There’s nothing quite like a bowl of cabbage soup with kielbasa to warm you up on a chilly day. This hearty soup combines the earthy flavor of cabbage, the smokiness of kielbasa sausage, and the comforting richness of potatoes, making it the perfect dish for both cold weather and cozy nights in. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare and customizable for various dietary preferences.
If you’re looking for a simple, savory meal that’s packed with flavor, this Kielbasa soup recipe is a must-try. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or for meal prep to enjoy throughout the week, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to comfort food soups.
Let’s dive into how to make this cabbage and sausage soup, what you can add or modify based on your preferences, and why it’s such a comforting meal.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a satisfying and hearty soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage: Sliced into bite-sized pieces. You can substitute with other smoked sausages, bratwurst, turkey sausage, or vegan sausage.
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and browning the sausage.
- 3 medium leeks: Sliced into ⅛-inch rounds (white and pale green parts only).
- 2 medium carrots: Peeled and diced.
- 1 stalk celery: Diced.
- 1 small green cabbage: Chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced to add a savory depth to the broth.
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock: Use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
- 1 pound red potatoes: Diced. Red potatoes hold their shape well and add heartiness to the soup.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: For a burst of aromatic herbs.
- 1 bay leaf: To infuse the soup with a subtle, savory flavor.
- Kosher salt: To taste.
- Freshly-cracked black pepper: To taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa
Follow these easy steps to make your hearty cabbage soup with sausage:
1. Brown the Kielbasa
Start by heating the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the kielbasa sausage and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is lightly browned. This step helps develop a rich, smoky flavor. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the sliced leeks, diced carrots, and celery. Stir to combine and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Then, add the chopped cabbage and minced garlic, and sauté for another 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps to build layers of flavor.
3. Add Broth, Potatoes, and Sausage
Next, pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, and add the diced potatoes, Italian seasoning, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine. Return the browned kielbasa to the pot, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Simmer and Cook
Once the soup reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and fully cooked. This allows the flavors to meld together.
5. Season and Serve
Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. If you’d like a little extra kick, feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Serve the soup warm, and enjoy!
Flavor Profile: What Makes This Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa So Special?
This hearty cabbage soup offers a savory, smoky flavor with a comforting, satisfying texture. The kielbasa sausage adds depth and richness, with hints of garlic and spices that infuse the broth. The cabbage provides a slightly sweet, earthy flavor that balances perfectly with the savory sausage and tender potatoes. Together, these ingredients create a warm, filling dish that’s perfect for any season.
- Hearty & Comforting: The potatoes and cabbage make this soup a filling meal, while the kielbasa brings smoky, savory flavors.
- Savory & Smoky: The kielbasa, garlic, and Italian seasoning create a robust, savory flavor, while the bay leaf adds subtle, herbal notes.
- Customizable Heat: You can adjust the heat level by adding extra black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
Variations: Customize Your Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa
One of the best things about this kielbasa cabbage soup recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Spicy Kielbasa Soup
If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes when adding the Italian seasoning. This will give the soup an extra layer of spice and warmth.
2. Vegetarian Version
For a vegetarian or vegan option, simply substitute the kielbasa with a plant-based sausage like vegan kielbasa or bratwurst, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
3. Gluten-Free Option
Most sausages are gluten-free, but if you need to be sure, check the packaging to confirm that your kielbasa is certified gluten-free.
4. Creamy Kielbasa Soup
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk toward the end of cooking. This will add richness and smoothness to the broth.
Storage Tips: Make the Most of Your Leftovers
This cabbage soup with kielbasa is perfect for meal prep and leftovers. Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop and improve over time.
- Freeze: You can also freeze this soup for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stovetop.
Nutritional Benefits of Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa
This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Cabbage is rich in fiber and vitamin C, while potatoes provide potassium and vitamin B6. Kielbasa adds protein and flavor, while the garlic and leeks provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, it’s a well-rounded, hearty meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Why You Should Try This Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa
If you’re looking for a hearty cabbage soup that’s both comforting and full of flavor, this Kielbasa soup recipe is a must-try. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and plenty of customization options, it’s the perfect dish for any time of year. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds.
So grab your ingredients, head to the kitchen, and enjoy a bowl of this savory, smoky cabbage soup with kielbasa and potatoes!
Enjoy this recipe? Share your version of Kielbasa cabbage soup with us in the comments below or tag us on social media! If you want more comfort food ideas, check out our other recipes for cozy soups and stews.
