Hearty Meatball and Cabbage Soup

When the weather cools, and you crave something comforting yet wholesome, few dishes satisfy like a steaming bowl of Hearty Meatball and Cabbage Soup. It’s a rustic, nourishing meal packed with tender homemade meatballs, savory broth, sweet cabbage, and aromatic herbs. This soup isn’t just food—it’s comfort in a bowl.

Inspired by old-world European cooking, this dish draws from traditional Polish and Russian cabbage soups but with the satisfying addition of meatballs, turning it into a one-pot meal that’s both filling and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this soup delivers both substance and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Meatball and Cabbage Soup

• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples and fresh vegetables.

• Nutritious and Satisfying: High in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.

• Customizable: Adaptable to different diets and preferences.

• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup grated onion or finely chopped

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme

• Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 4 cups chopped green cabbage (about 1/2 small head)

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

• 6 cups beef or chicken broth

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: 1 tablespoon tomato paste for depth of flavor

Optional Add-Ins and Garnishes

• 1 cup cooked rice or small pasta

• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt

• Red pepper flakes for heat

• Crusty bread for dipping

How to Make Hearty Meatball and Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

• In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to soften.

• Add the ground meat, egg, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and herbs.

• Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overworking the mixture.

• Roll into 1-inch meatballs (about 20–24 meatballs) and set aside on a tray or plate.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs (Optional)

• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

• Brown the meatballs in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side, just until lightly golden. This step adds flavor but is optional.

• Transfer to a plate. They will finish cooking in the soup.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed.

• Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes, until softened.

• Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.

• Stir in tomato paste (if using) for extra richness.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

• Add chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with their juices), broth, bay leaf, and dried herbs.

• Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Step 5: Add the Meatballs

• Carefully add meatballs to the simmering soup.

• Cover partially and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the cabbage is tender.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve

• Remove bay leaf.

• Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

• Stir in any cooked rice or pasta at this stage, if desired.

• Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a swirl of sour cream.

Tips for the Best Meatball and Cabbage Soup

1. Use Fresh Cabbage
Green cabbage is ideal for its mild sweetness and texture, but savoy or napa cabbage also work well.

2. Don’t Overmix Meatballs
Over-mixing leads to tough meatballs. Mix gently just until everything is combined.

3. Cook Low and Slow
Simmering the soup slowly allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften without becoming mushy.

4. Add Grains or Beans
White beans, barley, or brown rice can turn this into an even heartier stew-like soup.

5. Flavor Boosters
Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavor. A spoonful of tomato paste also adds richness.

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezer Tips

Make Ahead

• Prepare the meatballs and soup base a day in advance.

• Store separately and combine when ready to reheat and serve.

Storage

• Store cooled soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

Freezing

• Freeze soup (with or without meatballs) in portions for up to 3 months.

• Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

• If adding pasta, it’s best to freeze it separately or cook fresh when serving.

Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Fat: 24g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 6g

• Sodium: 620mg

These numbers vary depending on the type of meat used and optional additions like rice or cream. For a lighter version, use lean ground turkey and skip the rice.

Customization Ideas

For a Low-Carb Version

• Omit the rice or pasta.

• Use riced cauliflower or add extra cabbage and mushrooms.

Make It Spicy

• Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup base.

• Use spicy sausage instead of ground beef in the meatballs.

Vegetarian Option

• Use plant-based meatballs or lentil balls.

• Substitute vegetable broth and add extra beans or grains for protein.

Global Flavor Variations

• Add curry powder, turmeric, and coconut milk for a Thai-inspired version.

• Use smoked paprika and cumin for a Spanish flair.

• Stir in ginger and soy sauce for an Asian fusion version.

What to Serve With It

1. Crusty Bread or Rolls
Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.

2. Simple Green Salad
A light, refreshing side with lemon vinaigrette balances the rich soup.

3. Pickled Vegetables
Add contrast and brightness to the bowl.

4. Grated Parmesan or Gruyère
Sprinkle a little cheese on top for added depth and umami.

Reader Reviews and Testimonials

“I made this on a rainy Sunday and it was exactly what I needed—comforting, filling, and full of flavor.”
— Angela D.

“My kids loved the little meatballs, and the cabbage made it feel hearty and healthy. This one’s going into our weekly rotation.”
— Mike R.

“I added some leftover rice and used turkey instead of beef—turned out delicious! Great for meal prep too.”
— Sarah K.

More Cozy Soup Recipes to Try

Looking for more nourishing soups to warm up your day? Try these next:

• Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

• Italian Wedding Soup with Spinach and Orzo

• Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

• Stuffed Pepper Soup

• Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Each one delivers flavor, warmth, and satisfaction with every spoonful.

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