This Creamy Cabbage and Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that blends tender cabbage, starchy potatoes, and aromatic vegetables in a luscious, velvety broth.
Its appeal lies in its versatility—perfect as a warming solo meal or a base for creative add-ins like smoked meats or plant-based alternatives.
Nutritionally, the soup offers a rich source of fiber from cabbage and potatoes, plant-based protein if made vegetarian, and healthy fats when using minimal butter or cream alternatives.
The addition of dill and pickle brine adds a bright, tangy layer that elevates the overall flavor without relying on heavy sodium-laden seasonings.
Quick to prepare and simple to customize, it’s an ideal option for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or cozy weekend cooking.
The combination of nutrient-dense vegetables and satisfying creaminess makes this soup both nourishing and soul-soothing, providing balanced energy without excess calories
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot
Essential for evenly cooking the soup base without scorching. Its sturdy design is ideal for soups, stews, and simmering vegetables to perfection.
Chef’s Knife
A sharp, high-quality knife makes chopping cabbage, carrots, and potatoes fast and precise, saving time while maintaining clean cuts for even cooking.
Cutting Board
Provides a safe, stable surface for all chopping and slicing tasks. Opt for a durable, non-slip board that protects counters and keeps prep efficient.
Wooden Spoon
Perfect for stirring thickening agents like beurre manié or cornstarch slurry without scratching your pot, while providing gentle control over delicate vegetables.
Measuring Cups & Spoons
Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor balance, particularly for broth, seasonings, and cream, guaranteeing perfect results every time.
Quick Creamy Cabbage Soup
Equipment
- 1 large heavy-bottomed pot
- 1 Chef’s Knife
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon chopped
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 medium carrots chopped
- ½ tsp dried thyme or 3 fresh sprigs
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ Tbsp sugar
- 2 cups diced red or white potatoes about 2 large
- 4 cups chopped green cabbage about ½ head
- 6 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian
- ¼ cup dill pickle brine divided
- 2 Tbsp beurre manié or cornstarch for slurry
- ¾ cup cream or evaporated milk or plant-based alternative
- ½ cup fresh dill or parsley chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: In a large heavy-bottomed pot, add the chopped bacon and cook over medium heat until it turns golden brown and crisp, releasing flavorful fat. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Keep about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot to add depth and richness to the soup base.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and carrots to the bacon fat in the pot, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 2-3 minutes, allowing the natural sweetness of the vegetables to develop. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the soup.
- Add Herbs and Sugar: Sprinkle in the thyme, oregano, and sugar, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to release the herbs’ fragrance and enhance the sweetness of the carrots and onions. This small step amplifies the aroma and adds a subtle, balanced layer of flavor.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Stir in the diced potatoes and chopped cabbage, ensuring they are evenly coated with the seasoned fat and herbs. Toss gently so that each piece begins to absorb the aromatic mixture, which helps the vegetables cook evenly and retain their texture.
- Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with half of the dill pickle brine, stirring to combine. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, making sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar. Let the soup simmer for 20–30 minutes, or until the potatoes and cabbage are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and gradually add more pickle brine, salt, or pepper as needed, according to your preference. This step ensures a perfectly balanced, tangy, and flavorful soup.
- Thicken the Soup: Prepare your thickener—either add the beurre manié in small pieces, stirring until fully dissolved, or gradually whisk in a cornstarch slurry. Let the soup cook for 2–3 minutes to achieve a creamy, velvety texture.
- Add Cream and Finish: Remove the pot from heat and slowly stir in the cream or evaporated milk, ensuring it fully incorporates without curdling. Perform a final taste check and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with the reserved crispy bacon and chopped fresh dill or parsley. Serve immediately with your choice of bread, crackers, or a light salad for a warm, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Beurre manié is optional; use cornstarch slurry as a quick alternative for thickening.
- Pickle brine adds a subtle tang; substitute with white wine vinegar if preferred.
- For a vegan or vegetarian version, omit bacon, use vegetable broth, and replace cream with oat or almond milk.
- No need to peel carrots or potatoes—just scrub them well.
- Adjust herbs and seasoning gradually; fresh dill at the end adds brightness.
Chef’s Secrets For Flavor Depth
To achieve a rich, comforting flavor, always sauté the onions and carrots in the bacon fat first; this unlocks natural sweetness and develops depth.
Using a combination of herbs and a small amount of sugar enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Adding pickle brine gradually allows you to control the tang without overpowering the soup.
For extra creaminess, slowly stir in the cream or evaporated milk off the heat to prevent curdling.
Small touches like reserving crispy bacon for garnish elevate both taste and presentation.
Serving Suggestions For Creamy Comfort
This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with crusty bread, focaccia, or cheese biscuits makes for a satisfying meal.
A crisp side salad, such as citrus greens or simple ranch-dressed greens, balances richness.
For a complete meal prep solution, serve in mason jars or airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
The soup also pairs well with light proteins like roasted chicken or smoked salmon, which complement the cabbage’s subtle sweetness.
Storage Tips To Keep Soup Fresh
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickened too much.
The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months—allow it to cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and label with the date.
When thawing, do so overnight in the fridge and stir in cream just before serving for a perfectly creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
1. Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Swap bacon for olive oil or smoked paprika, use vegetable broth, and replace cream with plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version without losing creaminess.
2. Do I have to use pickle brine?
No, you can substitute with a splash of white wine vinegar for tanginess. Start small and adjust to taste so it complements the soup without overpowering it.
3. Can I use regular milk instead of cream?
Yes, regular milk works but the soup won’t be as thick or rich. Add milk slowly off the heat to avoid curdling.
4. Can this soup be meal prepped?
Definitely! Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Add cream just before serving to maintain freshness.
5. Can I add extra vegetables or meat?
Yes! Leftover cooked meats, such as chicken or ham, can be stirred in. Extra vegetables like bell peppers or celery add more nutrients and texture.
This recipe has been adapted and simplified from the original version by gettystewart. We’ve refined the steps for a smoother cooking experience and added helpful notes, nutrition insights, and essential kitchen tools to make it even easier for home cooks.
