I’m so excited to share this Creamy Cabbage and Kielbasa Soup Recipe with you! It’s a soothing, hearty bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This soup combines tender cabbage, smoky kielbasa, and a rich, velvety cream base that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re a weeknight dinner enthusiast or looking for a comforting dish to feed a crowd, this recipe brings simple ingredients together for a truly satisfying result.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this soup lies in its straightforward ingredients, each one playing a key role in building layers of taste, texture, and color. From the aromatic veggies to the flavorful kielbasa and creamy finish, these basics create something truly special.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Gives a luscious base to sauté the veggies and adds rich flavor.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- 2 large carrots, diced: Bring natural sweetness and a subtle crunch.
- 2 large ribs celery, diced: Adds a fresh, aromatic undertone and slight texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a flavorful punch that complements the sausage.
- 1 large head green cabbage, roughly chopped: The star vegetable, softening nicely and soaking up flavors.
- 14 ounces quality smoked kielbasa sausage, sliced in 1/8 inch rounds: Infuses smoky, meaty richness essential to the soup.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle herbal note that marries well with the sausage and cabbage.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors throughout the soup.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed caraway seeds: Brings a distinctive, slightly nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cabbage.
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the soup to a silky consistency without overpowering.
- 1 bay leaf: Provides a subtle earthy aroma during simmering.
- 4 cups quality chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon base: Boosts the overall savory richness of the broth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious creaminess that defines this soup.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, bright finish when serving.
How to Make Creamy Cabbage and Kielbasa Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting the butter in a heavy stock pot or Dutch oven. This step is crucial because butter gently carries the flavors of the aromatics. Cook the chopped onions until they become soft and translucent — about 5 to 7 minutes — allowing their natural sweetness to emerge. Then add the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes to soften them and build a delicious savory base. Finish this aromatic trio with garlic, cooking just one more minute to release its fragrant oils without burning it.
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage and Kielbasa
Next, toss in the roughly chopped cabbage. Let it sauté until it just begins to soften, about 5 minutes. This softening step is essential for the cabbage to meld into the soup’s texture rather than remain crunchy. Then add the sliced kielbasa sausage along with dried thyme, salt, freshly ground pepper, and crushed caraway seeds. These spices and sausage infuse smoky, herbal layers that tie perfectly with the cabbage’s earthiness.
Step 3: Thicken and Simmer
Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and cook for 2 minutes. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and starts to thicken the soup. Pour in the chicken broth along with the chicken bouillon base and add the bay leaf. Bring everything up to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium, cover, and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes. This slow simmer is where the magic happens: flavors deepen and the soup thickens beautifully.
Step 4: Add Cream and Finish
Once simmered, stir in the heavy cream, heating through but not boiling — you want to keep the cream smooth and luscious without curdling. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving. The result is a rich, silky soup that’s loaded with tender cabbage and smoky kielbasa in every comforting spoonful.
How to Serve Creamy Cabbage and Kielbasa Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley bring a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich creaminess. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a little shredded sharp cheddar can elevate the soup’s flavor even more.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every bit of the creamy broth. A crisp green salad on the side adds a refreshing crunch that balances the heartiness. Roasted potatoes or a simple slaw also make great accompaniments if you’re serving family or guests.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup inside a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic feel that’s both charming and practical. Alternatively, ladle the soup over cooked rice or egg noodles for a fuller meal presentation. A drizzle of extra cream or a dollop of sour cream on top adds visual appeal and creamy indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Cabbage and Kielbasa Soup Recipe is fantastic for leftovers. Store any uneaten soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld overnight, often tasting even better the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but be cautious with the cream. For best results, freeze before adding heavy cream; thaw completely and gently reheat before stirring in the cream. Stored properly in freezer-safe containers, it will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the soup slowly on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling once the cream is added to preserve the silky texture. You might want to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the soup if it thickens too much during refrigeration or freezing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage instead of kielbasa?
Absolutely! While kielbasa brings a smoky, slightly garlicky flavor that’s classic for this soup, you can substitute other smoked sausages or even andouille for a spicier kick. Just choose a quality sausage to maintain that savory depth.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, omit the kielbasa and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding smoked paprika can help mimic some of the smoky flavor traditionally provided by the sausage.
Can I use different types of cabbage for this recipe?
Green cabbage works best for its mild flavor and firm texture, but you can experiment with Savoy or Napa cabbage if you want a slightly different texture or taste. Just keep in mind that softer cabbages will cook down more quickly.
How thick should the soup be?
The flour combined with the cream creates a medium-thick, creamy broth that coats your spoon warmly. If you prefer it thinner, simply add more broth. If you like it thicker, let it simmer a bit longer or add a touch more flour slurry before the cream.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Sauté the aromatics and kielbasa first on the stove, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients (except cream). Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Stir in the cream right before serving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a soup that’s both cozy and bursting with flavor, this Creamy Cabbage and Kielbasa Soup Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm embrace from the inside out and is wonderfully versatile for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite in your kitchen!
