If you’re looking for a delicious, low-calorie, and nutrient-packed meal, this Cabbage Soup Recipe is the perfect choice! Whether you’re on a healthy diet, need a warming winter meal, or simply love vegetable-based soups, this recipe delivers flavor, texture, and nourishment in every spoonful.
Loaded with fresh cabbage, tomatoes, carrots, celery, onions, and herbs, this one-pot wonder is not only budget-friendly but also easy to make. It’s a great option for meal prep, as the flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup Recipe
✅ Healthy & Low-Calorie – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
✅ Easy One-Pot Recipe – Simple ingredients, quick preparation, and minimal cleanup.
✅ Versatile & Customizable – Add protein, swap veggies, or adjust the seasoning.
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!
📌 Recipe Snapshot
⏱ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🍲 Cook Time: 30 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 45 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6
🔥 Course: Soup
🌍 Cuisine: American, Healthy
💡 Looking for more cozy soups? Try this Lemon Spinach Ginger Chicken Soup for an extra boost of flavor!
Table of Contents – Find Exactly What You’re Looking For!
Table of Contents – Find Exactly What You’re Looking For!
Ingredients & Equipment Needed for Cabbage Soup
Before we start cooking, let’s go over the essential ingredients and kitchen tools you’ll need to make this hearty and healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe.
✅ Essential Equipment
To ensure a smooth cooking process, gather the following kitchen tools:
- Large Soup Pot (5-6 quarts) – Needed to hold all the veggies and broth.
- Cutting Board & Sharp Knife – For chopping cabbage and other ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon or Ladle – To stir the soup while cooking.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – Ensures accurate ingredient portions.
- Blender (Optional) – If you prefer a creamy texture.
💡 Tip: A Dutch oven works great for slow-cooking and deepening flavors!
✅ Ingredients for Cabbage Soup
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 small | green cabbage | Core removed, chopped |
| 1 medium | onion | Diced |
| 2 cloves | garlic | Minced |
| 2 large | carrots | Sliced |
| 2 stalks | celery | Chopped |
| 1 can (14 oz) | diced tomatoes | Use fire-roasted for extra flavor |
| 4 cups | vegetable broth | Or chicken broth for more richness |
| 1 cup | water | Adjust as needed |
| 1 medium | bell pepper | Chopped (optional) |
| 1 tsp | olive oil | For sautéing |
| 1 tsp | salt | Adjust to taste |
| ½ tsp | black pepper | Freshly ground |
| 1 tsp | paprika | For depth of flavor |
| 1 tsp | dried oregano | Or Italian seasoning |
| ½ tsp | red pepper flakes | Optional, for spice |
| 2 tbsp | fresh parsley | Chopped, for garnish |
| 1 tbsp | lemon juice | For brightness |
💡 Want a heartier version? Add cooked chicken or beans for extra protein!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cabbage Soup Recipe
Follow these simple steps to make a flavorful, healthy, and comforting Cabbage Soup in just one pot!
✅ Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
1️⃣ Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery.
3️⃣ Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
💡 Tip: Stirring frequently prevents the garlic from burning, which can turn it bitter!
✅ Step 2: Add the Cabbage & Peppers
4️⃣ Add the chopped cabbage and bell pepper (if using).
5️⃣ Stir well and let them cook for 3 minutes to soften slightly.
💡 Tip: Sautéing the cabbage before adding the broth enhances its flavor!
✅ Step 3: Add the Tomatoes & Broth
6️⃣ Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, and water.
7️⃣ Add the salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
8️⃣ Stir everything together and bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
💡 Tip: For a richer taste, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes!
✅ Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
9️⃣ Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
🔟 Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
💡 Tip: The longer it simmers, the more the flavors blend—30 minutes gives the best taste!
✅ Step 5: Final Touches & Serving
1️⃣1️⃣ Add lemon juice and fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
1️⃣2️⃣ Taste and adjust salt and seasonings if needed.
💡 Want a creamier texture? Blend half the soup for a mix of chunky and smooth textures!
✅ Step 6: Enjoy!
