrificing taste or texture, making it an absolute winner for anyone aiming to eat clean without feeling deprived.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows multiple clear glass bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each containing different ingredients. Starting from the top left, there is a large bowl filled with light green and white shredded cabbage, next to it on the right is a white bowl filled with rich brown beef broth. Below the cabbage are fresh green parsley leaves and a dark green bay leaf placed on the surface. A small bowl of finely chopped white onion sits below the parsley. To the right of the onion and bay leaf, there are several small clear glass bowls with various dry spices including beige garlic powder, light brown onion powder, black ground pepper, greenish thyme, white salt, finely chopped oregano, and deep red paprika. Two small garlic cloves in a clear bowl and a small amount of pale yellow oil in another small bowl are nearby. At the bottom left is a bowl of deep red chopped tomatoes with visible chunks, and next to it on the right is a bowl with raw ground beef showing a mix of dark and light red strands piled inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Low Carb Cabbage Soup Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor while keeping the dish simple and approachable. The combination of aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and quality beef results in a colorful, nutrient-packed meal that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

1 tbsp olive oil: Used to gently sauté the onions and garlic, adding a subtle fruity richness to the base.
1 large onion, finely chopped: Brings natural sweetness and depth to the soup’s foundation.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that elevates the savory notes.
1 lb lean ground beef: Provides satisfying protein and a meaty heartiness essential for the soup’s body.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance and balance all the flavors.
14 oz can chopped tomatoes: Introduces acidity and a bright, juicy texture that complements the beef and cabbage.
6 cups shredded cabbage: The star ingredient, offering crunch, volume, and incredible low-carb fiber.
1 tsp paprika: Contributes a smoky warmth that deepens the flavor profile.
1 tsp garlic powder: Boosts garlic essence, rounding out the palate.
1 tsp onion powder: Intensifies the onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
1/2 tsp oregano: Brings a subtle herbal note reminiscent of Mediterranean cooking.
1/2 tsp thyme: Adds an earthy fragrance that pairs beautifully with beef and vegetables.
1 bay leaf: Infuses the broth with a delicate aroma during simmering.
5 cups beef broth: The liquid backbone that melds all ingredients and spices into a cohesive, comforting soup.
Garnish: Parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, mildly peppery finish.

How to Make Low Carb Cabbage Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Begin by heating your large pot over medium-high heat and adding the olive oil. As it warms, toss in the finely chopped onions and cook them gently for about 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant. This early step is crucial because the softened onions and garlic lay down a perfectly fragrant base that will carry the whole soup beautifully.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

After that, add the lean ground beef to the pot along with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Use a spatula to break the meat apart and cook it evenly, allowing it to brown thoroughly over 7 to 8 minutes. This caramelization step adds rich flavor and texture to the soup, so don’t rush it. A nicely browned beef base gives the soup its hearty, comforting character.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Cabbage, and Spices

Now it’s time to introduce the vibrant ingredients and spices that make this recipe so irresistible. Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes and add the shredded cabbage directly to the pot. Sprinkle in paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and toss in the bay leaf. Stir everything together meticulously to ensure every shred of cabbage and morsel of meat is coated with these delicious seasonings.

Step 4: Simmer with Beef Broth

Pour in the beef broth to cover all the ingredients and bring it up to a gentle simmer. Allow the soup to cook uncovered for about 25 minutes. This simmering time lets the cabbage soften perfectly, releasing its sweetness and blending beautifully with the savory broth. The result is a nourishing soup where every spoonful captures a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Garnish

Before serving, taste your soup and adjust with extra salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf, and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. This last touch brightens the entire dish, making each bowl feel fresh and inviting.

How to Serve Low Carb Cabbage Soup Recipe

A silver ladle filled with a rich, chunky soup sits in a pot with a white marbled texture surface underneath. The soup has three main layers visible in the ladle: the top layer is a mix of chopped green herbs scattered over the bright orange-red broth; the middle layer shows tender pieces of light yellow cabbage and finely chopped red tomatoes; the bottom layer contains small brown ground meat bits mixed with softened translucent onions and some small orange carrot pieces. The broth looks slightly oily, with a shiny texture, and the whole scene is colorful and warm. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Lightly chopped fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a fresh herbal note and a lovely pop of green against the warm colors of the soup. For an extra dash of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of red chili flakes can also add zest and mild heat, enhancing the experience without overwhelming the delicate flavors.

Side Dishes

This Low Carb Cabbage Soup Recipe shines wonderfully on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, think about simple low-carb sides like a crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon or roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic. These sides will keep the meal light while complementing the rich, meaty broth perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini pumpkins or rustic bread bowls to impress guests with a cozy presentation. You can also ladle it over cauliflower rice for a heartier experience, transforming the dish into a stew-like meal that’s still entirely low carb and satisfying. Presentation is all about making the dish feel special and welcoming.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Low Carb Cabbage Soup Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop as it rests, making leftovers potentially even tastier. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy the soup at a later date, it freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, and it will keep for up to 3 months without losing its flavor or texture. When freezing, remove as much air as possible to protect the soup from freezer burn.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without scorching. If the soup thickens too much, simply add a splash of water or broth to bring it back to the desired consistency. Microwave reheating is also an option—heat in short intervals, stirring in between for best results.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and will work wonderfully in this Low Carb Cabbage Soup Recipe. It may yield a slightly lighter flavor, so consider adding a bit more seasoning if desired.

Is this soup suitable for a vegetarian diet?

This particular recipe relies on beef broth and ground beef, so it is not vegetarian. However, you can easily adapt it by substituting vegetable broth and plant-based protein or additional vegetables to keep it delicious and low carb.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Definitely! Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce during cooking or as a garnish to give the soup some fiery personality while keeping the core flavors intact.

How can I tell when the cabbage is done?

The cabbage should be tender yet still retain a slight bite after simmering for about 25 minutes. If you prefer it softer or crunchier, adjust the cooking time slightly to your taste.

Is this soup suitable for Whole30 or Paleo diets?

Yes, this Low Carb Cabbage Soup Recipe perfectly fits both Whole30 and Paleo guidelines as it contains whole, unprocessed ingredients and no added sugars or grains.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about enjoying a warm bowl of soup that nourishes the body and soul without any guilt, and this Low Carb Cabbage Soup Recipe delivers exactly that. Whether you’re looking to eat healthier, manage carbs, or simply crave a cozy homemade meal, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Go ahead and give it a try—you might just find your new go-to comfort food that feels like a hug in a bowl!

Low Carb Cabbage Soup Recipe