If you’re craving a bowl of hearty comfort that brings warmth and satisfaction to any day, this Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with flavorful slices of golden-browned kielbasa, tender cabbage, and a medley of garden vegetables all swimming in a savory broth, this soup feels like a cozy hug in a bowl. It’s straightforward to prepare, wonderfully nourishing, and perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, fresh ingredients come together to create a vibrant soup full of texture, color, and robust flavor. Each component plays a key role, from the smokiness of the kielbasa to the sweetness of the carrots and the earthiness of the potatoes.
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds: Adds a delicious smoky and meaty backbone to the soup.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Provides a savory foundation and subtle sweetness when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Lends aromatic warmth to every spoonful.
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped: Brings gentle crunch and a fresh, slightly sweet flavor.
- 3 large carrots, sliced: Offer a natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 3 medium potatoes, diced: Add heartiness and help thicken the broth naturally.
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the flavorful base that ties all ingredients together.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice: Contributes a bright acidity and body to the soup.
- 1 bay leaf: Enhances depth with a gentle herbal note.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional): Amp up the smoky flavor if you want an extra kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and elevate all flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of green and a pleasant herbal finish.
How to Make Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Kielbasa
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until it’s beautifully browned on both sides, releasing those mouthwatering smoky aromas. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup, so don’t rush it! Once browned, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, use the rendered fats from the kielbasa to your advantage. Toss in the diced onion and cook it gently until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it work its magic for another minute until fragrant—this layering of flavors will make your soup truly irresistible.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Broth
Now it’s time to bring in the bulk of the soup. Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and the entire can of diced tomatoes including their juice. Toss in the bay leaf and sprinkle in smoked paprika if you’ve decided to include it. Pour in the broth, stir everything together well to combine all the tasty bits from the bottom of the pot, and bring it up to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes. This slow simmer allows the potatoes and carrots to soften perfectly, the cabbage to mellow out, and all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Keep the lid slightly ajar if you want a thicker broth, or cover fully for a lighter consistency.
Step 5: Add Kielbasa and Seasonings
Return the browned kielbasa slices to the pot and season with salt and pepper to your taste. Let the soup heat through for a few more minutes so the kielbasa absorbs some of the savory broth flavors, then remove the bay leaf before serving.
How to Serve Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley sprinkled on top instantly brightens the soup with a pop of color and fresh herbal tones. If you enjoy a little extra kick, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a swirl of sour cream can elevate the experience. For added texture, toasted bread crumbs or a light drizzle of olive oil can be delightful finishing touches.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread or warm pretzel rolls, perfect for dipping. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup nicely, balancing the meal without overpowering those comforting flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe in rustic bowls to highlight its homey character. For a fun twist, you can hollow out small round loaves of bread and ladle the soup inside for edible bowls. Adding a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar or melting a bit of Swiss cheese on top under the broiler makes for a cozy and indulgent presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup tastes even better the next day once all those rich flavors have had more time to mingle. Store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to remove the bay leaf before refrigerating to avoid an overly intense herbal taste.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions until steaming hot. If the soup thickens too much during storage, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up to your preferred consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage instead of kielbasa?
Absolutely! While kielbasa adds a signature smoky flavor, smoked Italian sausage or even chorizo can be delicious substitutes, each bringing its own unique flair to the soup.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your sausage and broth are gluten-free products. Always check labels if you have gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply swap the kielbasa for a hearty plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth. You won’t lose any of the comforting heartiness and you’ll have a fabulous vegetarian meal.
What’s the best way to store leftovers for taste retention?
Cool the soup promptly and store in airtight containers. Keeping the soup refrigerated within two hours maintains freshness and prevents bacterial growth. Reheat only the portion you plan to eat to preserve flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Feel free to customize! Adding celery, bell peppers, or green beans can add delicious variation in texture and flavor while still complementing the core ingredients of this soup.
Final Thoughts
This Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that whispers comfort in every bite. It manages to be both satisfying and simple, highlighting humble ingredients elevated by thoughtful preparation. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how quickly it becomes one of your favorite go-to meals for chilly days or anytime you crave a bowl of homemade goodness.
Print
Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Polish
Description
This hearty Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish made by simmering smoked kielbasa with cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes in a rich broth. Enhanced with garlic, onions, and optional smoked paprika, this soup is perfect for a cozy meal and easy to prepare in under an hour.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Kielbasa: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced kielbasa over medium heat until it’s nicely browned to release flavorful oils. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same pot, add the diced onion and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, diced tomatoes with juice, bay leaf, and smoked paprika if using. Mix well to combine everything evenly.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Add Kielbasa and Seasonings: Return the browned kielbasa to the pot and stir. Season the soup with salt and pepper to your taste, and let it heat through for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving the soup hot, perfect for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage or bratwurst if preferred.
- Using vegetable broth makes this soup suitable for vegetarians if you replace kielbasa with a plant-based sausage alternative.
- Adjust smoked paprika quantity according to your taste preference for smokiness.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
- Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar before serving can brighten the flavors if desired.
