Cabbage and Sausage Soup is the kind of recipe that makes you want to gather everyone around the table with a big ladle and a warm loaf of bread. Smoky sausage, sweet carrots, tender cabbage, and savory broth all come together in a single pot for a deliciously hearty, soul-satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner on a chilly night or just want to liven up your weekly menu, this soup brings rustic charm with every spoonful, and it’s as easy to make as it is rewarding!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t need anything fancy to whip up Cabbage and Sausage Soup, but each ingredient brings its own magic—flavor, color, and cozy depth. These simple building blocks create layers of savory, sweet, and smoky notes that make every bowl memorable.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the sausage for maximum flavor.
- Smoked sausage (sliced into rounds): The star ingredient, bringing a mouthwatering smoky undertone.
- Yellow onion (diced): Provides sweetness and depth as the aromatic base.
- Garlic (minced): Brightens the broth with irresistible fragrance and zing.
- Green cabbage (chopped): Tender, slightly sweet, and hearty—the signature vegetable here.
- Carrots (sliced): Add vibrant color and just a hint of natural sweetness.
- Celery stalks (sliced): For a subtle herbal note and classic soup texture.
- Diced tomatoes (with juice): Bring tangy freshness and a pop of color.
- Chicken broth: Creates a flavorful, savory foundation for the soup.
- Dried thyme: Gives earthy warmth and aroma, tying the flavors together.
- Paprika: Adds a gentle touch of spice and a beautiful golden hue.
- Salt and black pepper: To season and bring out every nuance in the pot.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Offers a final burst of green freshness just before serving.
How to Make Cabbage and Sausage Soup
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your sliced smoked sausage and let it cook, turning to brown both sides—about 5 to 6 minutes. This step builds essential flavor, giving the whole Cabbage and Sausage Soup its deliciously savory backbone.
Step 2: Sauté the Base Vegetables
Once the sausage is browned, scoop it out and set aside. In the same pot (don’t waste those tasty browned bits!), toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until they begin to soften and the onion turns translucent.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Cabbage
Stir in the minced garlic, letting it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add your chopped green cabbage. Cook everything together for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will soften and soak up all those savory flavors.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned sausage to the pot with the veggies. Pour in the diced tomatoes (juice and all), chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir so everything’s mingling nicely.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring your soup to a boil, then immediately turn the heat down and let it simmer, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes. The carrots, celery, and cabbage will get perfectly tender and everything will be infused with savory goodness. Adjust salt and pepper if desired, and get ready to serve!
How to Serve Cabbage and Sausage Soup
Garnishes
Top each steaming bowl with a flurry of fresh chopped parsley. If you love a kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a swirl of good olive oil is wonderful too. The bright green parsley is more than just decoration; it adds a fresh lift that balances the richness of your homemade Cabbage and Sausage Soup.
Side Dishes
Pair your soup with crusty baguette slices or a whole grain roll for dunking. A simple green salad or a light cucumber salad also makes a perfect complement, adding plenty of crunch and brightness to round out your Cabbage and Sausage Soup supper.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in big bread bowls, or top each bowl with a few homemade croutons and a light sprinkle of parmesan. If you’re entertaining, ladle the soup into small mugs for a cozy appetizer, letting friends savor those smoky, hearty flavors with ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cabbage and Sausage Soup stores beautifully! Let it cool, then transfer to airtight containers and pop them in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to four days, and you might find the flavors develop and get even tastier overnight.
Freezing
This soup is just as good from the freezer! Let it cool completely and ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion. It will keep its hearty character for up to three months without losing its soul-warming charm.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat until hot, stirring occasionally. If you’re in a hurry, microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway to heat evenly. Add a splash of extra broth if needed to restore the perfect soup consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of sausage in Cabbage and Sausage Soup?
Absolutely! You can swap in turkey sausage, kielbasa, or even a spicy andouille for a different twist. Vegetarian sausage or plant-based alternatives also work for a meat-free bowl of comfort.
Can I add potatoes or other vegetables?
Yes! Diced potatoes, bell peppers, or even spinach can be added with the cabbage for extra heartiness. Just remember, potatoes will make the soup a bit thicker and more filling, so plan accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It is, as long as you double-check that your smoked sausage and chicken broth are certified gluten-free. Most varieties are, but always better to be safe if you’re serving someone with celiac or gluten intolerance.
How can I make this soup spicier?
For a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the spices, or stir in some diced jalapeños when sautéing the base vegetables. Spicy sausage varieties will also kick things up a notch!
What is the best way to meal prep with Cabbage and Sausage Soup?
Portion the cooled soup into individual storage containers for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners. It’s freezer-friendly, too, making it perfect for batch-cooking on a Sunday and enjoying cozy homemade soup all week.
Final Thoughts
If you love a meal that brings comfort, warmth, and a little bit of rustic nostalgia, you’ve got to try making this Cabbage and Sausage Soup. It’s cozy, easy, and just begging to become a regular guest on your kitchen table—so gather your ingredients and get those spoons ready!
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Cabbage and Sausage Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty and comforting Cabbage and Sausage Soup is a flavorful one-pot meal that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with smoked sausage, vegetables, and savory seasonings, this soup is easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage (sliced into rounds)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups green cabbage (chopped)
- 3 medium carrots (sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (sliced)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Brown the sliced sausage on both sides for 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add cabbage and sausage: Add chopped cabbage, return the sausage to the pot, then add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes until vegetables are tender. Adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
- This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and tastes better the next day.
- You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option or add potatoes for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