🍲 Ladle the hot cabbage soup into bowls and serve immediately.
🥖 Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
💡 Looking for more comforting soups? Try Grandma’s Chicken Soup Recipe for a classic homestyle flavor!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cabbage Soup
Even with a simple one-pot recipe, small mistakes can affect the flavor and texture of your Cabbage Soup. Here’s what to watch out for!
✅ 1. Overcooking the Cabbage
🚫 Mistake: Letting the cabbage simmer too long makes it mushy.
🟢 Fix: Cook just until tender (about 20-25 minutes). The soup will continue to develop flavor as it sits.
💡 Tip: If you prefer crunchier cabbage, add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
✅ 2. Not Layering the Flavors
🚫 Mistake: Dumping all ingredients in at once results in a bland soup.
🟢 Fix: Sauté the aromatics (onions, garlic, carrots, and celery) first to build a flavorful base.
💡 Tip: Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth before adding all the liquid—it enhances depth!
✅ 3. Using Too Much Liquid
🚫 Mistake: Adding too much broth makes the soup watery and weak in flavor.
🟢 Fix: Stick to the recipe’s 4 cups of broth + 1 cup of water ratio. You can always adjust later if needed.
💡 Tip: If your soup is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for 5-10 extra minutes to concentrate the flavors.
✅ 4. Underseasoning the Soup
🚫 Mistake: Cabbage has a mild flavor and needs proper seasoning.
🟢 Fix: Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, paprika, and lemon juice before serving.
💡 Tip: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce adds extra depth!
✅ 5. Storing It the Wrong Way
🚫 Mistake: Leaving soup in a warm pot for hours can cause it to spoil.
🟢 Fix: Let the soup cool slightly, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge within 2 hours.
💡 Tip: Cabbage Soup tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld overnight, making leftovers extra delicious.
Storage & Reheating Tips for Cabbage Soup
Proper storage keeps your Cabbage Soup Recipe fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy later. Follow these simple tips!
✅ How to Store Cabbage Soup
🟢 At Room Temperature:
- Let the soup cool for 30 minutes before storing.
- Do not leave it out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
🟢 In the Refrigerator:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day!
🟢 In the Freezer:
- Allow the soup to cool completely.
- Store in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave 1-inch space at the top of containers to allow for expansion.
💡 Tip: Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating!
✅ How to Reheat Cabbage Soup
🔥 On the Stovetop (Best Method)
- Pour soup into a pot over medium heat.
- Stir occasionally and heat for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
🔥 In the Microwave (Quick Method)
- Transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl.
- Cover with a lid or damp paper towel.
- Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
🔥 From Frozen
- Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat as usual.
- If reheating directly from frozen, simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes.
💡 Tip: Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much when reheated!
Nutritional Information for Cabbage Soup
This Cabbage Soup Recipe is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious and low-calorie meal. Below is the estimated nutrition breakdown per serving (1 bowl = ~1.5 cups).
✅ Estimated Nutrition Per Serving
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~80 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~18g |
| Fiber | ~5g |
| Sugar | ~7g |
| Protein | ~3g |
| Fat | ~1.5g |
| Saturated Fat | ~0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | ~400mg (varies by broth) |
| Vitamin A | ~45% DV |
| Vitamin C | ~60% DV |
💡 Want a heartier soup? Add lean ground turkey, shredded chicken, or beans for more protein!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cabbage Soup
Here are answers to some common questions to help you make the best Cabbage Soup Recipe every time!
✅ 1. Can I Make Cabbage Soup in a Slow Cooker?
🟢 Yes! To make slow cooker cabbage soup, follow these steps:
Sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a pan first.
Transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
💡 Tip: Add cabbage in the last 2 hours of cooking for the best texture!
✅ 2. What Can I Add for More Protein?
🟢 Great options include:
Shredded chicken or ground turkey for a lean protein boost.
Beans (kidney, white beans, or chickpeas) for a plant-based option.
Tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
💡 Tip: Add pre-cooked protein during the last 10 minutes of simmering!
