Healthy Crockpot Cabbage Vegetable Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Cabbage Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium cabbage, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 stalks celery, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Planning

I love how easy it is to prepare this Healthy Crockpot Cabbage Vegetable Soup, allowing me to enjoy a delicious meal without much fuss. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients really make the soup shine, and I feel good knowing it's packed with nutrients. Plus, the slow cooking method brings out the flavors beautifully, resulting in a comforting dish perfect for any time of the year. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, it’s a great option for busy days or when I want to nourish myself with something wholesome.

Created by

Fern Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:11:36.109Z

This soup is one of my go-to recipes during the colder months. The initial idea came from wanting to utilize leftover cabbage, but it has turned into a staple in my kitchen. Cooking it in the crockpot allows me to set it and forget it while it simmers and develops a wonderful depth of flavor. I like to throw in whatever vegetables I have on hand, making it a versatile recipe!

I also discovered that adding a splash of apple cider vinegar right before serving enhances the taste significantly, giving it a subtle tang that perfectly balances the sweetness of the vegetables. This little tip has truly elevated the soup!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with wholesome vegetables for a nutrient boost
Effortless preparation with minimal clean-up
Comforting and satisfying, perfect for chilly days

Choosing the Right Cabbage

When preparing this Healthy Crockpot Cabbage Vegetable Soup, your choice of cabbage can significantly influence the final flavor and texture. Green cabbage is a go-to, providing a mild taste and crisp texture. However, feel free to experiment with Savoy cabbage for its tender leaves or Napa cabbage for a sweeter profile. Just ensure whichever variety you choose is fresh; look for tightly packed leaves and a firm core to guarantee the best quality.

Another tip is to chop the cabbage into uniform pieces, about one to two inches in size, to ensure even cooking throughout the soup. This way, you'll avoid any undercooked or mushy bits when you serve your dish. If you prefer a softer texture, you can also sauté the cabbage in a pan for a few minutes prior to adding it to the crockpot, which will enhance its flavor.

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning plays a crucial role in elevating the flavors of your soup. While the recipe calls for thyme, feel free to customize it further; adding a bay leaf during cooking can deepen the overall taste. Just remember to remove it before serving. A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle spice if you're looking to add a kick without overwhelming the dish.

Additionally, don't hesitate to adjust salt and pepper levels based on your taste preferences. Since vegetable broth can vary in saltiness, I recommend tasting your soup about 30 minutes before it's done. If it seems a bit bland, a dash more seasoning can make all the difference. Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar right before serving brightens the entire dish, enhancing all those vegetable flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a wholesome soup.

Vegetables

1 medium cabbage, chopped
2 carrots, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Adjust the ingredients to your liking for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a hearty soup.

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop all the vegetables as instructed and set them aside. This initial step makes the rest of the cooking process smoother.

Combine in the Crockpot

Place all the chopped vegetables, canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper into the crockpot. Stir everything well to combine.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the vegetables are tender. The slow cooking helps to meld the flavors beautifully.

Finish and Serve

Just before serving, stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors. Serve hot, and enjoy your healthy soup!

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious soup!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any leftover vegetables or beans you have on hand for extra nutrition and flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the beauties of this soup is that it makes an excellent make-ahead meal. You can chop all your vegetables the night before and store them in the fridge. When you're ready to cook, simply toss everything into the crockpot. If you're short on time, consider batch-prepping the soup by doubling the recipe. Once cooled, it can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months.

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, and then heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. If you find that the soup thickened too much in the refrigerator, just add a bit more vegetable broth or water when reheating to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Cabbage Vegetable Soup is versatile when it comes to serving options. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad. Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before eating can also enhance the dish and make it more visually appealing.

For an even heartier version, feel free to incorporate protein-rich additions. Cooked lentils or chickpeas can be stirred in during the last hour of cooking for a boost of nutrition. If you enjoy grains, serving the soup over quinoa or brown rice can create a satisfying one-bowl meal. Exploring these variations will keep this recipe exciting every time you make it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just cool it completely, then store in airtight containers.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based.

→ Can I make this on the stove instead?

Yes, just simmer on the stovetop for about 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender.