Hearty Sausage, Bacon, and Cabbage Soup: A Comforting Hug in a Bowl

Ah, the Hearty Sausage, Bacon, and Cabbage Soup! If you’re like me, there are days when the chaos of life leaves you yearning for a warm bowl of comfort. This dish is not just food; it’s a soothing balm for the soul—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With rich flavors and simplicity at its heart, this soup is bound to become your new go-to, whether you’re feeding rambunctious kids or impressing dinner guests (bonus points if you serve it with crusty bread!).

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Sausage, Bacon, and Cabbage Soup

Let’s face it: life is busy, and cooking can sometimes feel like a chore. But with this Hearty Sausage, Bacon, and Cabbage Soup, the process is straightforward and rewarding. Imagine a recipe that not only warms your belly but also makes your kitchen smell like a rustic cafe on a rainy day. Spoiler alert: You’re going to want seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound of sausage (your favorite—Italian works great)
4 slices of bacon
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 carrots, sliced
4 cloves of garlic, minced
6 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika (because who doesn’t love a smoky flavor?)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick!

Let’s Get Cooking: Step by Step

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe!

Start with the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Ah, the smell of bacon sizzling should draw anyone from near or far! Once crisp, remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Don’t even think about tossing that bacon grease—it’s going to add flavor to our soup!
Sauté Your Veggies: In the same pot, with that glorious bacon grease, add the diced onions, sliced carrots, and minced garlic; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Just wait; it only gets better from here!
Add the Sausage: Crumble the sausage into the pot (the sounds of sizzling will make you rejoice) and cook until browned. This should take about 5 minutes.
In Goes the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage. It may seem like a mountain at first, but don’t worry—it wilts down. Stir it through until it starts to soften.
Pour in the Broth: Next, add in those 6 cups of chicken broth along with thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring your mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes. This is where the magic happens as all those flavors combine!
Add Finishing Touches: Once your soup has simmered, crumble the crispy bacon on top (who can resist bacon?). And for those who like it spicy, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve Hot: Ladle out the soup into bowls and serve it warm. Pair it with your favorite crusty bread, and you have yourself a feast!

Cooking Tips for Your Hearty Soup Adventure

Don’t Skip on the Bacon Grease: It may sound indulgent, but that little bit of fat makes a big difference. If you’re thinking about using olive oil instead, I’d recommend reconsidering for this recipe!
Leftovers? Yes, Please!: This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge. It’s like an extra hug from your kitchen on busy days. Simply store it in an airtight container and reheat.
Bored of Cabbage? If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping in kale or spinach for a new twist on this classic recipe.

Personal Touch

I remember the first time I made this Hearty Sausage, Bacon, and Cabbage Soup. My sister Patricia and I were huddled in the kitchen, creating the cozy atmosphere I cherish so much. It became our family favorite in no time! Just watching my kids take their first spoonfuls was priceless. They practically licked their bowls clean!

FAQs About Hearty Sausage, Bacon, and Cabbage Soup

Can I substitute any ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option, and use vegetable broth if you want to keep it vegetarian (just skip the bacon).

How do I store leftovers?
Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you have more left, freeze it for up to 3 months, but make sure to leave out the potatoes if you add them; they don’t freeze well.

Enjoy Your Hearty Creation!

Now that you’ve mastered this Hearty Sausage, Bacon, and Cabbage Soup, you’ve not just made dinner—you’ve crafted a comforting experience that warms both body and spirit. With every spoonful, enjoy the flavors, the warmth, and the memories you’re making. So, the next time you need a quick meal solution or simply a delicious way to unwind, this soup is your answer. Cheers to comfort in a bowl!

Looking for more comforting ideas? Check out my other soup recipes or learn how to create the ultimate weeknight dinners that your family will love.

Meta Description: Hearty Sausage, Bacon, and Cabbage Soup is the perfect recipe for a quick, easy, and delicious meal. This dish will become your go-to dinner!