One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a pot of soup bubbling on the stove, especially when it’s loaded with tender cabbage, silky potatoes, and creamy goodness. I’ve always adored the earthy, mellow flavor of cabbage, and when paired with a rich, savory broth, it becomes something truly soul-soothing. This One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup came together on a chilly afternoon when I needed warmth, ease, and minimal cleanup.

What started as a quick meal idea turned into a household favorite. I kept things simple but flavorful, layering classic ingredients like onions and garlic, and finishing it with cream and fresh dill for brightness. There’s no need for fancy ingredients here—just a humble mix of vegetables and pantry staples that transform into a deeply satisfying dish. One pot, a bit of chopping, and about 40 minutes later, you’ve got a warm bowl of comfort.

I love how adaptable this soup is. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but also makes a lovely side to crusty bread or a sandwich. Plus, the leftovers are just as good—maybe even better—the next day. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or prepping ahead for lunches, this creamy cabbage soup will quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup

This soup is incredibly creamy without being too heavy, thanks to the natural starch of the potatoes and a splash of cream. It’s also packed with nourishing ingredients and fiber-rich cabbage, making it a wholesome choice for lunch or dinner. You’ll love that it all comes together in a single pot, reducing dishes and simplifying your kitchen cleanup. It’s a simple, rustic recipe that delivers on both taste and comfort.

Ingredients

Cabbage is the heart of this soup, offering a mild flavor that absorbs the creamy broth beautifully. When cooked, it becomes wonderfully tender and subtly sweet.

Yellow Potatoes help thicken the soup naturally as they cook, releasing their starch. They also provide body and creaminess without overwhelming the dish.

Carrots bring a hint of sweetness and color, adding a fresh counterpoint to the richness of the soup.

Onion and Garlic are essential aromatic bases, building depth of flavor from the first step.

Vegetable Broth creates the flavorful base while keeping the soup light and vegetarian-friendly.

Heavy Cream adds the luxurious creamy texture that makes this soup feel indulgent.

Butter helps to sauté the vegetables, infusing them with richness right from the beginning.

Salt and Black Pepper are essential for seasoning. Don’t be shy with these—the cabbage can take it.

Fresh Dill or Parsley adds a fresh, herby note at the end that brightens the entire dish.

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped carrots, potatoes, and cabbage. Let them cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to begin softening and building flavor.

Step 3: Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Once the vegetables are soft, stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes to heat through and slightly thicken.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in chopped fresh dill or parsley just before serving for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot with crusty bread or enjoy on its own.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of heavy cream or just want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a can of evaporated milk. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk works beautifully and gives a gentle sweetness.

Switch out the vegetable broth for chicken broth if you’re not vegetarian; it adds a richer depth of flavor. If you have green cabbage, use it in place of Savoy or Napa—any variety will soften nicely. Feel free to toss in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for added greens.

If you’re in the mood for something heartier, diced smoked sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken turns this soup into a full meal. Want a little extra tang? A spoonful of Dijon mustard stirred in at the end adds a nice bite.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup is delightful with thick slices of toasted sourdough or a piece of warm, buttered baguette. For something more substantial, serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a slice of savory quick bread.

A crisp green salad on the side balances the warmth and richness of the soup. For topping, a sprinkle of sharp cheddar or crumbled feta can add some extra depth and contrast.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm it gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

It also freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove for best texture.

FAQs

How do I thicken One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup without flour?

The starch from the potatoes does a great job of naturally thickening the soup. Just let it simmer uncovered a bit longer if you want a thicker consistency.

Can I make One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Make it in advance and reheat as needed.

What kind of cabbage works best in One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup?

I like to use green cabbage because it holds its shape well while still becoming tender. Savoy and Napa cabbage are great alternatives if you prefer something softer.

Is One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and skip any added flour, it’s naturally gluten-free.

Can I freeze One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup with cream in it?

Yes, but keep in mind the texture may change slightly. Stirring well when reheating usually brings it back together nicely.

Related Recipes You’ll Like

If you love the creamy, comforting nature of this soup, you might want to try Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup, which also has a rich base and hearty flavor. Another warm and filling option is the Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole, a satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. For more cozy, one-pot inspiration, take a look at the One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni that’s full of robust flavors.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this One-Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup to your favorite Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime! Whether you’re cooking on a chilly evening or prepping ahead for the week, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to share with friends and family. Use the share buttons on the page to send it via text, email, or your social media feed—because cozy meals like this deserve to be passed on.

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