This creamy cabbage soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender cabbage, hearty potatoes, and a rich, smooth broth, it’s perfect for chilly days.
Every sip feels cozy, and the best part? It’s super easy to make! I love topping mine with a sprinkle of cheese—because who doesn’t love a bit of cheesy goodness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star here for its sweetness and health benefits. If you prefer a different taste, savoy cabbage is a lovely option with its tender leaves. Red cabbage can add a pop of color, too!
Bacon: If you want to skip the bacon or keep it vegetarian, smoked paprika can provide a nice flavor boost. Tempeh or mushrooms are great bacon substitutes, adding depth without the meat.
Heavy cream: Want a lighter version? Use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Both can still create that creamy texture.
Broth: I recommend homemade broth for the best flavor, but store-bought works fine too. Just check for low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt.
How Do I Get the Onion Perfectly Sautéed?
Sautéing onions right sets the base for your soup. The goal is to turn them sweet and soft, without burning. Here’s how:
- Use medium heat and add butter until it bubbles.
- Add the onion and stir occasionally, allowing it to soften for about 5 minutes.
- If your onion starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly. Patience is key here!
Perfectly sautéed onions make all the difference in flavor for your cabbage soup!
How to Make Creamy Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 small potato, peeled and diced
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 slices bacon, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Crusty bread, for serving
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cabbage soup takes about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, and the flavors only get better as it simmers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more to bring out that wonderful aroma.
2. Add the Veggies:
Now, it’s time to stir in the diced carrots and potatoes. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add in the chopped cabbage and pour the broth over everything. Bring it to a gentle boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until your vegetables are tender.
3. Cook the Optional Bacon:
While the soup is simmering, you can prepare the bacon (if you’re using it). In a separate skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, drain it on paper towels and set it aside for garnishing later!
4. Make it Creamy:
Once your vegetables are tender, it’s time for the magic touch! Stir in the heavy cream and fresh dill. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently, but be careful not to boil it after adding the cream.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Grab some bowls and ladle the creamy cabbage soup into them. If you used bacon, sprinkle the crispy bits on top, and add extra dill for a lovely garnish. Serve up the soup with crusty bread on the side and a dollop of sour cream if you like. Delicious!
This creamy cabbage soup is a wonderful way to warm up on chilly days, and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
Can I Use Frozen Cabbage for This Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the soup. This will help maintain the soup’s creamy consistency!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the richness may vary slightly!
How Long Will Leftover Soup Last?
Leftover creamy cabbage soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened, you might want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas to the mix. Just remember to chop them into smaller pieces and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything cooks evenly.