✅ 3. Can I Use Red Cabbage Instead of Green Cabbage?
Yes, but it will change the color and taste.
Red cabbage gives the soup a slightly sweeter flavor and turns the broth purple.
Green cabbage is more traditional and milder in taste.
💡 Tip: For a mix of color and flavor, use half green and half red cabbage!
✅ 4. Is Cabbage Soup Good for Weight Loss?
🟢 Yes! Cabbage is low in calories and high in fiber, making it filling and nutritious.
💡 Tip: Eat it with lean protein or whole grains to stay full longer!
✅ 5. How Can I Make the Soup Spicier?
🔥 Add one of these for extra heat:
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 diced jalapeño
A dash of hot sauce before serving
💡 Tip: Benigni’s Potato Soup Recipe is another great soup with a rich, comforting flavor!
Conclusion & More Delicious Recipes to Try
This Cabbage Soup Recipe is the perfect combination of healthy, flavorful, and comforting. Whether you’re making it for meal prep, a light dinner, or a cozy winter meal, it’s packed with nutrients and deliciousness in every bite. Plus, it’s easy to customize—add your favorite protein, extra veggies, or spice it up to suit your taste!
So, grab a bowl of warm cabbage soup, pair it with some crusty bread, and enjoy a nourishing homemade meal!
More Must-Try Soup & Comfort Food Recipes:
🍋 Lemon Spinach Ginger Chicken Soup – A soothing, immune-boosting soup full of flavor.
🍗 Grandma’s Chicken Soup Recipe – A classic, heartwarming soup just like grandma made.
🥔 Benigni’s Potato Soup Recipe – A creamy, filling soup perfect for chilly nights.
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Print Recipe
Cabbage Soup Recipe: Quick, Nourishing & Perfect for Weight Loss!
Equipment
- Large soup pot (5-6 quarts)
- Cutting board & sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or ladle
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Blender (optional, for creamy version)
Ingredients
- Vegetables & Base
- 1 small green cabbage Core removed chopped
- 1 medium onion Diced
- 2 cloves garlic Minced
- 2 large carrots Sliced
- 2 stalks celery Chopped
- 1 medium bell pepper Chopped optional
Liquids & Seasoning
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes Use fire-roasted for extra flavor
- 4 cups vegetable broth Or chicken broth for more richness
- 1 cup water Adjust as needed
- 1 tsp olive oil For sautéing
- 1 tsp salt Adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper Freshly ground
- 1 tsp paprika For depth of flavor
- 1 tsp dried oregano Or Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes Optional for spice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley Chopped for garnish
- 1 tbsp lemon juice For brightness
Instructions
✅ Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- 1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- 2️⃣ Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- 3️⃣ Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
💡 Tip: Stirring prevents the garlic from burning and keeps the flavors balanced.
✅ Step 2: Add Cabbage & Peppers
- 4️⃣ Add the chopped cabbage and bell peppers, stirring well.
- 5️⃣ Cook for 3 minutes to soften slightly.
💡 Tip: Lightly cooking the cabbage before adding broth enhances its natural sweetness!
✅ Step 3: Add Tomatoes & Broth
- 6️⃣ Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, and water.
- 7️⃣ Add salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- 8️⃣ Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
💡 Tip: For a richer flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes!
✅ Step 4: Simmer & Let the Flavors Blend
- 9️⃣ Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- 🔟 Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
💡 Tip: The longer it simmers, the better the flavors develop—30 minutes gives the best taste!
✅ Step 5: Final Seasoning & Serving
- 1️⃣1️⃣ Add lemon juice and fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
- 1️⃣2️⃣ Taste and adjust salt and seasonings if needed.
💡 Tip: Blend half the soup for a mix of chunky and creamy textures!
✅ Step 6: Enjoy!
- 🍲 Ladle the hot cabbage soup into bowls and serve immediately.
- 🥖 Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
💡 Looking for more comforting soups? Try Grandma’s Chicken Soup Recipe for a classic homestyle flavor!
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop for 5-7 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
- Customizations: Try adding ground turkey, lentils, or even potatoes for extra heartiness!