Meaty Cabbage Soup (Crockpot)

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Meaty Cabbage Soup (Crockpot)

Description

This Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup is a rich, savory, slow-cooked meal packed with tender cabbage, seasoned ground meat, and low-carb vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s incredibly filling, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re deep into your keto journey or just want a comforting low-carb soup, this one delivers every time.

 Ingredients

Main

  • 1½–2 lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred)
    (or ground turkey / sausage for variation)

  • 1 small to medium green cabbage, chopped

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups cauliflower florets (optional but great for texture)

  • 1 cup celery, sliced

  • 1 cup zucchini, diced (optional)

Liquids & Seasoning

  • 4 cups beef broth (low sodium)

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional; omit for ultra-strict keto)

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, small amount is keto-friendly)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 1 bay leaf

 Instructions (Crockpot Method)

  1. Brown the Meat
    Heat oil in a skillet. Brown ground beef with onion and garlic until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.

  2. Layer the Crockpot
    Add cabbage, cauliflower, celery, zucchini, and browned meat into the slow cooker.

  3. Add Liquids & Seasoning
    Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and all seasonings. Stir gently.

  4. Slow Cook

    • Low: 6–8 hours

    • High: 3–4 hours
      Until cabbage is tender and flavors are well combined.

  5. Finish & Serve
    Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.

 Notes

  • Cabbage softens significantly as it cooks—don’t worry if it looks full at first.

  • Soup thickens naturally as it cools.

  • Tomato ingredients are optional for stricter keto plans.

 Tips for Best Results

  • Fat = Flavor: Don’t over-drain the beef fat—it keeps the soup satisfying on keto.

  • Extra richness: Add 1–2 tbsp butter or beef tallow at the end.

  • Spice boost: Smoked paprika or chili powder adds depth.

  • Meal prep: Tastes even better the next day.

 Servings

  • Makes: 6 generous servings

  • Serving size: ~1½ cups

 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

(Will vary based on ingredients used)

  • Calories: 320–360

  • Fat: 22–26g

  • Protein: 22–25g

  • Total Carbs: 8–10g

  • Net Carbs: 4–6g

  • Fiber: 3–4g

✔ Keto-friendly
✔ Gluten-free
✔ Low-carb

Health Benefits

  • Supports Ketosis: High fat, moderate protein, low net carbs

  • Gut-friendly: Cabbage is rich in fiber and antioxidants

  • Anti-inflammatory: Garlic, cabbage, and herbs support immune health

  • Highly satiating: Keeps hunger at bay for hours

  • Budget & meal-prep friendly

 Recipe Q & A

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
✔ Yes! Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Q: Can I make it on the stovetop?
✔ Yes. Simmer covered on low heat for 45–60 minutes.

Q: What meat works best?
✔ Ground beef, Italian sausage, ground turkey, or a beef/pork mix.

Q: Is cabbage okay on keto?
✔ Absolutely. It’s low in net carbs and very filling.

Q: How can I make it creamier?
✔ Add ¼ cup heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.

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