Name: Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-495530H35M4S
Total time: PT-495530H35M4S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 cups beef broth; 1/2 head cabbage, chopped; 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 lb ground turkey sausage; 1 onion, chopped; 28 oz can crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup quick cooking barley; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons sugar; 1 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce

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Warm, comforting scents fill the kitchen as you prepare a hearty bowl of Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Soup. This soup is perfect for chilly nights, providing a nourishing and satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. With a blend of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and aromatic spices, it’s a dish that brings the family together around the dinner table. Not only is it simple to make, but it also simmers away beautifully in your slow cooker, allowing you to come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal. You may also find Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup 4 useful.

Why You’ll Adore This Recipe

Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Soup is a fantastic twist on the traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, giving you all the comforting flavors without the hassle. Here’s what makes this soup a must-try:

Easy Preparation: Simply combine your ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work.
Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite is filled with rich beef flavor and the freshness of cabbage.
Versatile Meal: Great for lunch, dinner, or meal prep throughout the week.

You can also explore variations such as low-calorie recipes to lighten up your meals without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is key to this flavorful dish. Each component adds depth and character, with the cabbage acting as a warm, cozy base. Below are the ingredients you’ll need:

5 cups beef broth
1/2 head cabbage, chopped
1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground turkey sausage
1 onion, chopped
28 oz can crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup quick cooking barley
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon hot sauce

These ingredients come together to create a delightful soup that is both filling and nourishing.

How to Prepare Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Soup

Making your Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Soup is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to bring this delicious dish to life:

Place the chopped cabbage into your slow cooker and set it aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion until they are both cooked through. Be sure to break apart the beef as it cooks for even browning.
Drain any excess fat from the meat mixture and return it to the skillet.
Pour in the beef broth and add the crushed tomatoes (with their juices) along with the remaining ingredients: quick cooking barley, minced garlic, sugar, pepper, and hot sauce.
Combine everything well, ensuring the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Use a ladle to spoon the mixture over the chopped cabbage in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 8 to 9 hours, stirring gently before serving to combine the flavors.

Prep ~ 20 minutes, Cook ~ 8-9 hours, Total ~ 8-9 hours 20 minutes, Servings ~ 6, Kcal ~ 330 (estimated).

Make-Ahead Tips

You can make this soup ahead of time for extra convenience. To prep early, prep your vegetables and brown the meat the night before. Store the ingredients separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to combine them in the slow cooker. This makes assembling the soup a breeze on a busy day.

Storing and Reheating

If you’ve got leftovers, storing and reheating your soup is easy! Keep the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, watching for the cabbage to be tender and aromatic.

Perfect Pairings

Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Soup pairs beautifully with several accompaniments. Try these suggestions for a complete meal:

Fresh crusty bread or rolls
A simple green salad with vinaigrette
Warm cornbread for a comforting twist
Cheese toast with herbs for extra flavor

Flavor Twists and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with your Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Soup! Here are some delicious adaptations you might enjoy:

Add a variety of vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Spice it up with additional hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for more heat.
Swap ground turkey for ground chicken for a lighter version.
For a heartier soup, include white beans or lentils.
Experiment with different herbs like thyme or bay leaves to enhance the flavor profile.

Tips for Best Results

To achieve the best flavor and texture from your soup, keep these points in mind:

Always brown the meat well to deepen the flavor.
Chop your cabbage into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
Make sure to stir the soup before serving it to allow the flavors to meld.
Invest in a good quality slow cooker to ensure even cooking.

Your Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you in your cooking journey:

Can I use other proteins besides ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken also works well in this recipe.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder soup, simply omit the hot sauce or reduce the amount.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Ensure you use a gluten-free beef broth and omit the barley if you need a completely gluten-free version.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include any of your favorite veggies, such as zucchini or spinach.
How do leftovers taste?
The flavors deepen as it sits, almost tasting better the next day!

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Soup is a heartwarming dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. So gather your ingredients and let your slow cooker transform them into a soul-satisfying meal!

Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Soup

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 500-560 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free broth and omitting barley)

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Description

Warm and hearty soup with ground beef, cabbage, and aromatic spices, perfect for chilly nights.

Instructions

Place the chopped cabbage into your slow cooker and set it aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion until cooked through.
Drain any excess fat from the meat mixture and return it to the skillet.
Pour in the beef broth and add the crushed tomatoes (with juices) along with the remaining ingredients: quick cooking barley, minced garlic, sugar, pepper, and hot sauce.
Combine everything well, ensuring the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Use a ladle to spoon the mixture over the chopped cabbage in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 480-540 minutes, stirring gently before serving to combine the flavors.