This Slow Cooker Hamburger Cabbage Soup holds a special place in my heart. Growing up in the Midwest, my grandmother would prepare this hearty soup during those chilly autumn months when the fields were being harvested and the air was crisp. It’s the perfect comfort food, combining simple, rustic ingredients into a deliciously warm and satisfying meal. You’ll love making this because it requires little effort, yet delivers rich, nostalgic flavors that transport you back to simpler times.
This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of warm, crusty bread fresh from the oven, perfect for sopping up all the delicious broth. A side of coleslaw or a light, fresh salad would complement the rich flavors of the soup, adding a bit of crunch and a touch of brightness to your meal. Consider serving with a generous dollop of sour cream on top, which melts into the hot soup and adds a creamy texture.
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Slow Cooker Hamburger Cabbage Soup
Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chopped cabbage
4 cups beef broth
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chopped cabbage
4 cups beef broth
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
3. Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add the chopped cabbage, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), carrots, celery, bay leaf, dried thyme, and paprika.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir the ingredients to combine well. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Before serving, remove and discard the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
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Variations & Tips
For a slightly different flavor, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add a can of beans, such as kidney or great northern beans, to make the soup even heartier. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes would add a nice kick. Also, using fresh herbs like parsley or dill as a garnish can add a wonderful freshness to the finished dish.