If you’ve never had homemade cabbage soup, prepare to be surprised by how delicious it is. Cabbage gets wonderfully tender as it simmers, soaking up the tomato-herb broth and adding a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
It’s also one of those soups that’s endlessly flexible — toss in extra veggies, beans, or even sausage if you’d like. It’s perfect for using up whatever’s in your fridge while still feeling hearty, healthy, and satisfying.
Whether you’re watching your calories, looking for a meatless dinner, or just craving comfort, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Vegetables & Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- ½ medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Seasonings & Herbs:
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried basil or oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans or kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup chopped potatoes for extra heartiness
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (brightens flavor)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make This Cozy Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the cabbage and tomatoes
Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices.
Step 3: Add broth and seasonings
Pour in the broth, then add salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, basil, and the bay leaf. Stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the cabbage and carrots are tender.
Step 4: Adjust and finish
Taste and adjust seasonings. If desired, stir in apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for brightness. For extra richness, add beans or potatoes during the last 15 minutes of simmering.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Cozy Cabbage Soup
- Slice cabbage evenly. Uniform pieces cook evenly and soften beautifully.
- Don’t rush the simmer. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor.
- Use broth, not water. Vegetable or chicken broth gives the soup richness.
- Add acid at the end. A splash of vinegar or lemon juice wakes up the flavor.
- Watch the salt. Cabbage can absorb seasoning differently — taste before adding more.
- Add beans or lentils to make it a complete protein-packed meal.
- Make it spicy. A pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper adds a nice kick.
- Use a mix of green and red cabbage for color and sweetness.
- Store overnight. It tastes even better the next day.
- Serve with toppings. Try sour cream, Greek yogurt, or fresh herbs for an extra touch.
Variations & Substitutions
- Italian-style cabbage soup: Add white beans and Italian herbs, top with Parmesan.
- Cabbage roll soup: Add ground beef or turkey, rice, and a splash of tomato sauce.
- Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and skip any meat.
- Low-carb: Skip potatoes or beans and load up on more veggies.
- Spicy version: Stir in cayenne pepper, paprika, or diced jalapeños.
- Smoky bacon version: Start by frying chopped bacon, then sauté vegetables in the drippings.
- Creamy twist: Stir in a little cream or coconut milk at the end.
- Eastern European flair: Add sauerkraut for tang and caraway seeds for aroma.
- Asian-inspired: Add soy sauce, ginger, and a drizzle of sesame oil.
- Cabbage & sausage: Add sliced smoked sausage or kielbasa for a heartier dish.
What to Serve With Cozy Cabbage Soup
- Crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
- Cornbread or biscuits for a Southern touch.
- Simple green salad for freshness.
- Roasted potatoes or baked sweet potatoes on the side.
- Grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting combo.
- Crackers or breadsticks for crunch.
- Sautéed greens like kale or spinach.
- Rice or quinoa to make it more filling.
- Pickled veggies or sauerkraut for a tangy contrast.
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for richness.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Cool before storing. Prevents condensation and soggy texture.
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently: Warm over medium heat — avoid boiling.
- Add water or broth if the soup thickens after chilling.
- Store without toppings. Add herbs or cream just before serving.
- Make ahead: Flavors deepen after a day in the fridge.
- Freeze flat in bags for easy stacking and faster thawing.
- Microwave reheating: Use 1-minute intervals, stirring between.
- Do not overcook reheated cabbage. It can become mushy.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, though the color will darken slightly — flavor remains delicious. - Can I use frozen cabbage?
Fresh is best, but frozen works fine for convenience. - Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Absolutely — cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4. - Can I add meat?
Yes, ham, sausage, or ground beef are classic additions. - Can I use canned tomatoes with herbs?
Yes! They add even more flavor. - How do I thicken the soup?
Mash a few potatoes or beans into the broth for a thicker texture. - Is this soup healthy?
Very — it’s low in fat, high in fiber, and full of vitamins. - Can I make it spicy?
Add chili flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce to taste. - What kind of broth works best?
Vegetable broth for a lighter taste, chicken broth for richness. - Does cabbage get bitter?
Not if cooked properly — simmer gently and avoid overcooking.