Low Carb Cabbage Beef Soup
Low Carb Cabbage Beef Soup Hearty, Comforting, and Perfect for Keto & Diabetic Diets
This Low Carb Cabbage Beef Soup (also known as unstuffed cabbage roll soup) is a flavorful, filling one-pot meal that tastes just like traditional cabbage rolls — without all the work or the carbs. Packed with tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and aromatic vegetables in a rich broth, it’s the ultimate cozy dinner for cold days or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Very low in net carbs — excellent for keto and blood sugar management
- High in protein and fiber to keep you satisfied
- One-pot wonder with simple, budget-friendly ingredients
- Make-ahead and freezer-friendly
- Tastes even better the next day
Ingredients (makes 8 servings)
- 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 large head green cabbage (about 2–2.5 lbs), chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce (no sugar added)
- 2 carrots, sliced (optional — omit for lower carbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat, fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and carrots (if using).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This soup freezes exceptionally well — portion into containers for quick low-carb meals. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate — based on 8 servings, without carrots)
- Calories: ~280
- Fat: 18g
- Total Carbs: ~11g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Net Carbs: ~7g
- Protein: 22g
Macros can vary based on brands and exact ingredients. Use a nutrition app for precision.
Pro Tips for Success
- For even lower carbs, skip the carrots.
- Use ground turkey or a beef/turkey mix for a lighter version.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end for brightness.
- For creamier soup, stir in ½ cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.
- Make it in the slow cooker: brown the beef first, then cook on low for 6–7 hours.
This Low Carb Cabbage Beef Soup is a reader-favorite staple — hearty, satisfying, and truly guilt-free!
