If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying soup that supports your health and weight loss goals, this High-Protein Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup is about to become your new favorite recipe. Packed with lean ground beef, fiber-rich cabbage, colorful vegetables, and a savory tomato broth, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl that keeps you full for hours. It’s the ultimate zero-point-friendly soup (when made with lean ground beef and monitored portions) that’s perfect for meal prep, cold-weather dinners, or anytime you need a nutritious, budget-friendly meal. Whether you’re following Weight Watchers, counting macros, or simply trying to eat healthier, this easy soup recipe delivers big flavor without the guilt.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
· High Protein and Filling: Lean ground beef adds a satisfying protein punch that keeps you full and energized.
· Zero Points Friendly: Cabbage, carrots, celery, and tomatoes are all zero-point foods on Weight Watchers, making this soup incredibly diet-friendly.
· Incredibly Flavorful: Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic create a rich, savory broth that tastes like it simmered all day.
· Budget Friendly: Cabbage and ground beef are inexpensive ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd.
· Meal Prep Hero: Makes a big batch that reheats beautifully for lunches all week.
· Freezer Friendly: Freeze individual portions for quick, healthy meals anytime.
· One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
· Versatile: Customize with different vegetables, beans, or spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
· 1 lb 95% lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
· 1 large head green cabbage, cored and chopped
· 1 large yellow onion, diced
· 3 cloves garlic, minced
· 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
· 2 celery stalks, chopped
· 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
· 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
· 6 cups low-sodium beef broth (or chicken broth)
· 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
· 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
· 1 teaspoon salt
· ½ teaspoon black pepper
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
· Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional add-ins: 1 can (15 oz) drained kidney beans or white beans for extra protein and fiber, 1 cup frozen green beans, 1 diced bell pepper, ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 bay leaf.
Note: For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth plus 2 cans of drained beans. For a lower-sodium version, use no-salt-added broth and tomatoes. For a spicier soup, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pot. It will look like a lot, but it will cook down significantly. Stir well to combine.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage and vegetables are completely tender.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your preference.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.
Slow Cooker Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and onions on the stovetop, then transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add all remaining ingredients to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
- Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve.
Tips for the Best High-Protein Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup
· Use Lean Ground Beef: 95% lean ground beef keeps the soup low in points while adding protein. Ground turkey or chicken are also great options.
· Chop Cabbage Uniformly: Cut the cabbage into uniform pieces so it cooks evenly and becomes tender.
· Don’t Skip the Sauté: Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery builds a flavorful base for the soup.
· Let It Simmer: The longer the soup simmers, the more flavorful it becomes. Let it simmer for the full 30–40 minutes.
· Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.
· Add Beans for Extra Protein: A can of drained kidney or white beans adds fiber and protein without many points.
· Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Variations & Substitutions
· Turkey Cabbage Soup: Substitute ground turkey for the beef for a lighter option.
· Vegetarian Cabbage Soup: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth plus 2 cans of drained beans.
· Mexican-Inspired Cabbage Soup: Add 1 can diced green chilies, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1 teaspoon chili powder. Top with cilantro and lime.
· Italian Cabbage Soup: Add 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon dried basil. Top with Parmesan cheese.
· Low-Carb Cabbage Soup: Omit the carrots and add extra celery or bell peppers.
· Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Weight Watchers points is this soup?
On the WW program, zero-point foods include cabbage, carrots, celery, onions, and tomatoes. The lean ground beef adds points, but using 95% lean beef and dividing into 8 servings keeps the points very low. Always calculate based on your specific program and ingredients.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and onions on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
Can I add pasta or rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that pasta and rice will add points. Add cooked pasta or rice when serving, or add uncooked rice during the last 20 minutes of simmering.
Is this soup gluten-free?
It can be. Use gluten-free beef broth and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. Always check labels.
Can I use ground chicken or turkey?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work beautifully and are excellent lean protein options.
What can I serve with this soup?
A simple green salad, crusty bread, or a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. For a complete meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables.
Can I use Napa cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Yes! Napa cabbage is more tender and cooks faster. Add it during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Recipe Card: High-Protein Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup
· Prep Time: 15 minutes
· Cook Time: 40 minutes
· Total Time: 55 minutes
· Servings: 8
· Category: Soup, Main Course, Healthy
· Cuisine: American
Ingredients:
· 1 lb 95% lean ground beef
· 1 large head green cabbage, chopped
· 1 large yellow onion, diced
· 3 cloves garlic, minced
· 3 large carrots, sliced
· 2 celery stalks, chopped
· 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
· 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
· 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
· 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
· 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
· 1 teaspoon salt
· ½ teaspoon black pepper
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
· Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Brown ground beef and onion. Drain fat.
- Add garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté 3–4 minutes.
- Add cabbage and stir to combine.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 30–40 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition (per serving, approximate):
· Calories: 180
· Protein: 16g
· Carbohydrates: 14g
· Fat: 7g
· Fiber: 4g
· Sugar: 7g
· Weight Watchers Points: Approximately 3–4 points per serving (varies by program)
Nutrition will vary based on specific ingredients and portion size.
Final Thoughts
This High-Protein Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup is the ultimate healthy comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s packed with lean protein and fiber-rich vegetables, making it the perfect meal for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re following Weight Watchers, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a warm, nutritious bowl of soup, this recipe delivers every time. Make a big batch and enjoy it all week long.
Have you made this high-protein cabbage soup? Share your favorite add-ins and serving ideas in the comments below!