Warm, hearty, and bursting with rich flavor, this Keto Cabbage and Beef Soup is the perfect low-carb comfort food for cold days. It’s loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and nourishing vegetables simmered in a spiced tomato broth. With only about 6 net carbs per serving, this recipe fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle while satisfying every craving for a filling, cozy meal.
Whether you make it in an Instant Pot, on the stovetop, or in a slow cooker, this soup is effortless, nutritious, and deeply satisfying — proof that eating healthy doesn’t mean giving up flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Soup
This soup is the perfect balance of simplicity and nutrition. Here’s what makes it a must-try:
- Low-carb and full of fiber: Keeps you full without spiking blood sugar.
- One-pot meal: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- High in protein: Ground beef provides long-lasting energy.
- Perfect for meal prep: Freezes and reheats beautifully.
- Rich and comforting: A satisfying soup that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 kilo ground beef
- 3 cups kale, chopped into bite-size pieces
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 (10-ounce) can green pepper tomatoes
- 1 (7-ounce) can tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 (32-ounce) container beef broth (or chicken broth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Instant Pot Method
-
Brown the beef:
Turn on the sauté function and lightly spray the bottom of the Instant Pot with oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat and turn off the sauté function. -
Add the remaining ingredients:
Add kale, bell pepper, tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, thyme, cumin, garlic powder, broth, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine everything evenly. -
Cook under pressure:
Secure the lid and ensure the steam valve is set to Sealing. Set the pressure cooker cycle for 15 minutes. It will take about 15–20 minutes to come to pressure before the countdown begins. -
Release steam:
When the cooking time ends, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5–10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining steam manually. -
Serve:
Stir the soup, taste for seasoning, and ladle into bowls. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or shredded cheese if desired.
Slow Cooker Method
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, drain, and transfer to your slow cooker.
- Add all remaining ingredients and stir well.
- Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning and serve warm.
Stovetop Method
- In a large pot, brown the beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the remaining ingredients and stir.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the flavors meld and the vegetables are tender.
- Taste, season, and serve.
Pro Tips for Success
- Drain the beef well: Prevents excess grease in your soup.
- Add heat: Sprinkle in chili flakes or cayenne for a spicy version.
- Use quality broth: A rich bone broth enhances both nutrition and flavor.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a little heavy whipping cream or cream cheese at the end for a silky texture.
- Meal prep tip: Divide leftovers into portions and freeze for easy grab-and-go keto lunches.
Keto Guidelines to Remember
If you’re following a ketogenic lifestyle, balance and awareness are key. Here are essential reminders:
- Avoid high-carb foods: No sugar, wheat, rice, beans, pasta, or potatoes.
- Stick to low-carb vegetables: Focus on leafy greens, zucchini, cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage.
- Limit fruits: Only enjoy small portions of berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.
- Hydrate properly: Drink at least half your body weight in ounces of water daily.
- Keep electrolytes in check: Add pink Himalayan salt, Powerade Zero, or pickle juice to help maintain balance.
Understanding Keto Macros
The keto diet revolves around macronutrient balance — here’s what that looks like:
- 5% Carbohydrates – Keep carbs low to stay in ketosis.
- 20% Protein – Helps maintain lean muscle mass.
- 75% Fat – Your primary energy source on keto.
Use a macro-tracking app like Carb Manager to help you stay within your limits. Remember:
- Carbs are a limit — stay under your target.
- Protein is a goal — reach it without overdoing it.
- Fat is a lever — use it to feel full, not as a requirement.
Keto-Friendly Food Lists
Meats (Zero Carbs)
- Beef: Ground beef, steaks, ribs, roasts
- Pork: Chops, bacon, sausage, ribs, loin
- Chicken/Turkey: Thighs or wings preferred for higher fat
- Fish: Tuna, salmon, cod, haddock
- Shellfish: Shrimp, crab, lobster (great with butter!)
Cheeses (Low to No Carb)
- Mozzarella, cheddar, pepper jack, parmesan, ricotta, cottage cheese, cream cheese
Vegetables (Above-Ground)
- Spinach, kale, zucchini, cauliflower, broccoli, asparagus, cabbage, bell peppers, cucumbers
Healthy Fats and Oils
- Olive oil, butter, coconut oil, MCT oil, bacon grease, vinaigrette
Beverages
- Water (lots of it!)
- Unsweetened tea or coffee
- Broth or bone broth
- Heavy whipping cream in coffee
Sweeteners
- Stevia, erythritol, monk fruit, Truvía
Benefits of Keto Cabbage and Beef Soup
- Supports ketosis: Low in carbs and rich in fat and protein.
- Improves satiety: High protein and fiber keep you full longer.
- Aids digestion: Cabbage supports gut health and detoxification.
- Boosts immunity: Nutrient-dense ingredients strengthen your defenses.
- Perfect for weight management: Low-calorie yet nutrient-packed.
Tips for Keto Newbies
If you’re new to keto, here are a few simple habits to follow:
- Drink plenty of water daily.
- Avoid hidden sugars in sauces and condiments.
- Always check food labels — carbs hide in unexpected places.
- Don’t skip electrolytes — dehydration can cause “keto flu.”
- Be patient. Your body takes time to adapt to fat burning.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes. Substitute the beef with tofu crumbles or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
Is tomato paste keto-friendly?
Yes, in moderation. It’s concentrated, so just a small amount adds flavor without too many carbs.
What kind of broth works best?
Bone broth is ideal — it adds collagen, electrolytes, and extra nutrition while keeping carbs low.
Can I add cheese or cream?
Yes! Stir in a handful of shredded cheese or a splash of heavy cream before serving for a creamy twist.
Final Thoughts
This Keto Cabbage and Beef Soup proves that healthy eating can still be flavorful, filling, and incredibly satisfying. With its rich tomato base, hearty beef, and nutrient-packed vegetables, it’s perfect for anyone on a keto or low-carb journey.
Make a big batch for the week — this soup gets even better as the flavors develop overnight. Comforting, nourishing, and keto-approved, it’s one of those recipes that make eating clean something to look forward to.