Introduction

This High Protein Cabbage Soup is a hearty, nutritious, and comforting meal packed with lean protein, tender cabbage, and flavorful vegetables in a rich, savory broth. Made with lean ground turkey, shredded cabbage, tomatoes, carrots, celery, and aromatic seasonings, this soup is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Unlike traditional vegetable cabbage soup, this protein-rich version includes lean meat and beans to make it more filling and balanced. It is perfect for a cozy dinner, healthy lunch, meal prep, or anyone looking for a delicious way to add more protein and vegetables to their meals.

The ingredients simmer together in one pot, allowing the flavors to blend into a delicious broth while the cabbage becomes tender without losing all its texture. This soup is naturally rich in vegetables and can be customized with your favorite lean protein, herbs, and spices.

Origin Information

Cabbage soup is a traditional home-style dish found in many food cultures, particularly across Europe and parts of Asia. Different regions prepare it with ingredients such as potatoes, tomatoes, beans, meat, or fermented cabbage.

This high protein version is a modern variation inspired by classic vegetable and meat-based cabbage soups. It combines lean ground turkey, beans, and vegetables to create a nourishing one-pot meal that is convenient for everyday cooking.

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Tips

• Use lean ground turkey or chicken to increase protein while keeping the soup relatively low in fat.
• Brown the meat before adding the broth to develop a deeper, richer flavor.
• Chop the cabbage into evenly sized pieces so it cooks consistently.
• Avoid overcooking the cabbage if you prefer it slightly tender rather than very soft.
• Use low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level.
• Add beans for extra protein and fiber, or leave them out if you prefer a lower-carbohydrate soup.
• For a thicker soup, mash a few of the beans into the broth or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
• Add fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the savory flavors.
• Adjust the herbs and spices according to your preference. Smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, and black pepper pair especially well with cabbage.
• Make a large batch because the flavors become even more developed after resting overnight in the refrigerator.

Storage Information

Allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it to airtight containers.

Store in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat individual portions on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until steaming hot.

For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave a little room at the top of each container for expansion.

Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly. Stir well during reheating to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Ingredient Notes

Lean Ground Turkey: Ground turkey provides a substantial amount of protein and gives the soup a hearty texture. Lean ground chicken can also be used.

Green Cabbage: Cabbage is the main vegetable in this recipe. It becomes tender as it simmers and absorbs the savory flavors of the broth.

White Beans: Cannellini or great northern beans add plant-based protein, fiber, and a creamy texture. They help make the soup more filling.

Diced Tomatoes: Tomatoes provide acidity, sweetness, and a rich base for the broth. Canned diced tomatoes are convenient, but fresh tomatoes can also be used.

Carrots: Carrots add natural sweetness, color, and a tender texture.

Celery: Celery provides a mild, savory flavor that complements the other vegetables.

Yellow Onion: Onion adds depth and natural sweetness to the soup as it cooks.

Garlic: Fresh garlic creates an aromatic base and enhances the flavor of the turkey and vegetables.

Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Chicken broth provides the liquid base and adds savory flavor. Vegetable broth can be substituted.

Tomato Paste: Tomato paste gives the broth a deeper tomato flavor and slightly thicker consistency.

Olive Oil: A small amount of olive oil helps brown the turkey and sauté the vegetables.

Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds warmth and a subtle smoky flavor.

Italian Seasoning: This herb blend complements the cabbage, tomatoes, and ground turkey.

Bay Leaf: Bay leaf adds gentle herbal depth while the soup simmers. Remove it before serving.

Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the finished soup and balances the savory ingredients.

Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds freshness, color, and a light herbal finish.

Serving Instructions

Serve this high protein cabbage soup on its own for a filling, balanced meal.

For additional protein, pair it with a boiled egg, a side of grilled chicken, or a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt.

If you prefer a heartier meal, serve it with whole-grain toast, a small baked potato, or a slice of crusty bread.

For a lower-carbohydrate option, enjoy it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.

A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley makes a flavorful finishing touch.

Print Recipe

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High Protein Cabbage Soup

Author: Dino James Cooking Method: Sauteing, Simmering Cuisine: American, Thai Courses: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course, Snack Recipe Keys: Gluten Free M Meal Prep Nut Free Quick Meals Soy Free

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins

Calories: 280

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

A hearty, comforting cabbage soup made with lean ground turkey, white beans, tomatoes, and fresh vegetables simmered in a savory herb broth. This protein-rich one-pot meal is perfect for healthy lunches, easy dinners, and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped (approximately 6 cups)
• 1 can white beans, 15 ounces, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes, 14.5 ounces
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Prepare The Vegetables

1. Wash the cabbage, carrot, celery, and parsley.
2. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the carrot, celery, and onion, and mince the garlic.
3. Drain and rinse the white beans. Set all the ingredients aside.

Brown The Ground Turkey

1. Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook for approximately 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned and fully cooked.
3. If there is excess liquid in the pot, allow it to evaporate before proceeding.

Sauté The Aromatic Vegetables

1. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pot with the turkey.
2. Cook for approximately 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
4. Add The Tomato Paste And Seasonings
5. Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt.
6. Cook for approximately 1 minute to deepen the flavors.

Add The Broth And Tomatoes

1. Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes.
2. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
3. Add the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Add The Cabbage

1. Stir in the chopped cabbage.
2. It may seem like a large amount at first, but the cabbage will soften and shrink as it cooks.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot partially.
4. Simmer for approximately 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.

Add The Beans

1. Stir in the drained white beans.
2. Continue simmering for another 5 minutes, allowing the beans to heat through and the flavors to blend.

Finish The Soup

1. Remove the bay leaf.
2. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.
3. Taste the broth and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Serve

1. Ladle the hot cabbage soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with extra parsley, freshly ground black pepper, or a little grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
3. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 280kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 8g13%

Sodium 500mg21%

Total Carbohydrate 25g9%

Dietary Fiber 7g29%

Sugars 7g

Protein 27g54%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Tools

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener
• Colander
• Ladle
• Soup bowls

Keywords: High Protein Cabbage Soup, Healthy Cabbage Soup, Ground Turkey Soup, Protein Rich Soup, Low Calorie Soup, Healthy Dinner, Cabbage Soup Recipe, High Protein Meal Prep, Vegetable Soup, Easy One Pot Soup