When the weather cools down and comfort food calls, nothing beats a hearty cabbage soup recipe packed with flavor and nutrients. With its mix of cabbage, healthy veggies, and tender seasonings, this dish has been cherished for centuries across cultures. Beyond being budget-friendly, this soup is versatile, nourishing, and can easily adapt to your dietary preferences, making it a must-have recipe for every kitchen.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about making the best cabbage soup recipe at home. From ingredient breakdowns, variations like adding shredded chicken or roasted vegetables, to serving tips and storage hacks, we’ve got you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup
Cabbage soup isn’t just another vegetable soup—it’s comfort in a bowl. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Healthy & Low-Calorie: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
- Versatile: Can be made vegetarian, vegan, or with meat for extra protein.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, everyday vegetables.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Freezes beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
- Flavorful: A balance of earthy cabbage, sweet carrots, savory onions, and herbs.
Ingredients for the Best Cabbage Soup
To create this comforting dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage (green or savoy, chopped)
- 2 large carrots (sliced into rounds)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium potatoes (cubed)
- 1 zucchini (diced, optional)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, with juices)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional additions: shredded chicken, cannellini beans, lentils, or roasted vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps for a delicious, wholesome cabbage soup recipe:
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add vegetables: Stir in bell pepper, zucchini, potatoes, and cabbage. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften slightly.
- Season generously: Sprinkle in smoked paprika, thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the veggies.
- Add liquids: Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy hot with crusty bread.
Tips for Making Perfect Cabbage Soup
- Chop vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage—it should be tender but not mushy.
- Enhance flavor with roasted vegetables: Roasting carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers before adding them adds a smoky depth.
- Add protein: Stir in shredded chicken, beans, or lentils to make it heartier.
- Finish with freshness: A splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar brightens the flavor.
Delicious Variations of Cabbage Soup
One of the best things about cabbage soup recipes is how customizable they are. Here are some tasty twists:
- Cabbage Soup with Shredded Chicken: Stir in cooked shredded chicken during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- Vegan Cabbage Soup: Skip the meat and use vegetable broth for a plant-based option.
- Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for extra heat.
- Roasted Vegetable Cabbage Soup: Roast root vegetables like parsnips, carrots, and sweet potatoes before adding to the pot.
- Apple Slaw Garnish: Top your soup with a spoonful of fresh apple slaw for a crunchy, tangy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your hearty cabbage soup with these sides for a complete meal:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping
- Grilled cheese sandwiches for a cozy combo
- Simple apple slaw to add crunch and freshness
- Green salad for extra nutrients
- Roasted vegetables as a hearty side
Storage and Freezing Tips
This soup is ideal for meal prep.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe bags, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave until hot, adding extra broth if needed.
Nutritional Benefits of Cabbage Soup
Cabbage soup isn’t just filling—it’s packed with health benefits:
- Cabbage: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Carrots & Potatoes: Provide beta-carotene and potassium.
- Onions & Garlic: Boost immunity and add depth of flavor.
- Broth & Tomatoes: Hydrating and rich in minerals.
It’s the perfect dish for those looking to incorporate healthy veggies into their diet without sacrificing flavor.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoy this cabbage soup recipe, you’ll love these other comforting dishes from our collection:
- Pink Salt Drink Recipe – a refreshing wellness booster
- Libby’s Pumpkin Bread – a classic fall favorite
- Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole – creamy and crunchy comfort food
- Greek Yogurt and Peanut Butter Nutrition – a protein-packed snack guide
- Calabaza en Tacha Recipe – a traditional sweet pumpkin dessert
Final Thoughts
This hearty cabbage soup recipe proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary comfort food. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch, a filling dinner, or a freezer-friendly meal prep option, it’s a recipe that never disappoints. With endless variations—from spicy cabbage soup to cabbage soup with shredded chicken—you can make it uniquely yours every time.
