Cabbage Soup

Easy Homemade Cabbage Soup Recipe That’s Cozy, Healthy, and Budget-Friendly

If you’re craving a comforting, nourishing meal that doesn’t break the bank or require hours in the kitchen, this cabbage soup recipe is about to become a staple in your home. It’s simple, hearty, and packed with vegetables, making it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep Sundays, or anytime you want something warm and wholesome. Whether you’re trying to eat lighter, stretch your grocery budget, or just love a good homemade soup, this one checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup Recipe

This cabbage soup is one of those recipes that feels almost too easy for how good it tastes. It’s made with everyday ingredients, comes together in one pot, and fills your kitchen with the coziest aroma while it simmers. The flavor is surprisingly rich for such a simple soup, and it’s incredibly adaptable depending on what you have on hand. It’s naturally low-calorie, loaded with fiber, and perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying yet light meal. Best of all, it tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers and meal prep.

Serving Size and Time Breakdown

Servings: 6 generous servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Required

You don’t need anything fancy to make this cabbage soup, which is another reason it’s so popular. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 small green cabbage, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

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How to Make Cabbage Soup

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about three to four minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Add the carrots and celery to the pot and cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps build flavor and gives the vegetables a slight softness before adding the rest of the ingredients.

Next, add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, broth, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have come together.

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Best Cabbage Soup

Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly and is easier to eat. If you like a softer texture, let the soup simmer a little longer. For deeper flavor, use a high-quality broth and don’t skip sautéing the vegetables at the beginning. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar at the end to brighten up the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcrowding the pot without enough liquid. Make sure the vegetables are mostly submerged so everything cooks evenly. Another mistake is under-seasoning. Cabbage needs a good amount of salt to bring out its flavor, so taste and adjust as needed. Avoid boiling the soup aggressively for too long, as this can make the vegetables mushy and dull the flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

This cabbage soup recipe is incredibly flexible. You can add cooked shredded chicken, ground turkey, or sausage if you want extra protein. For a vegetarian protein boost, add canned white beans or chickpeas during the last 10 minutes of cooking. If you prefer a spicier soup, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

You can also swap green cabbage for savoy cabbage or napa cabbage for a slightly different texture. Adding potatoes or sweet potatoes will make the soup heartier, while zucchini or green beans work well for extra veggies.

How to Store and Meal Prep

Let the soup cool completely before storing. Transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. This soup also freezes beautifully. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave individual portions until hot.

For meal prep, portion the soup into individual containers and pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for an easy grab-and-go lunch.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve cabbage soup in deep bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a pop of color. A slice of toasted sourdough or whole-grain bread on the side makes it feel extra comforting. You can also top it with a small spoonful of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cabbage soup in a slow cooker?
Yes. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for six to eight hours or on high for three to four hours.

Is cabbage soup good for weight loss?
Cabbage soup is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a popular choice for lighter meals, though it should be part of a balanced diet.

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
You can, but keep in mind that red cabbage will change the color of the soup and slightly alter the flavor.

Does cabbage soup taste better the next day?
Absolutely. Like many soups, the flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious.

Conclusion

This easy cabbage soup recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly comforting and satisfying. It’s budget-friendly, nourishing, and endlessly customizable, making it perfect for families, meal prep, or cozy nights at home. Whether you enjoy it as is or make it your own with fun variations, this soup is one you’ll come back to again and again. Save it, pin it, and keep it in your recipe rotation for whenever you need a warm, wholesome meal without the fuss.