This comforting Creamy Cabbage & Sausage Soup is a delightful blend of savory flavors and rich textures. It combines the heartiness of smoked sausage and bacon with the freshness of cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, all enveloped in a luscious creamy base. Whether served as a cozy weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing dish for family gatherings, this soup is sure to satisfy.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this soup not just for its incredible taste but also for its simplicity and versatility. The combination of ingredients creates a symphony of flavor that warms the soul while being incredibly easy to prepare. The smoky notes of the sausage and bacon complement the sweet crunch of the cabbage and carrots, creating a balanced dish that is both nourishing and delicious. Plus, the addition of heavy cream gives it a rich, velvety finish that makes every bowl feel like a warm embrace.
Introduction
As the colder weather rolls in, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup to chase away the chill. This Creamy Cabbage & Sausage Soup is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave comfort food that is both hearty and satisfying. With a mix of robust flavors and nutritious vegetables, this soup has everything you need to warm up and fill your belly. Let’s get into the details of how to create this scrumptious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground sausage (or smoked sausage, sliced)
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chopped cabbage
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 cups potatoes, cubed (optional, for more heartiness)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
Preparation:
Step 1:
Cook the bacon and sausage: In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. The bacon will render its fat, which will add incredible flavor to the soup. Once crispy, remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving the grease in the pot. Next, add the sausage to the pot and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. If there is excess fat after cooking, drain it off to prevent the soup from becoming too greasy.
Step 2:
Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot with the bacon grease, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Incorporate the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes (if using). Stir the mixture well and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening and melding together.
Step 3:
Add broth and tomatoes: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth along with the drained can of diced tomatoes. Stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
Step 4:
Make it creamy: After the vegetables have softened, stir in the heavy cream. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the cream to thicken slightly and the flavors to deepen.
Step 5:
Serve with bacon and cheese: Ladle the soup into bowls, and top each serving with the crispy bacon bits reserved from earlier. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. This adds a delicious creamy texture that complements the soup beautifully.
COOKING Rating:
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 stars)
This creamy soup offers an incredible mix of flavors and textures that makes it feel both special and approachable—perfect for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions:
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, making it perfect for dipping. Consider serving it alongside a simple side salad for a light yet satisfying meal. A glass of crisp white wine can also elevate the dining experience, especially if you’re enjoying this as part of a cozy dinner gathering.
Tips:
- For a spicier kick, use a spicy sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, corn, or kale, to enhance its nutritional profile.
- If you want a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup before adding the cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
40 minutes
Total Time:
55 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 21g
- Sodium: 850mg
ConclusionIn conclusion, this Creamy Cabbage & Sausage Soup is a triumph of flavor and heartiness that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s not only a great way to warm up on a chilly evening but also a fantastic option for meal prep. With ingredients that are often easy to find and minimal preparation time, this recipe has everything you need for a delightful meal.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any sausage you prefer, including turkey sausage or Italian sausage, depending on your taste preference and dietary needs.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Yes, you can substitute the sausage and bacon with plant-based options or simply omit them. You can add extra vegetables for depth of flavor and texture.
3. How can I make this soup more filling?
For a heartier dish, add more cubed potatoes or include cooked beans, such as white beans or chickpeas, for added protein and fiber.
4. Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it taste even better the next day.
5. What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If the soup is thicker than desired, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water until it reaches your preferred consistency. Adjust the seasonings afterward to balance the flavors.
