Introduction

Smoked Sausage and Cabbage Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that embodies simplicity and flavor in every spoonful. Combining smoky sausage, tender cabbage, and a medley of aromatic vegetables, this soup is perfect for cold days or when you need a satisfying, wholesome meal. Its rich broth is flavorful yet light, making it a versatile dish that works equally well for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. From the first simmer, the aroma of smoked sausage mingling with sautéed onions, garlic, and tender cabbage fills the kitchen, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Each bite delivers a balance of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, with the cabbage and carrots adding a gentle sweetness that complements the bold sausage.

What makes it truly special is how easy it is to make without sacrificing depth of flavor. In under an hour, you have a hearty, nourishing soup that feels like it’s been slow-cooked all day. The texture is fantastic too—the sausage adds bite, the vegetables provide a tender crunch, and the broth ties everything together with a rich, comforting essence.

This is a Must Try Dish

This soup perfectly balances smokiness, savoriness, and comforting warmth in every spoonful. The smoked sausage provides a rich, bold flavor that infuses the broth, while the cabbage softens to bring a subtle sweetness and tender texture. Carrots, celery, and onions add aromatic depth, making each bite both satisfying and nourishing.

It’s a must-try because it’s:

• Hearty and filling: A complete meal that’s perfect for cold days or a cozy family dinner.
• Versatile: You can adjust spice levels, add vegetables, or even make it vegetarian with smoked tofu or plant-based sausage.
• Easy yet flavorful: Despite simple ingredients, the soup tastes like it’s been simmering all day in a gourmet kitchen.
• Crowd-pleasing: Great for weeknight meals, meal prep, or serving guests—it’s warm, comforting, and universally appealing.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: ~350 kcal
• Course: Main Course, Soup
• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) smoked sausage (andouille, kielbasa, or smoked pork sausage), sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for a slight tang)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Sauté Sausage:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook Aromatics:
   In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add Broth and Seasonings:
   Pour in broth, diced tomatoes (if using), smoked paprika, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Simmer Soup:
   Add cabbage and browned sausage back to the pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes until cabbage is tender.
5. Adjust Flavor:
   Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or smoked paprika if needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.
6. Serve:
   Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or chives. Serve hot with crusty bread or rolls.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Chop all vegetables and slice the sausage.
2. Brown sausage in a large pot for flavor.
3. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
4. Add garlic and cook briefly.
5. Pour in broth, tomatoes, and seasonings; bring to a boil.
6. Add cabbage and sausage; simmer until cabbage is tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning.
8. Serve hot with garnishes.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in bowls with a side of crusty bread, cornbread, or garlic rolls.
• Top with fresh parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired.
• Pair with a light salad or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use quality smoked sausage for the best flavor.
• Slice sausage evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
• Don’t overcook cabbage; it should be tender but not mushy.
• For extra depth, simmer the soup for a few minutes longer to allow flavors to meld.

Variations

1. Spicy Version: Use spicy andouille sausage or add red pepper flakes.
2. Vegetable-Loaded: Add potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for more volume and nutrition.
3. Tomato-Free: Omit diced tomatoes for a purely smoky and savory soup.
4. Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for richness.
5. Instant Pot Version: Sauté sausage and vegetables in an Instant Pot, then pressure cook with broth and cabbage for 10 minutes.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle for serving

FAQ

Q1: Can I use turkey or chicken sausage?
Yes, smoked or spicy turkey/chicken sausage works well for a lighter version.

Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, flavors deepen if the soup rests overnight in the fridge.

Q3: Can I add potatoes?
Absolutely, diced potatoes add heartiness and blend well with the cabbage.

Q4: How do I avoid mushy cabbage?
Add cabbage later in the cooking process and simmer just until tender.

Q5: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, omit sausage and use vegetable broth, adding hearty vegetables like mushrooms, beans, or tofu for protein.

Conclusion

Smoked Sausage and Cabbage Soup is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. With its smoky sausage, tender vegetables, and rich broth, it’s perfect for cold days, weeknight dinners, or meal prepping. Its versatility and simple ingredients make it a must-try recipe for anyone seeking a wholesome, hearty, and satisfying soup.