As the crisp air of autumn descends, nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty Cabbage and Sausage Soup simmering on the stove. I often find myself craving those cozy, comforting flavors, especially after a long day. This delightful recipe is my go-to when I want something that fills the house with irresistible aromas and nourishes my family.
With just a handful of ingredients, including savory Italian sausage and fresh vegetables, this soup is an unexpected burst of flavor that brings joy to any dinner table. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for using up that cabbage lingering in your fridge. Best of all, it’s a satisfying one-pot meal that’s sure to impress—even the pickiest eaters! Let’s dive into creating this soul-soothing dish that embraces the simplicity of homemade cooking while delivering a restaurant-worthy experience.
Why is Cabbage and Sausage Soup so satisfying?
Comforting warmth: This hearty soup wraps you in cozy flavors that feel like a warm hug on chilly evenings.
Quick and easy: With just one pot and 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal without fuss.
Packed with nutrients: Fresh vegetables and protein-rich sausage make this dish as wholesome as it is tasty.
Versatile delight: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or spices to make it truly your own!
Family favorite: Its savory, aromatic essence is sure to please both kids and adults alike, turning any meal into a celebration.
Cabbage and Sausage Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive oil – Adds a rich flavor and helps to sauté the sausage and vegetables.
• Bulk Italian sausage – Provides a savory depth; feel free to substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Italian seasoning – Enhances the flavors of the vegetables; if you don’t have it, a mix of dried oregano and basil works well.
• Yellow onion – Adds sweetness and aroma to the broth.
• Carrots – Bring in natural sweetness and a splash of color.
• Celery – Contributes a delightful crunch and flavor base.
For the Veggies
• Green cabbage – The star ingredient of this Cabbage and Sausage Soup; its texture holds up wonderfully in broth.
• Garlic – Infuses the soup with an irresistible aroma and taste.
For the Broth
• Low-sodium chicken stock – Complements the veggies and sausage perfectly; vegetable broth can also be used for a vegetarian version.
• Diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• Bay leaf – A simple herb that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.
Optional Garnish
• Chopped parsley – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch when sprinkled on top before serving.
How to Make Cabbage and Sausage Soup
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Heat oil: In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer before adding the crumbled Italian sausage and cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
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Sauté veggies: Stir in the Italian seasoning, diced onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook this colorful mix for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
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Add cabbage: Toss in the diced cabbage and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cabbage begins to wilt and turn vibrant green.
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Combine ingredients: Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and add the diced tomatoes and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, letting those flavors meld beautifully.
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Simmer soup: Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows all the ingredients to come together and deepen in flavor. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
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Finish up: Before serving, remove the bay leaf and check for any final seasonings. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top for extra richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cabbage and Sausage Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play with this recipe and transform it into something uniquely yours!
- Turkey Sausage: Swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey to create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use plant-based sausage or omit the meat entirely and double up on the veggies for a hearty, meatless option.
- Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery kick that contrasts beautifully with the savory broth.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving for a luxuriously creamy texture.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost that elevates every spoonful.
- Root Vegetable Medley: Replace some of the cabbage with sweet potatoes or parsnips for a sweet and earthy flavor twist.
- Zesty Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the soup and adds a refreshing touch to every bite.
- Grain Boost: Toss in some cooked quinoa or barley for extra heartiness and a delightful chewy texture that compliments the soup perfectly.
What to Serve with Cabbage and Sausage Soup?
Warm up your dinner table and enhance your family meal with delightful sides that perfectly complement this hearty soup.
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Crusty Bread: The rustic texture and flavor of fresh bread soaked in the savory broth creates a satisfying experience.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky delights are an irresistible side for dipping, adding a crunchy, flavorful twist to each bite.
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Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the soup, offering a refreshing contrast.
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Cheesy Polenta: Creamy, cheesy polenta brings a comforting richness that pairs beautifully with the soup’s flavors and adds a delightful texture.
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Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add a touch of color and sweetness, while their slight crunch plays well against the soup’s softness.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies caramelized to perfection adds depth to your plate and enhances your meal’s wholesome vibe.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, nothing finishes a warm meal quite like a sweet, spiced apple crisp served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting close.
Expert Tips for Cabbage and Sausage Soup
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality sausage will elevate the flavors of your Cabbage and Sausage Soup, creating a richer, tastier dish.
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Avoid overcooking cabbage: Cook the cabbage just until it wilts; overcooking can lead to mushy texture, so keep an eye on it!
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Balance flavors: Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning. A bit of extra salt or black pepper can really bring the flavors to life.
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Customize to your taste: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite vegetables or herbs like thyme or bay leaves to make this Cabbage and Sausage Soup uniquely yours.
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Leftover magic: This soup keeps well in the fridge and improves in flavor the next day! Store leftovers and enjoy easy meals throughout the week.
Make Ahead Options
These Cabbage and Sausage Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, and cabbage) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can brown the Italian sausage and combine it with the sautéed vegetables up to 24 hours ahead; simply refrigerate this mixture. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, pour in the chicken stock, diced tomatoes, and bay leaf before bringing it to a simmer. This way, you’ll have a comforting, homemade meal that feels just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Cabbage and Sausage Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Cabbage and Sausage Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion.
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw the soup in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, adding a bit of broth if needed.
Tip: Always remember to remove the bay leaf before storing or freezing to maintain the best flavor!
Cabbage and Sausage Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose a ripe cabbage?
When selecting a cabbage, look for a firm head with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any heads that have dark spots, blemishes, or wilting leaves. A heavier head indicates a fresher and denser cabbage, which will add a lovely crunch to your Cabbage and Sausage Soup!
How should I store leftover Cabbage and Sausage Soup?
Store your leftover soup in an airtight container and place it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to lock in freshness. To enjoy later, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens.
Can I freeze Cabbage and Sausage Soup?
Absolutely! For freezing, divide the soup into portions and use freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and reheat on the stovetop.
What to do if my soup is too salty?
If you find your soup is too salty after seasoning, don’t worry! You can balance the flavors by adding a splash of lemon juice or tossing in a diced potato as it simmers. The potato will absorb some of the excess salt, helping to mellow out the flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations for Cabbage and Sausage Soup?
This recipe can easily be adapted for dietary needs! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage and substitute it with a plant-based protein like beans or lentils. For anyone with allergies, always check your specific seasoning blends and choose gluten-free broth if needed.
How can I keep the cabbage from getting mushy?
To prevent your cabbage from becoming mushy in the soup, cook it until just wilted—about 3-4 minutes after adding it to the pot. Also, simmering the soup for a shorter time will help maintain that delicious crunch! Enjoy the texture as much as the flavor in your Cabbage and Sausage Soup!
Hearty Cabbage and Sausage Soup That Warms Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer before adding the crumbled Italian sausage and cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, diced onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook this colorful mix for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
- Toss in the diced cabbage and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cabbage begins to wilt and turn vibrant green.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and add the diced tomatoes and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, letting those flavors meld beautifully.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows all the ingredients to come together and deepen in flavor. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
- Before serving, remove the bay leaf and check for any final seasonings. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.