This Slow Cooker Creamy Cabbage Soup is a hearty, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare. Made with tender cabbage, carrots, and a blend of aromatic herbs, this soup gets its rich and creamy texture from the addition of heavy cream. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave something warm and cozy, this soup is a delicious way to enjoy cabbage in a new way.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Creamy Cabbage Soup
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions for Slow Cooker Creamy Cabbage Soup
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the cabbage, dice the onion, and slice the carrots. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.
2. Add the Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
- In the slow cooker, combine the chopped cabbage, diced onion, sliced carrots, and minced garlic.
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and 2 cups of water.
3. Season the Soup
- Add the 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, ½ teaspoon paprika, and 1 bay leaf to the slow cooker.
4. Cook the Soup
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the cabbage and carrots are tender.
5. Add the Cream and Butter
- Once the soup has finished cooking, remove the bay leaf and stir in the 1 cup heavy cream and 2 tablespoons butter.
- Let the soup cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on low, allowing the cream and butter to melt and blend into the soup.
6. Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Thickening the Soup: For a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially purée some of the soup before adding the cream and butter.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to add additional vegetables like celery, potatoes, or zucchini for more variety.
- Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
Variations for Slow Cooker Creamy Cabbage Soup
1. Creamy Sausage and Cabbage Soup
- Add 1 pound of cooked sausage (Italian or smoked) to the soup for a heartier, more filling meal.
2. Vegan Creamy Cabbage Soup
- Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegan option.
3. Spicy Cabbage Soup
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the soup for a bit of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze this cabbage soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the slow cooker.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
3. Can I make this soup without cream?
Yes, if you prefer a non-creamy version, you can simply skip the addition of heavy cream. The soup will still be delicious with its rich vegetable flavor.
A Comforting and Creamy Soup
This Slow Cooker Creamy Cabbage Soup is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a hearty dish. With tender cabbage, aromatic herbs, and a creamy finish, this soup is both satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal, it’s sure to become a favorite!
