If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly nutritious soup that supports your health and weight loss goals, this Cabbage Soup is about to become your new favorite recipe. It’s packed with fiber-rich cabbage, colorful vegetables, and a savory tomato broth that keeps you full and satisfied for hours. Whether you’re following Weight Watchers, counting calories, or simply trying to eat more vegetables, this easy one-pot soup is a must-try. It’s budget friendly, meal prep friendly, and absolutely delicious. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so you can always have a healthy meal ready to go.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
· Incredibly Healthy and Low Calorie: Cabbage, carrots, celery, and tomatoes are all low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetables that fill you up without weighing you down.
· High in Fiber: Cabbage and vegetables provide plenty of fiber to support digestion and keep you feeling full.
· Budget Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd.
· One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
· Meal Prep Hero: Makes a big batch that reheats beautifully for lunches all week.
· Freezer Friendly: Freeze individual portions for quick, healthy meals anytime.
· Versatile: Add ground beef, turkey, or beans for extra protein, or keep it vegetarian.
· Weight Watchers Friendly: Many of the ingredients are zero points, making this a guilt-free option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
· 1 large head green cabbage, cored and chopped
· 1 large yellow onion, diced
· 3 cloves garlic, minced
· 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
· 2 celery stalks, chopped
· 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
· 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
· 6 cups low-sodium beef broth (or chicken or vegetable broth)
· 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
· 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
· 1 teaspoon salt
· ½ teaspoon black pepper
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
· Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional add-ins: 1 lb 95% lean ground beef or ground turkey (brown before adding), 1 can (15 oz) drained kidney beans or white beans, 1 cup frozen green beans, 1 diced bell pepper, ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat, 1 bay leaf.
Note: For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the meat. For a lower-sodium version, use no-salt-added broth and tomatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Stir well to combine. The cabbage will look like a lot, but it will cook down significantly.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage and vegetables are completely tender.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your preference.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Slow Cooker Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and onions on the stovetop (if using), then transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add all remaining ingredients to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
- Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup
· Chop Cabbage Uniformly: Cut the cabbage into uniform pieces so it cooks evenly and becomes tender.
· Don’t Skip the Sauté: Sautéing the onions and garlic builds a flavorful base for the soup.
· Let It Simmer: The longer the soup simmers, the more flavorful it becomes. Let it simmer for the full 30–40 minutes.
· Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.
· Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add lean ground beef, turkey, or beans.
· Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Variations & Substitutions
· Beef Cabbage Soup: Add 1 lb browned 95% lean ground beef for a hearty, high-protein meal.
· Turkey Cabbage Soup: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
· Vegetarian Cabbage Soup: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth plus 2 cans of drained beans.
· Mexican-Inspired Cabbage Soup: Add 1 can diced green chilies, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1 teaspoon chili powder. Top with cilantro and lime.
· Italian Cabbage Soup: Add 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon dried basil. Top with Parmesan cheese.
· Low-Carb Cabbage Soup: Omit the carrots and add extra celery or bell peppers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Weight Watchers points is this soup?
On the WW program, zero-point foods include cabbage, carrots, celery, onions, and tomatoes. If you add lean ground beef, calculate points accordingly. Always check your specific program.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and onions on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
Can I add pasta or rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that pasta and rice will add calories and points. Add cooked pasta or rice when serving, or add uncooked rice during the last 20 minutes of simmering.
Is this soup gluten-free?
It can be. Use gluten-free broth and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. Always check labels.
What can I serve with cabbage soup?
A simple green salad, crusty bread, or a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. For a complete meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables.
Can I use Napa cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Yes! Napa cabbage is more tender and cooks faster. Add it during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Recipe Card: Cabbage Soup
· Prep Time: 15 minutes
· Cook Time: 40 minutes
· Total Time: 55 minutes
· Servings: 8
· Category: Soup, Main Course, Healthy
· Cuisine: American
Ingredients:
· 1 large head green cabbage, chopped
· 1 large yellow onion, diced
· 3 cloves garlic, minced
· 3 large carrots, sliced
· 2 celery stalks, chopped
· 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
· 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
· 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
· 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
· 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
· 1 teaspoon salt
· ½ teaspoon black pepper
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
· Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
- Add cabbage, carrots, and celery. Stir to combine.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 30–40 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition (per serving, approximate):
· Calories: 90
· Protein: 4g
· Carbohydrates: 15g
· Fat: 2g
· Fiber: 4g
· Sugar: 8g
Nutrition will vary based on specific ingredients and portion size.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Soup is the ultimate healthy comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s packed with fiber-rich vegetables and a savory tomato broth that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re following Weight Watchers, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a nutritious bowl of soup, this recipe delivers every time. Make a big batch and enjoy it all week long.
Have you made this cabbage soup? Share your favorite add-ins and serving ideas in the comments below!