Name: Cabbage Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 head cabbage, chopped in 1 ½ inch chunks; 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped; 2 ribs celery, sliced thinly; 1/2 yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups low sodium chicken broth (vegetable broth can be used as alternative); 14.5 ounces stewed tomatoes (or just under two cups fresh cut tomatoes); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper, or to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 14 reviews

If you’re craving a hearty yet healthy meal that warms you up from the inside out, this Cabbage Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s packed with fresh cabbage, tender carrots, savory tomatoes, and just the right blend of spices to make every spoonful satisfying. Ready in under 45 minutes, this soup is a fantastic choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch. Plus, it’s a vibrant, colorful dish that feels as good as it tastes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a round light-colored cooking pot filled with many light green and white cabbage pieces. The cabbage is cut into long thin strips and layered loosely, filling the pot nearly to the top. The cabbage pieces have a mix of light green outer leaves and white inner stems visible, showing a fresh, leafy texture. The pot is set on a surface with a white marbled texture, and a dark cloth is partly visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple ingredients can make all the difference, and this Cabbage Soup Recipe relies on a handful of fresh vegetables and pantry staples that come together beautifully. Each ingredient adds its own texture, flavor, or color, making the soup as wholesome as it is delicious.

3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps sauté the aromatics.
1/2 yellow onion, chopped: Provides a sweet, savory base flavor when cooked.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a gentle pungency that deepens the soup’s taste.
8 cups low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth): The flavorful liquid foundation that carries all the ingredients together.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances and balances the natural flavors in the soup.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy, herbaceous note adding complexity.
1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and sharpness to brighten the dish.
1/2 head cabbage, chopped in 1 ½ inch chunks: The star of the show, delivering crunch, bulk, and subtle sweetness.
4 large carrots, peeled and chopped: Bring a pop of color and natural sweetness to complement the cabbage.
2 ribs celery, sliced thinly: Adds fresh, crisp undertones to the soup’s texture.
14.5 ounces stewed tomatoes (or about two cups fresh cut): Introduces acidity and a comforting tomatoey base, rounding out the flavor profile.

How to Make Cabbage Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring often until the onions become see-through and soft, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it unlocks the depth of flavor that forms the backbone of your cabbage soup.

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth next, then season the pot with kosher salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. These spices work together to elevate the vegetables, ensuring every spoonful is bursting with well-rounded flavor.

Step 3: Toss in Vegetables

Now it’s time for the star ingredients: add the chopped cabbage, carrots, celery, and stewed tomatoes. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to combine all those beautiful colors and textures in the pot. The cabbage will start to soften and absorb all those wonderful flavors during simmering.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow, gentle cooking melds the flavors and tenderizes the vegetables just right while maintaining a satisfying texture. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this step!

How to Serve Cabbage Soup Recipe

A close-up of a ladle filled with vegetable soup showing one layer of thick broth with an orange-brown color, mixed with visible chunks of light orange carrot slices, bright green celery pieces, white cabbage leaves, and small bits of red tomatoes and green herbs, held above a pot of the same soup with more vegetables visible beneath. The image background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a touch of garnish can make this simple soup feel special. Try a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt also adds a lovely creamy contrast that plays well with the tangy tomato base.

Side Dishes

While this cabbage soup stands well on its own, pairing it with warm crusty bread or garlic toast can really round out the meal. A light mixed greens salad tossed with a vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance and keeps the meal feeling bright and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this soup in rustic bowls to highlight its comforting vibe, or ladle it into hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bread bowls for a charming autumn twist. For a fun family dinner, set up a garnish station so everyone can personalize their bowls with fresh herbs, cheese, or crunchy croutons.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cabbage soup keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the freshness and flavors. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or a quick lunch the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully, which is great if you want to prepare in bulk. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty ziplock bags. Frozen cabbage soup can be kept for up to three months without losing its delicious flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until gently simmering, or microwave it in a bowl until hot. Stir occasionally to evenly distribute heat and avoid scorching. If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up.

FAQs

Can I make this Cabbage Soup Recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and you’ll have a perfectly flavorful vegetarian or vegan version. The veggies and spices ensure great taste even without any animal products.

Is cabbage soup healthy?

Yes, cabbage soup is very healthy. It’s low in calories, rich in fiber and vitamins, and packed with fresh vegetables that support digestion and immunity. It’s a great way to enjoy a nutrient-dense meal that feels hearty without being heavy.

Can I add meat to this soup?

Definitely! For a heartier option, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or even sausage. Just cook the meat separately and stir it in towards the end so it heats through without overcooking the vegetables.

How spicy is this recipe?

This version of the cabbage soup recipe is mild and comforting. If you prefer more heat, you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or serve it with hot sauce on the side to customize each bowl.

What is the best type of cabbage to use?

Green cabbage is the classic choice for this recipe because of its mild, slightly sweet flavor and it holds up well during cooking. Savoy or Napa cabbage can also work if you want a slightly different texture and taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s something genuinely satisfying about a warm bowl of homemade soup, and this Cabbage Soup Recipe hits that comforting spot every time. It’s easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your kitchen just like I have!