Introduction

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of soup. This Southern-Style Creamy Cabbage Soup is a dish that warms both body and soul, wrapping you in a sense of home-cooked comfort with every spoonful.

Cabbage may be a humble ingredient, but when paired with sautéed onions, garlic, a velvety broth, and a splash of heavy cream, it transforms into something rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Add a touch of smoked paprika, and you’ve got a flavor profile that’s both cozy and slightly indulgent.

This is the kind of recipe that feels right at home on a family dinner table or simmering away on the stovetop during a lazy Sunday afternoon. It’s budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and versatile enough to suit many tastes—making it a must-try addition to your family-friendly comfort food recipes collection.

 

Ingredients

• 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 

How To Make Southern-Style Creamy Cabbage Soup

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 more minutes.
2. Cook Cabbage: Add chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir and cook until slightly softened, about 10 minutes.
3. Simmer: Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
4. Blend & Finish: Use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup, depending on your desired texture. Stir in heavy cream and smoked paprika. Simmer gently until warmed through. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting & hearty: Perfect for cold nights or when you’re craving something soothing.
• Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Versatile: Great as a main course or served alongside sandwiches or salads.
• Family-approved: Mild enough for kids, yet flavorful enough for adults.

 

Tips for Success

• Don’t rush the onions—they add depth when fully softened.
• Use a mix of chicken and vegetable broth for extra richness.
• Blend only half the soup if you want a creamy yet chunky texture.
• For a lighter option, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk.

 

Variations

• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a kick.
• Meaty option: Stir in cooked sausage, ham, or bacon.
• Low-carb twist: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Cheesy upgrade: Top with shredded cheddar or Parmesan before serving.

 

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

2. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but freeze before adding the cream. Stir in the cream after reheating.

3. What’s the best way to thicken the soup?
Let it simmer uncovered longer or add a cornstarch slurry.

4. Can I use red cabbage?
It works, but the color and flavor will be different—slightly sweeter.

5. How long does it keep in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

6. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes—add everything except the cream, cook on low 6–8 hours, then stir in cream before serving.

7. Can I add potatoes?
Absolutely—diced potatoes make it even heartier.

8. Can I skip the smoked paprika?
Yes, but it adds a nice smoky depth. Try regular paprika if preferred.

9. Is this gluten-free?
Yes, as written it’s naturally gluten-free.

10. What can I serve it with?
Crusty bread, cornbread, or grilled cheese sandwiches pair beautifully.

 

Health Benefits

• Cabbage is packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Garlic and onions support heart health and immunity.
• Cream adds richness but can be swapped for lighter dairy or plant-based options.
  This soup is proof that comfort food can also provide nourishment.

How to Serve

• With warm cornbread for a true Southern touch.
• As a starter before a hearty main dish.
• In a bread bowl for a rustic presentation.

 

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: Cook the soup (without cream) up to 2 days in advance. Reheat and stir in cream before serving.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze without cream for up to 2 months. Add cream when reheating.

 

Conclusion

This Southern-Style Creamy Cabbage Soup is more than just a bowl of comfort—it’s a reminder that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. Whether you’re serving it for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy gatherings, this soup delivers warmth, flavor, and that down-home Southern charm in every bite.