Name: Super Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, chopped; 2 quarts water; 4 teaspoons chicken bouillon; 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 1/2 head cabbage, cored and coarsely chopped; 1 (14.5 ounce) can Italian-style stewed tomatoes, drained and diced

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 3 reviews

If you ever find yourself with a head of cabbage and want a dish that is both comforting and bursting with flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen, then this Super Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe is your new best friend. This soup is a delightful balance of hearty cabbage, savory tomatoes, and aromatic garlic and onion, all simmered to tender perfection. It’s nourishing, vibrant, and incredibly simple to pull together, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy comfort food cravings. You’ll be amazed how such few ingredients create a bowl of warmth and satisfaction that your whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A silver metal pot filled with clear broth soup containing soft, light green cabbage pieces floating at the top and throughout the liquid, with small bits of onion mixed in, sitting on a white marbled surface. The pot handles are shown, and a white cloth with red stripes is placed underneath it. The soup looks warm and light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Super Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredient list is straightforward but packs plenty of punch. Each component contributes a unique layer, from the olive oil’s smooth richness to the tangy brightness of stewed tomatoes, creating a delicious harmony in every spoonful.

3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
1/2 onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor that builds depth.
2 cloves garlic, chopped: Brings a fragrant, slightly spicy warmth that wakes up the soup.
2 quarts water: The liquid foundation that cooks the cabbage and melds all flavors.
4 teaspoons chicken bouillon: Infuses the broth with a rich, savory boost that ties everything together.
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Enhances all the flavors, making the soup sing.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
1/2 head cabbage, cored and coarsely chopped: The star of the show, providing texture, nutrients, and hearty substance.
1 14.5 ounce can Italian-style stewed tomatoes, drained and diced: Offers a bright acidity and juicy sweetness that complements the cabbage beautifully.

How to Make Super Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring occasionally until the onion becomes transparent and tender, about 5 minutes. This process releases their natural sweetness and lays down the perfect flavor base for the soup.

Step 2: Build the Broth

Pour in the water and add the chicken bouillon, salt, and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil, which will set the stage for the cabbage to cook evenly and absorb all those robust tastes.

Step 3: Add Cabbage and Simmer

Carefully stir in the chopped cabbage. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook until the cabbage begins to wilt, approximately 10 minutes. This step softens the cabbage just enough while keeping its satisfying bite.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes

Next, add the drained and diced Italian-style stewed tomatoes. Return the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat back to low and let it simmer for 15 to 30 minutes, stirring often. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully, and the soup thickens ever so slightly, resulting in a rich, comforting dish.

How to Serve Super Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe

A white bowl full of clear soup with layers of light green cabbage pieces, soft red tomato chunks, and small bright green parsley leaves floating on top. The bowl sits on a white and beige striped cloth with red lines, and behind it, there is a large hammered copper pot with a shiny metal handle on a white marbled surface. To the left, a white plate holds a thick piece of light yellow cornbread with a crumbly texture. A silver spoon with a reflective surface lies next to the bowl on the cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the soup is delicious as is, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a grating of sharp Parmesan cheese brings an inviting pop of color and flavor. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can also add a creamy contrast that complements the cabbage’s earthiness.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm garlic breadsticks, perfect for dipping and soaking up every drop. A simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette also balances the bowl and rounds out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls to add an interactive element that’s sure to impress guests. You can also add a sprinkle of crunchy toasted nuts or seeds on top for extra texture and visual appeal. If you like things spicy, a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes can give a nice kick against the gentle flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Super Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors continue to deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.

Freezing

Feel free to freeze leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. This soup reheats beautifully, making it a perfect prepared meal to have on hand for busy days when cooking isn’t an option.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating can help maintain just the right consistency if it has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute vegetable bouillon for the chicken bouillon, and the soup will still be bursting with flavor and just as satisfying.

What type of cabbage works best in this recipe?

Green cabbage is traditional and works perfectly, but you can also experiment with Napa cabbage or Savoy cabbage for a slightly different texture and appearance.

Is this soup spicy?

This recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add some crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to give it some heat according to your taste.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Yes! Feel free to toss in carrots, celery, or potatoes for extra heartiness. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender and cooked through.

How long does it take to cook this soup?

The entire process, from start to finish, takes about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a quick, healthy dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Final Thoughts

There is something deeply satisfying about a bowl of warm soup that is easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. This Super Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe shines as a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day but comes together with such simplicity you’ll want to make it again and again. Whether you are looking to use up leftover cabbage or are simply craving a healthy, comforting meal, give this recipe a try—you just might find your new favorite way to enjoy cabbage!

Sara

Super Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need