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Hearty Meatball and Cabbage Soup: A Comforting Classic for Cozy Nights

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There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade soup on a chilly day. This hearty meatball and cabbage soup combines juicy, flavorful meatballs with tender cabbage and vegetables in a rich tomato-based broth. It’s satisfying, easy to make, and perfect for cozy nights or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1 egg

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Soup:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

  • 2 celery stalks, sliced

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

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

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

  • 6 cups beef or chicken broth

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 bay leaf

  • Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix gently until just combined. Form into 1-inch meatballs (about 20–24 pieces).

  • In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

  • In the same pot, add more oil if needed. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook another minute.

  • Add cabbage and stir. Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice), broth, thyme, paprika, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.

  • Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10 minutes. Add browned meatballs to the pot. Continue simmering for 20–25 minutes until meatballs are fully cooked and cabbage is tender.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Browning the meatballs adds extra flavor but can be skipped to save time.

  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

  • Add potatoes, rice, or barley to make the soup even heartier.

  • This soup freezes well and tastes even better the next day.

Find it online: https://cookingworthy.com/hearty-meatball-and-cabbage-soup-a-comforting-classic-for-cozy-nights/