One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup

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If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy soup that warms you to the core with minimal effort, One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup might just become your new favorite. I came up with this recipe on a rainy day when I wanted something hearty but easy to throw together. This soup was born from a craving for something silky, savory, and full of vegetables, and I couldn’t be happier with the result.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just one pot and a handful of humble ingredients, you’re rewarded with a creamy, nourishing meal that tastes like it took all day to prepare. I adore how the cabbage becomes tender and sweet, soaking in all the creaminess while keeping its gentle texture. There’s also a whisper of herbs and a satisfying depth from a well-seasoned broth.

Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup is dependable and endlessly satisfying. It reminds me of those comforting bowls you’d get in a farmhouse kitchen, served with rustic bread and love. It’s a wonderful addition to your soup collection, much like my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts or the hearty Cheesy Cabbage Casserole.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup

This soup is truly a kitchen staple for anyone who appreciates flavor, ease, and comfort. You only need one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or when you want a quick but nourishing meal. The creamy base is indulgent without being heavy, and the combination of cabbage and aromatics is simply magical.

Ingredients

Green Cabbage: The heart of this soup, cabbage becomes wonderfully tender and slightly sweet when simmered. It adds volume and nutrition without overwhelming flavor.

Yellow Onion: This aromatic gives the base a subtle sweetness and savory depth, especially when sautéed until golden.

Garlic: A few cloves of garlic add warmth and earthiness that enhances the soup’s overall richness.

Carrots: They bring color, sweetness, and a bit of texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy broth.

Celery: For a gentle crunch and a savory backbone that balances the sweetness from the other veggies.

Butter: Adds creaminess and helps develop flavor when sautéing the vegetables.

All-Purpose Flour: Used to create a light roux, it thickens the soup and gives it that luxurious texture.

Chicken Broth: The flavorful base that infuses every spoonful with savory comfort. Use veggie broth if you prefer it vegetarian.

Heavy Cream: For that signature creaminess and smooth mouthfeel.

Salt & Pepper: Essential for balancing and bringing out the full flavor of the ingredients.

Thyme & Bay Leaf: These herbs deepen the soup’s flavor, adding an earthy and slightly floral note.

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft and lightly golden, about 6-8 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Add the Flour
Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir continuously for 2 minutes to create a roux. This helps thicken the soup later.

Step 3: Build the Base
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring. Add shredded cabbage, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and flavors have melded beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with Cream
Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls and serve warm. This soup is wonderful on its own or with crusty bread.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re looking to shake things up, there are plenty of ways to customize this One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup. For a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken broth with a hearty vegetable broth and use olive oil instead of butter. You can also add potatoes for more texture or white beans to boost the protein. If you want to include some meat, diced smoked sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken makes a great addition. Love spice? A dash of red pepper flakes adds a welcome heat.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This soup is lovely served with rustic crusty bread, buttery biscuits, or even over rice for a comforting twist. It also pairs well with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or with a sharp, tangy pickle on the side to cut through the richness. For a cozier meal, I enjoy serving it alongside my Giant Zucchini Parmesan or Oven Roasted Root Vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much after chilling, just add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it. This soup also freezes well; just leave out the cream until reheating to maintain the best texture.

FAQs

Can I freeze One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the cream added. When you’re ready to serve, reheat and then stir in the cream for a fresh, smooth finish.

How do I make One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup vegan?

Use plant-based butter or oil, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and use a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut milk or oat cream.

What kind of cabbage works best in One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup?

Green cabbage is ideal for its mild flavor and tender texture when cooked, but you can also try Napa or Savoy for a twist.

Can I add protein to One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup?

Absolutely. Shredded chicken, cooked bacon, or white beans make great protein-packed additions that won’t compromise the soup’s comforting nature.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved this cozy bowl, you should absolutely try my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti. It shares the same ease and rich flavor, perfect for comforting weeknight meals. For something with a delightful crunch, my Buffalo Roasted Cauliflower adds a flavorful twist to your vegetable game.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Make sure to save this One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup for the next time you need something easy and soothing. Pin this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when you are. Share it with friends and family who love comforting soups—it’s one of those recipes that everyone appreciates on a chilly evening or after a long day.

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