If you’re craving something hearty, nutritious, and super comforting, you’ve got to try this Instant Pot Cabbage Soup Recipe. It’s a beautiful blend of tender cabbage, tender ground beef, and vibrant veggies all simmered together in a rich tomato and beef broth base. The Instant Pot makes this soup come together quickly without losing any of the deep, cozy flavors you want in a good bowl of soup. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a meal prep superstar, this recipe delivers warm, satisfying goodness with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but packed with flavor, each playing an important role in building this delicious soup. From the sweetness of the carrots to the savory richness of beef broth and the comforting earthiness of potatoes, every element balances perfectly.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté onions and beef, adding richness and depth to the soup’s base.
- Onion: Provides a sweet and aromatic foundation when sautéed.
- Extra lean ground beef: Adds hearty protein and a satisfying texture.
- Garlic: Infuses a warm, pungent kick that brightens the whole dish.
- Tomato sauce: Brings a smooth, concentrated tomato flavor that thickens the broth.
- Fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Adds smoky depth and a pop of freshness with their juices.
- Beef broth: The savory backbone of the soup, enhancing every ingredient with umami richness.
- Paprika: Offers subtle smokiness and color that elevates the flavor profile.
- Italian seasoning: Blends herbs that complement the tomato and beef perfectly.
- Green cabbage: The star veggie that becomes tender and slightly sweet when cooked.
- Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and a pleasant texture contrast.
- Russet potatoes: Add heartiness and soak up the flavorful broth beautifully.
- Salt & pepper: The simple final touch to balance and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Instant Pot Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Olive Oil
Start by heating olive oil in your Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions are soft, translucent, and aromatic. This step builds the flavor base you’ll want for every delicious spoonful ahead.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Garlic
Next, toss in the garlic and ground beef. Stir occasionally, letting the beef brown and the garlic become fragrant in about 5 minutes. Browning the beef well is key—it seals in juiciness and adds that deep meaty flavor that makes this soup so comforting.
Step 3: Add Vegetables, Tomatoes, and Broth
Once your beef is browned, add in the tomato sauce, fire-roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, paprika, Italian seasoning, chopped cabbage, carrots, and diced potatoes. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Soup
Seal the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to “sealing.” Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Because the pot is full, it will take roughly 15 minutes to build up pressure. During this time, the flavors meld beautifully and the veggies soften to tender perfection.
Step 5: Quick Release and Season
When the cooking time finishes, do a quick pressure release by carefully switching the valve to “venting.” Once all pressure has been released, open the lid and season the soup with salt and pepper to your taste. That’s it—your kitchen is filled with the aroma of pure comfort!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and get ready for warm, satisfying bites. This Instant Pot Cabbage Soup Recipe is truly one of those all-in-one meals that feels like a hug in a bowl.
How to Serve Instant Pot Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To take your soup to the next level, try topping it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast. A little grated Parmesan works wonders, too, adding a savory punch that complements the veggies beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping, or a warm grilled cheese sandwich for a kid-friendly meal. A simple green salad on the side can lighten things up and add fresh crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy gathering, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls—hollowed-out sourdough works perfectly. Or, offer toppings like chopped scallions, crumbled bacon, or shredded cheese so everyone can customize their bowls. Presentation can make this humble soup feel extra special!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making for even tastier leftovers. Just give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Instant Pot Cabbage Soup Recipe easily in portion-sized containers or freezer bags. Keep it stored for up to 3 months for a convenient, ready-made meal that warms your heart anytime.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until piping hot. If it feels a bit thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken make great leaner alternatives. You can also use plant-based crumbles if you want a vegetarian version—just make sure to use vegetable broth instead.
Is it necessary to sauté the beef first?
While you can skip browning, sautéing the beef adds extra flavor and texture to the soup. It helps render some fat and develop a richer, more complex taste.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add celery, bell peppers, or green beans for extra color and nutrition. Just keep an eye on cooking times to ensure everything becomes tender evenly.
What if I don’t have fire-roasted tomatoes?
Regular diced tomatoes work just fine, though fire-roasted add a subtle smoky note that complements the cabbage and beef nicely. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika to mimic that flavor.
Is this soup spicy?
Nope, this Instant Pot Cabbage Soup Recipe is mild and comforting. If you like a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when serving.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Cabbage Soup Recipe quickly becomes one of those meals you turn to again and again because it’s simple, satisfying, and packed with wholesome flavor. It’s perfect when you want a nourishing dinner without lots of fuss, and the Instant Pot makes the whole process a breeze. Give it a try, and soon you’ll be sharing this cozy favorite with all your friends and family too!
