Keto Cabbage & Sausage Soup Recipe

Learn how to make this homemade best keto cabbage & sausage soup—a hearty, low-carb option that's ready in under an hour. This easy baking recipe features Italian sausage and cabbage simmered with aromatic herbs in a rich chicken broth, creating a warming meal perfect for keto dieters.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

35 mins

Serves:

6 bowls

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">500g Italian sausage, casings removed</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 medium head cabbage (about 750g), roughly chopped</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp olive oil</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 medium onion, diced</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">4 garlic cloves, minced</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1.5 litres chicken broth</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">250ml water</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tsp dried oregano</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp dried thyme</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 bay leaf</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Salt and pepper to taste</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional)</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size:

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Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Sharp chef's knife</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Wooden spoon</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small chunks with a wooden spoon. Cook until well-browned, about 5-7 minutes. The browning creates a flavorful foundation for the soup, so take your time with this step. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Add the diced onion to the pot with the browned sausage and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Pour in the chicken broth and water, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These caramelized pieces contain concentrated flavor that will enrich your broth significantly. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Add the chopped cabbage to the pot—don't worry if it seems like too much, as cabbage reduces dramatically during cooking. Stir in the dried oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste, remembering that sausage contains salt, so start conservatively. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still has a slight bite. Cooking the cabbage too long will make it mushy, while too little cooking will leave it tough and fibrous. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Remove the soup from heat and discard the bay leaf. If using, stir in the apple cider vinegar—this small addition brightens the flavors without adding carbs. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. The soup will taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Keto Cabbage & Sausage Soup?

This low-carb soup features Italian sausage, cabbage, onion, garlic, chicken broth, olive oil, dried herbs (oregano, thyme, bay leaf), fresh parsley, and optional apple cider vinegar. All ingredients are keto-friendly, providing flavour without excess carbohydrates.

How to cook Keto Cabbage & Sausage Soup at home?

Learn how to cook Keto Cabbage & Sausage Soup by first browning Italian sausage in a Dutch oven, then sautéing onions and garlic. Add chicken broth, water, chopped cabbage and herbs, then simmer until the cabbage is tender but still has texture. Finish with fresh parsley and optional apple cider vinegar for brightness.

Can I make this keto soup in a slow cooker instead of on the stovetop?

Yes! Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method enhances flavour development and makes the cabbage exceptionally tender.

How long does homemade cabbage and sausage soup keep in the refrigerator?

This hearty soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The flavours actually improve after a day as ingredients meld together. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.

What's the best type of sausage to use for a low-carb cabbage soup?

Italian sausage (either mild or hot) works best as it provides rich flavour without added fillers or sugars. Check labels for hidden carbs. For alternatives, try Polish kielbasa or chorizo for different flavour profiles, but verify carb content to maintain the soup's keto-friendly status.

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