Italian Sausage and Cabbage Soup

Italian Sausage and Cabbage Soup is a rustic, hearty dish packed with savory sausage, tender cabbage, and nourishing vegetables in a flavorful broth. It’s cozy, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to prepare—perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a chilly evening at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is comforting, filling, and full of bold flavors. The richness of Italian sausage blends beautifully with the sweetness of cabbage and carrots, while tomatoes and broth create a deliciously savory base. It’s budget-friendly, naturally gluten-free, and can be customized with your favorite veggies or beans for a complete meal in one pot.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• Olive oil
• Yellow onion, sliced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Carrots, chopped
• Green cabbage, shredded
• Salt and black pepper
• Diced tomatoes (canned)
• Chicken broth or stock
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove sausage and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onion and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5–7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and carrots and sauté for another 2–3 minutes.
3. Add shredded cabbage, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until cabbage begins to soften.
4. Return the sausage to the pot. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes.
5. Uncover and simmer for an additional 10–15 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 to 8 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add cannellini or kidney beans for extra protein and heartiness
• Use hot Italian sausage or more red pepper flakes for a spicier version
• Add diced potatoes or chopped kale for more texture
• Use turkey sausage for a leaner alternative
• Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter, veggie-focused soup

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

Yes, it saves time and works well in this recipe. Just be sure it’s fresh for best results.

What sausage is best for this soup?

Mild or spicy Italian sausage works well. Choose based on your spice preference.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes. Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Is this soup low-carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs as long as no potatoes or beans are added.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad make perfect sides.

Can I add pasta or rice?

Yes. Add cooked pasta or rice just before serving to bulk up the soup.

Does this soup get better the next day?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen and become even more delicious after a day in the fridge.

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

You can, but it will change the flavor slightly and give the soup a different color.

How do I make it creamier?

Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk near the end of cooking for a creamy twist.

Conclusion

Italian Sausage and Cabbage Soup is a flavorful, soul-warming dish that delivers comfort and nourishment in every spoonful. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and endlessly adaptable to your preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep staple, this soup is sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

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