If you are craving a comforting yet vibrant bowl of soup that warms you from the inside out, the Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together the smoky goodness of kielbasa sausage and the fresh crunch of cabbage, simmered in a flavorful broth with carrots, celery, and just the right touch of herbs and spices. It’s that perfect mix of hearty and healthy, brightened with a splash of apple cider vinegar, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner or a make-ahead meal to enjoy later, this soup promises to become your new favorite go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to making this soup shine. Each item plays a crucial role—adding depth, texture, and color—so none of these are to be skipped or rushed.
- Olive oil: Helps sauté the kielbasa and vegetables, bringing richness without overpowering flavors.
- Kielbasa sausage (14 oz): Provides a smoky, savory backbone with its distinctive seasoning and juicy texture.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Adds natural sweetness and aromatic depth to the soup.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Gives a subtle, fragrant warmth that complements the sausage perfectly.
- Carrots (3 sliced): Infuse the broth with gentle sweetness and a lovely pop of orange.
- Celery stalks (2 sliced): Bring a mild bitterness and crunch that balance the other veggies.
- Green cabbage (4 cups, chopped): The star vegetable that adds hearty texture and earthy flavor.
- Chicken broth (6 cups): Forms a light, savory base that carries all the flavors harmoniously.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, with juice): Inject a pleasant acidity and vibrant color into the soup.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle herbaceous note enhancing the overall aroma.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Boosts the smokiness and adds gentle warmth to the broth.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Provides mild heat and balances the soup’s richness.
- Salt (to taste): Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of each ingredient.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a bright, zesty lift that cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): A fresh, vibrant finish that adds color and a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Kielbasa
Start by heating your olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the kielbasa slices and let them brown beautifully on both sides—this step unlocks their smoky flavor and releases tasty oils into the pan. After about five minutes, remove the browned kielbasa and set it aside while you cook the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same pot—don’t clean out those flavorful bits—toss in diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook these for around five to six minutes, stirring often, until everything softens and the aromas fill your kitchen. This foundation is where your soup’s rich and comforting vibe really begins.
Step 3: Add Cabbage and Combine
Next, stir in the chopped green cabbage and cook for about three more minutes, just long enough to soften it slightly while keeping some texture. Then return the browned kielbasa to the pot for the flavors to mingle.
Step 4: Build the Broth and Simmer
Pour in your chicken broth and diced tomatoes (including the juice) for a bright, savory base. Sprinkle in dried thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes. This gentle simmer allows the vegetables to tenderize fully and the flavors to deepen.
Step 5: Finish with a Zing
If you like a touch of acidity to balance the soup’s richness, stir in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar right at the end. Give everything one final taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Your Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled over the top adds a vibrant splash of color and a mild herbal brightness that perfectly complements the smoky and savory notes of the soup. A little cracked black pepper on top never hurts as an extra touch of warmth.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisanal bread or a warm baguette, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious broth. For a complete meal, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the hearty soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the soup in rustic stoneware bowls with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream. You can also turn it into a stew-like dish by adding some cooked potatoes or beans for extra heartiness and texture variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe keeps really well in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in airtight containers to preserve the flavors and prevent it from absorbing any other odors. It often tastes even better the next day, as those spices have more time to develop.
Freezing
Freezing this soup is a fantastic way to have a ready-made meal any time you need it. Cool it completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. To freshen up the flavors, add a small splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage instead of kielbasa?
Absolutely! While kielbasa’s smoky flavor is a highlight, you can substitute with any smoked or spicy sausage like Andouille or chorizo for a tasty twist. Just adjust cooking times if the sausage is cooked or raw.
Is this Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and verify that your kielbasa does not contain any gluten fillers.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, skip the kielbasa and use vegetable broth. You might want to add some smoked paprika and liquid smoke for that smoky depth, plus hearty beans or mushrooms for protein and texture.
What is the best way to chop cabbage for this soup?
Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces that are easy to spoon up but still provide some satisfying crunch. Avoid shredding it too finely, as it can become mushy during simmering.
How do I adjust the soup if it tastes too salty?
If your soup ends up too salty, add a little more chicken broth or water and a dash of apple cider vinegar to balance flavors. You can also toss in a peeled potato while simmering to absorb excess salt, then remove it before serving.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly special about a warm bowl of Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe—simple ingredients transformed into full-flavored comfort that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s easy to make, forgiving to customize, and wonderfully satisfying whether you’re serving family or feeding a crowd. Give this recipe a try; I promise it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
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: Eastern European, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a hearty, comforting dish featuring smoky kielbasa sausage, tender cabbage, and a flavorful blend of vegetables simmered in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly days, this soup combines Eastern European influences with an American twist and is easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Sausage and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
Liquids and Seasonings
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for brightness)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Brown the Kielbasa: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the kielbasa slices and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are nicely browned. Remove them from the pot and set aside to add back later.
- Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook these together for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften. Stir in the chopped cabbage and continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes to slightly wilt it.
- Add Back the Kielbasa and Liquids: Return the browned kielbasa slices to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and the diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in dried thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt to taste. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes. This allows the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Finish and Serve: If using, stir in the apple cider vinegar to add a touch of brightness to the soup. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
- For a lighter version, substitute turkey kielbasa.
- Serve with crusty bread to make it a complete, satisfying meal.
