There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of soup, especially when it’s rich and creamy. Creamy Cabbage & Sausage Soup combines the flavors of savory sausage, tender cabbage, and a velvety cream base, creating a satisfying dish that is both nourishing and delicious. This soup is perfect for cold evenings, offering warmth and comfort in every spoonful. The combination of the savory sausage and the slight sweetness of the cabbage, paired with the smoothness of the cream, creates a balanced and flavorful dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Best of all, it’s easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and a little time to let the flavors meld together. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a side dish, this creamy soup is guaranteed to be a hit at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hearty and Satisfying

Packed with protein and vegetables, this soup is a complete meal in itself. The ground sausage provides a rich, savory flavor, while the cabbage adds a subtle crunch and freshness.

2. Comforting and Creamy

The addition of heavy cream gives this soup a luxuriously creamy texture, making it incredibly comforting on chilly days.

3. Quick and Easy

With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this recipe can be made in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

4. Versatile

This soup can be easily adapted to suit your taste. Add more or less sausage, experiment with spices, or throw in extra veggies—this recipe is a great base for creativity.

5. One-Pot Meal

This recipe uses just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s perfect for those who want a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Ingredients

Ground sausage
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Cabbage, chopped
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Salt and pepper

Variations

Add Potatoes: For a heartier soup, you can add diced potatoes. Simply chop them and cook along with the cabbage and sausage.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and use a meat alternative like plant-based sausage or add beans for a protein boost.
Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup a spicy edge.
Different Greens: If you prefer, you can substitute cabbage with kale or spinach for a different flavor and texture.
Herb Add-ins: Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to infuse the soup with additional flavors.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large pot, cook the ground sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Cook until fully browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage

Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until it starts to wilt down.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the cabbage become tender.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream

Once the cabbage is soft and the soup has simmered, stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Sausage Flavor: For extra flavor, use a sausage with herbs and spices that you enjoy, such as Italian sausage or a spicy chorizo.
Cabbage Cooking Time: Cabbage softens as it cooks, but if you prefer a bit more crunch, you can reduce the simmering time by a few minutes.
Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cabbage in the pot or use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup.
Seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference in bringing out the flavors.
Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. It’s perfect for meal prep!

How to Serve

This Creamy Cabbage & Sausage Soup is delicious on its own or paired with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. You can also serve it with a side salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top before serving for added richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.

Freezing

This soup freezes well! After the soup has cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup is too thick after being stored or frozen.

FAQs

1. Can I use pork sausage instead of ground sausage?

Yes, you can use pork sausage for a different flavor. You can also try turkey sausage for a leaner version.

2. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian.

3. Can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or even leeks would make great additions to this soup.

4. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days. It also freezes well for future meals.

5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage, onion, and garlic first, then transfer to the slow cooker along with the cabbage, broth, and seasoning. Cook on low for 6-7 hours, then add the heavy cream just before serving.

6. Can I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use coconut cream for a dairy-free version of this soup. It will give the soup a slightly different flavor but will still add creaminess.

7. How can I make this soup spicier?

For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or spicy sausage.

8. Can I use frozen cabbage?

Fresh cabbage works best in this soup, but you can use frozen cabbage if that’s all you have available. Just be sure to thaw it first.

9. What can I serve this soup with?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a green salad, or a simple side of roasted vegetables.

10. Can I make this soup without cream?

Yes, you can omit the cream and use milk for a lighter version. For more richness, you can also use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cabbage & Sausage Soup is the perfect combination of hearty, creamy, and comforting. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s packed with flavor and sure to please everyone at the table. With its simple ingredients and flexible variations, this recipe is great for busy weeknights or as a cozy weekend dinner. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with your favorite side dish, this soup will quickly become a go-to recipe for any occasion.