Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup Recipe

This Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup is a warm, filling, and low-carb meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It is packed with ground beef, fresh cabbage, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings while keeping carbohydrates low. This soup is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and great for meal prep because it tastes even better the next day. One bowl provides plenty of healthy fats and protein to keep you satisfied while following a ketogenic lifestyle.

Ingredients

1 pound (450 g) ground beef
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups green cabbage, chopped
1 cup celery, sliced
1 cup zucchini, diced
1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for flavor)
5 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, choose a low-carb version)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until it is fully browned. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Mix in the chopped cabbage, celery, and zucchini. Stir everything together for about 5 minutes so the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 4: Season the Soup

Add the paprika, oregano, thyme, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir well so the vegetables and meat are evenly coated with the spices.

Step 5: Add Liquids

Stir in the tomato paste, then slowly pour in the beef broth. Add the Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix everything thoroughly.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should become tender while still holding its shape.

Step 7: Adjust the Flavor

Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer uncovered for another 5–10 minutes.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the soup. Serve hot on its own or with shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, or a spoonful of sour cream for extra richness.

Tips

Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef if preferred.
Add mushrooms or spinach for more keto-friendly vegetables.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.