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Slow Cooker Creamy Cabbage Soup

Category: Nourishing Recipes That Don't Sacrifice Flavor

Slow-cooked creamy cabbage soup brings together tender cabbage, carrots, onions, and fragrant herbs in a rich, velvety broth. The addition of heavy cream and a touch of butter at the end creates irresistible silkiness, making this dish especially comforting on chilly days. Pair it with crusty bread or biscuits to soak up every bit of flavor. To enhance the meal, try it with grilled sausages or a refreshing salad. This nostalgic favorite, inspired by farmhouse kitchens, offers both heartiness and simplicity for a satisfying family dinner.

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Updated on Wed, 04 Jun 2025 00:27:11 GMT
A bowl of soup with carrots and other vegetables. Pin
A bowl of soup with carrots and other vegetables. | recipesvaleria.com

This creamy cabbage soup has been passed down in my family for generations, filling chilly nights with the cozy aroma of slow simmered vegetables and broth. Grandmas farmhouse always smelled of onions and thyme and every bite of this soup brings me right back to her bustling kitchen. Whether you are yearning for old fashioned comfort or a simple nourishing supper this recipe is sure to hit the spot

Ingredients

  • Cabbage: choose a medium head that feels heavy for its size and looks crisp and tight it is the star for texture and sweetness
  • Onion: large and firm with papery skin builds the aromatic base of flavor
  • Carrots: select ones that are bright and smooth these add natural sweetness and golden color
  • Garlic: fresh cloves make a big difference for a warming punch
  • Chicken or vegetable broth: opt for homemade or low sodium to control salt
  • Water: balances flavor and keeps the soup hearty but not too rich
  • Heavy cream: always use real heavy cream for lush consistency
  • Butter: unsalted if possible gently enriches the soup
  • Salt: just enough to season without taking over
  • Black pepper: freshly ground brings a subtle heat
  • Dried thyme: quality dried herbs are key to the classic rustic profile
  • Dried parsley: for freshness and color go for bright green and fragrant
  • Paprika: adds gentle warmth a smoky or sweet type both work well
  • Bay leaf: infuses a very subtle background aroma always remove before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step One Prepare the Vegetables:
Chop the cabbage into bite sized pieces dice the onion slice the carrots and mince the garlic Make sure everything is cut evenly so it cooks at the same rate
Step Two Layer in the Slow Cooker:
Add all the chopped vegetables to the slow cooker This gives a balance of flavors as they cook together
Step Three Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and water Sprinkle in the salt pepper thyme parsley paprika and add the bay leaf Stir everything gently to combine so seasonings spread evenly
Step Four Cook Slowly:
Cover with the lid Set to low and cook for six to eight hours or use the high setting for three to four hours The long slow cook draws out sweetness from the cabbage and lets flavors meld perfectly
Step Five Finish the Soup:
When the vegetables are meltingly tender lift out and discard the bay leaf Stir in the heavy cream and butter allowing both to fully melt and make the soup creamy Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed
Step Six Serve:
Ladle into bowls and serve piping hot Pair with crusty bread or biscuits to make sure not a drop of broth is left behind
A bowl of food with carrots and other vegetables. Pin
A bowl of food with carrots and other vegetables. | lottirecipes.com

Storage Tips

Let the soup cool and store portions in airtight containers It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days For longer storage freeze individual servings so you can thaw and reheat a bowl whenever you need quick comfort

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap heavy cream for half and half or a plant based creamer Cut the richness with a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end If you want to bulk it up try diced potatoes or toss in cooked sausage for more heartiness

Serving Suggestions

A side of crusty bread is really all you need Sometimes I serve it with grilled sausage or roasted chicken for bigger appetites A tangy salad with bright vinaigrette on the side lifts and balances the richness

Cultural Context

Cabbage soup like this is a staple in many Eastern European and Midwestern homes It is a practical dish from times when gardens and cellars provided most meals and not a leaf or carrot went to waste Every bowl tastes like tradition and care

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly flavor while retaining delicious depth in the soup.

→ Is it possible to substitute the heavy cream?

Absolutely. Half-and-half or a non-dairy creamer works well for a lighter version, though it may be less rich.

→ What sides pair well with creamy cabbage soup?

Crusty bread, homemade biscuits, simple salads, or even roasted chicken make wonderful accompaniments.

→ How can I add extra heartiness?

Stir in diced potatoes or cooked, crumbled sausage for a more filling soup with additional flavors and texture.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze portions. Just be aware the cream may separate upon reheating.

→ What can I do to add more flavor?

Try a splash of apple cider vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes towards the end for added tang and warmth.

Slow Cooker Creamy Cabbage Soup

Warm up with creamy cabbage soup cooked low and slow, brimming with vegetables and cozy farmhouse flavors.

Preparation Time
20 mins
Cook Time
240 mins
Total Time
260 mins

Category: Healthy Eating

Difficulty Level: Easy

Cuisine Type: American Midwest

Yield: 8 Servings

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

What You'll Need

→ Vegetables

01 1 medium head cabbage, chopped
02 1 large onion, diced
03 2 large carrots, sliced
04 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Liquids

05 950 ml chicken broth or vegetable broth
06 480 ml water
07 240 ml heavy cream

→ Fats & Dairy

08 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter

→ Seasonings and Herbs

09 1 teaspoon salt
10 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
11 1 teaspoon dried thyme
12 1 teaspoon dried parsley
13 0.5 teaspoon paprika
14 1 bay leaf

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Combine chopped cabbage, diced onion, sliced carrots, and minced garlic in the slow cooker.

Step 02

Pour chicken or vegetable broth and water over the vegetables. Stir to distribute evenly.

Step 03

Add bay leaf, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried parsley, and paprika to the slow cooker. Stir thoroughly.

Step 04

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until vegetables are tender.

Step 05

Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the heavy cream and butter until smooth and heated through. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

Additional Notes

  1. A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end imparts a refreshing tang. For extra warmth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  2. To increase heartiness, incorporate diced potatoes or cooked, crumbled sausage with the vegetables. Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based creamer for a lighter alternative.

Tools You'll Need

  • Slow cooker
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Allergy Information

Check every ingredient for potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional for concerns.
  • Contains milk and dairy (heavy cream, butter)

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and don’t replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 185
  • Fats: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Proteins: 4 g