Italian Sausage and Cabbage Soup: A Cozy, Hearty Bowl of Flavor

When the days grow colder and you crave something comforting, nothing hits the spot like a bowl of Italian sausage and cabbage soup. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul, fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, and leaves you feeling completely satisfied.

This soup is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something magical. Mild Italian sausage adds rich, savory flavor, while tender cabbage and carrots bring sweetness and crunch. Add garlic, onions, and a tomato-rich broth, and you’ve got a dish that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, Italian sausage and cabbage soup is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Let’s dive into the details and show you how to make this comforting classic!

What Is Italian Sausage and Cabbage Soup?

Italian sausage and cabbage soup is a hearty, broth-based soup made with crumbled sausage, tender cabbage, sweet carrots, and rich chicken stock. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pot dish that combines protein, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings to create a balanced and satisfying meal.

The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility—it’s delicious as a stand-alone meal or served with crusty bread for dipping. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian flavors or simply looking for a comforting, filling dish, this soup is a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Packed with Flavor: The mild Italian sausage, garlic, and tomatoes create a bold, savory base for the soup.
• Nutritious: Loaded with protein and vegetables, it’s a meal that’s both wholesome and delicious.
• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
• Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients for Italian Sausage and Cabbage Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting soup:

Ingredient	Purpose	Substitution Options
Bulk Mild Italian Sausage	Adds rich, savory flavor to the soup	Use spicy Italian sausage for a kick or ground turkey for a lighter version
Olive Oil	Used for sautéing the vegetables	Substitute with avocado oil or vegetable oil
Yellow Onion	Forms the aromatic base of the soup	Use white onions or shallots for a milder taste
Garlic	Enhances the soup with bold, savory flavor	Use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available
Carrots	Adds sweetness and texture	Substitute with parsnips for a different flavor
Green Cabbage	The star vegetable of the soup, tender and hearty	Use Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage as an alternative
Kosher Salt	Enhances the overall flavors	Adjust to taste or use sea salt
Black Pepper	Adds a touch of spice	Use white pepper for a milder flavor
Diced Tomatoes	Adds richness and acidity to the broth	Use crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
Chicken Stock	Forms the base of the soup	Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes	Adds optional heat for spice lovers	Omit if you prefer a milder soup

How to Make Italian Sausage and Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Crumble the Italian sausage into bite-sized pieces.
• Slice the onion thinly, chop the garlic, peel and slice the carrots into ¼-inch rounds, and shred the cabbage.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

• Heat 1½ tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5–7 minutes until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
• Add the garlic and carrots, and sauté for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Add the Cabbage

• Stir the shredded cabbage into the pot and season with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften.

Step 5: Build the Broth

• Add the browned sausage back to the pot, along with the diced tomatoes and chicken stock. Stir to combine.
• Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

• Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. If you like a spicier kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.

Step 7: Serve Warm

• Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread, a side salad, or simply enjoy it on its own!

Tips for the Best Italian Sausage and Cabbage Soup

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and cabbage make a big difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Keep the cabbage tender-crisp for the best texture.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust the salt, pepper, and seasonings to your preference.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors deepen over time.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 6g

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping.
• Side Salad: Pair with a light, refreshing salad to balance the hearty soup.
• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Low-Quality Sausage: The sausage is the main flavor driver, so choose a good-quality Italian sausage.
2. Skipping the Browning Step: Browning the sausage adds depth and flavor to the soup.
3. Overcooking the Cabbage: Cabbage cooks quickly; keep an eye on it to avoid mushiness.
4. Not Seasoning Enough: Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper for the perfect balance.

FAQs About Italian Sausage and Cabbage Soup

Q1: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q3: Can I freeze Italian sausage and cabbage soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can add potatoes, zucchini, or celery for extra flavor and texture.

Q5: What can I use instead of Italian sausage?
You can substitute it with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even beef for a different flavor profile.

Q6: How can I make this soup spicier?
Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for a spicier kick.

Final Thoughts: A Soup to Savor

Italian sausage and cabbage soup is the ultimate comfort food. With its rich, savory broth, tender vegetables, and hearty sausage, it’s the perfect dish for a chilly evening or any time you’re craving a cozy meal.

The simplicity of the recipe combined with the bold flavors makes it a winner for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh off the stove or reheating leftovers, this soup never disappoints.

So grab your ingredients, fire up your stovetop, and prepare to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of Italian sausage and cabbage soup. Your taste buds will thank you!

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