Name: Creamy Cabbage and Bratwurst Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488090H52M42S
Total time: PT-488090H52M42S
Cuisine: German-inspired
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 4 tablespoons butter; 16 oz bratwurst, sliced; 1 cup sweet onion, minced; 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced; 1 medium carrot, peeled and thinly sliced; 1 clove garlic, minced; 4 cups cabbage, chopped; 1 medium Russet potato, diced; 3 cups chicken stock; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 1/2 cups half-and-half cream; 1/4 cup whole milk; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is easy to make yet incredibly satisfying. With just one pot, you can create a meal that’s rich in flavor and full of comforting textures from tender vegetables to succulent sausage pieces. The combination of cabbage, potato, and cream creates a luxurious broth that’s both filling and flavorful. It’s ideal for those who want a homemade soup that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
4 tablespoons butter
16 oz bratwurst, sliced
1 cup sweet onion, minced
2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
4 cups cabbage, chopped
1 medium Russet potato, diced
3 cups chicken stock
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 1/2 cups half-and-half cream
1/4 cup whole milk
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

Directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted.
Add the sliced bratwurst and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add onion, celery, carrot, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the chopped cabbage and diced potato, cooking for an additional 3–4 minutes.
Add the chicken stock, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
In a small bowl, whisk together half-and-half, milk, and flour until smooth. Slowly pour into the soup while stirring to avoid lumps.
Return the browned bratwurst to the pot and simmer for another 5–10 minutes until the soup thickens slightly and the sausage is heated through.
Stir in fresh parsley and chives just before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people. Prep time is about 10 minutes, cooking time is 35–40 minutes, making the total time roughly 45–50 minutes.

Variations

Add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
Substitute half-and-half with heavy cream for a richer soup.
Use kielbasa or Italian sausage instead of bratwurst for a different twist.
Add a splash of white wine to the stock for additional complexity.
Top with shredded cheese or croutons for extra indulgence.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. The soup may thicken when chilled; thin with a little milk or stock if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be prepared a day in advance. Reheat slowly on the stove and stir in fresh herbs just before serving.

Can I use frozen cabbage or vegetables?

Absolutely. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure vegetables are tender.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the half-and-half and milk with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.

Can I freeze this soup?

This soup can be frozen, but the cream may separate slightly upon thawing. Reheat gently and stir well to reincorporate.

Can I add more protein?

Yes, add extra bratwurst, cooked chicken, or even beans to make it heartier.

Conclusion

Creamy Cabbage and Bratwurst Soup is a satisfying and comforting dish that combines the flavors of tender vegetables, rich cream, and savory sausage. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or chilly nights, this soup delivers warmth, flavor, and a touch of indulgence in every bowl.