If you’re craving a hearty, nutritious, and incredibly comforting bowl of goodness, this Crockpot Cabbage Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Loaded with vibrant vegetables, rich tomato flavors, and the ease of slow cooker magic, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch, this soup brings together fresh ingredients and simple steps for a satisfying dish that’s both wholesome and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this Crockpot Cabbage Soup Recipe shine. Each element plays a vital role, from delivering crunch to adding sweetness, savoriness, and that delightful depth of flavor that slow cooking brings out.
- Yellow onion: Adds a sweet and aromatic base that softens beautifully during slow cooking.
- Green cabbage: The star of the soup, providing texture, mild sweetness, and bulk.
- Green beans: Adds a tender snap and vibrant green color to balance the softer vegetables.
- Celery: Brings a subtle earthy flavor and a slight crunch.
- Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and a pop of orange brightness.
- Zucchini: Offers moisture and a delicate texture that complements the cabbage.
- Red bell pepper: Lends a mild fruity sweetness and lovely color contrast.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): Provides acidity and rich tomato flavor—Italian style adds extra depth.
- Minced garlic: Infuses the broth with warm, savory undertones.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor for a hearty, robust base.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that ties all the veggies together with herbs like oregano and basil.
- Kosher salt: Elevates all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- Ground black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the soup’s sweetness.
- Vegetable, beef, or chicken broth: The liquid heart of the soup, choosing your favorite broth customizes the flavor and richness.
- Spinach: Stirred in at the end for a fresh, leafy finish.
How to Make Crockpot Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Vegetables and Seasonings
Begin by layering your chopped yellow onion, green cabbage, green beans, celery, carrots, zucchini, and red bell pepper in the slow cooker. Adding these veggies first ensures they mingle and soften evenly during cooking. Stir in the minced garlic along with the diced tomatoes and tomato paste—these ingredients form the flavorful base of your broth. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and pepper evenly over the vegetables to build that essential taste profile right from the start.
Step 2: Pour in the Broth and Start Cooking
Pour your choice of vegetable, beef, or chicken broth over everything, giving the veggies a flavorful bath that will cook them to tender perfection. Set your slow cooker on high for four to five hours, which is perfect if you’re in a bit of a hurry. If you have the time to savor the slow-cooked depth, low for seven to eight hours is ideal. The low and slow method really lets those flavors meld together beautifully while softening even the toughest vegetable bits.
Step 3: Add Spinach and Final Seasoning Touches
In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped spinach so it wilts gently without losing its fresh, leafy goodness. This addition raises the soup’s nutritional value and adds a delightful pop of color that brightens every spoonful. Taste the soup once it’s done cooking and adjust salt and pepper to your liking. This step makes sure each bowl is perfectly seasoned and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Crockpot Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To lift this soulful soup even higher, consider topping each serving with freshly chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or chives. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a spoonful of sour cream can also add a lovely creamy touch. These simple garnishes add texture, flavor, and a burst of freshness that make every bite extra special.
Side Dishes
This soup is wonderfully versatile on its own but pairs beautifully with a few thoughtfully chosen sides. Crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. For a heartier meal, a side salad with a bright vinaigrette or a light grilled cheese sandwich creates comforting balance without overpowering the soup’s delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress friends or family? Serve this Crockpot Cabbage Soup Recipe in rustic bread bowls or mason jars for a cozy, charming touch. Adding a swirl of pesto or a dash of chili flakes on top can offer a personalized twist. Presentation is your chance to make this simple soup feel like a gourmet experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this Crockpot Cabbage Soup Recipe keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store the soup in an airtight container once it has cooled to maintain freshness and flavor. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to make sure it warms evenly.
Freezing
This soup freezes very well, making it a convenient make-ahead meal. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Label with the date and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat completely before serving.
Reheating
For the best texture and flavor, reheat your Crockpot Cabbage Soup Recipe on the stove over medium heat. Stir regularly to prevent sticking and ensure everything heats evenly. If it seems too thick, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Reheating in the microwave works too; just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring often.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work well here if fresh aren’t available. Just keep in mind that frozen veggies often release more water, so you may want to reduce the broth slightly or cook the soup a bit longer to thicken.
Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, it is! Simply choose vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth to keep it fully plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add meat to this Crockpot Cabbage Soup Recipe?
Definitely! Adding cooked shredded chicken, ground beef, or sausage can make this soup more filling and protein-packed. Add the meat after the veggies have softened or incorporate pre-cooked meat in the final cooking phase.
How spicy is this soup?
This soup is very mild as written, focused on fresh vegetable flavors and gentle Italian herbs. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce added during cooking or as a garnish can easily spice it up.
Can I prepare this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Just simmer all the ingredients in a large pot over medium heat for about 45 minutes to an hour until the vegetables are tender. Add the spinach near the end and check seasonings before serving.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Crockpot Cabbage Soup Recipe enough for anyone seeking a fuss-free, flavorful, and nourishing meal. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy loads of vegetables in one pot with minimal effort and maximum love. Give it a try and discover how a humble slow cooker can transform simple ingredients into irresistible comfort food!
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Crockpot Cabbage Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Crockpot Cabbage Soup is a hearty and healthy vegetable-packed meal that’s perfect for a cozy day. Loaded with fresh cabbage, green beans, zucchini, and other vibrant veggies, it’s slow-cooked to tender perfection and flavored with Italian seasoning, garlic, and tomato paste. Ideal for a nourishing lunch or dinner, this easy-to-make soup is both comforting and nutritious.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 3–4 cups chopped green cabbage
- 1–2 cups green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1–2 cups chopped spinach
Pantry Items
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes (Italian diced tomatoes recommended for more flavor)
- 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 1–2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 (32-ounce) package nonfat vegetable broth, beef broth, or chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients. Chop all the vegetables—onion, cabbage, green beans, celery, carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and spinach—according to the specified sizes and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker. In the slow cooker, add the chopped onion, cabbage, green beans, celery, carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste evenly. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables. Pour in the broth to cover the ingredients.
- Cook the Soup. Cover and cook on high heat for 4 to 5 hours or on low heat for 7 to 8 hours until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
- Add Spinach and Final Seasoning. Just before serving, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook for a few more minutes until the spinach is wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can use vegetable, chicken, or beef broth depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- For a more robust flavor, use Italian diced tomatoes.
- If you like a thicker soup, consider reducing the broth slightly or adding a small amount of cooked beans or lentils.
- This soup is great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or potatoes for variation.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference, adding more garlic or Italian seasoning if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
