Name: Hearty Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 small onion, chopped; 3 medium carrots, thinly sliced (1 ½ cups); 4 stalks celery, sliced (1 ½ cups); 6 oz. fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch cubes; 4-5 cups green cabbage, sliced 1/4-inch wide; 4-6 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 14.5 oz. can fire roasted diced tomatoes with juices; 1 15.5 oz. can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 15 oz. can tomato sauce; 8 cups low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth); A splash of lemon juice; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil; 1 1/2 teaspoons dried parsley; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 bay leaf

There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially one that feels like a big hug in a bowl. My Hearty Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe is exactly that—it’s packed with fresh veggies, rich tomato broth, and classic Italian herbs that come together into a soup you’ll want to make again and again.

A white bowl filled with a thick vegetable soup, showing three main layers: a bright reddish-orange broth base mixed with herbs, a middle layer of orange carrot slices, green celery pieces, and light yellow potato chunks, and a top layer with dark red kidney beans and bits of chopped cabbage sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with part of a striped cloth visible at the bottom edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Hearty Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Hearty Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Hearty Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

When I first made this Hearty Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe, I was blown away by how much flavor such simple ingredients could deliver. It’s ideal for chilly days but light enough to enjoy year-round. Plus, it’s so flexible that you can customize it to fit what’s in your fridge.

Loaded with fresh veggies: You get carrots, celery, green beans, potatoes, cabbage, and more all swimming in a vibrant tomato broth.
Hearty yet healthy: Naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients, it’s comfort food without the guilt.
Super versatile: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or add proteins like Italian sausage or beans for extra heft.
Keeps well for leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making meal prep a breeze.

A white bowl filled with a thick vegetable and bean soup is held by a woman's hand. The soup has many layers including bright orange carrot slices, dark red kidney beans, green celery pieces, and chunks of light-colored cabbage, all mixed into a rich, red broth. The top is sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs, adding a fresh look. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, enhancing the vibrant colors of the soup. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient plays a role in this soup’s comforting flavor and nourishing qualities. When you shop, pick fresh and firm vegetables for the best texture, and don’t skip the herbs—they really bring the soup alive.

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl of extra virgin olive oil, one small whole unchopped onion, three medium fresh bright orange carrots thinly sliced, four crisp celery stalks sliced, six peeled garlic cloves, a handful of fresh green beans trimmed and cut into pieces, two medium peeled Yukon gold potatoes cut into cubes, one small white ceramic bowl holding fire roasted diced tomatoes with juices, a small white ceramic bowl with rinsed kidney beans, a small white ceramic bowl of smooth tomato sauce, a small white ceramic bowl filled with low sodium chicken broth, a fresh green bay leaf, fresh vibrant green cabbage leaves sliced thinly, and a small white ceramic bowl with lemon juice, all arranged with perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the aromatics in the base.
Small onion: The sweet foundation that balances savory elements.
Carrots: Sweetness and bright color make the soup inviting.
Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and depth to the broth.
Garlic cloves: Essential for punchy Italian flavor.
Fresh green beans: Give a nice snap and fresh bite.
Yukon gold potatoes: Tender and creamy once cooked, great for heartiness.
Fire roasted diced tomatoes: Bring smoky, rich tomato flavor to the broth.
Kidney beans: Protein-packed and filling, perfect for extra texture.
Tomato sauce: Deepens the tomato base beautifully.
Low sodium chicken broth: You can swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist; it creates the savory soup base.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami magic that’s subtle but important.
Dried basil, parsley, oregano, thyme: Classic Italian herbs that lift every spoonful.
Salt, sugar, pepper: To balance and enhance all the flavors.
Bay leaf: Slowly infuses the broth with a delicate earthiness.
Green cabbage: The star vegetable that softens perfectly without losing body.
Lemon juice: A splash at the end brightens and freshens the whole bowl.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love that this Hearty Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe invites you to make it just how you like. Whether you’re in the mood for a vegetarian meal, or you want to add a meaty kick, go for it! It’s your soup, your rules.

Variation: My go-to twist is adding Italian sausage or diced ham for a cozy, meaty version that’s just as easy.
Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth and throw in extra beans or lentils for protein to keep it hearty.
Seasonal tweaks: Swap green beans for zucchini in summer or throw in some kale for extra greens in colder months.
Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce turns this into a bold, warming meal.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Hearty Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Flavor Base

First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions, sliced carrots, and celery and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the onions turn translucent and soft. Stir often so nothing sticks or browns. Then add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds—you want that garlic fragrant but not burnt, or it’ll turn bitter.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Next, add the potatoes, green beans, fire roasted tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans, tomato sauce, broth, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, and spices to your pot. Give everything a good stir, pop in the bay leaf, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This is when all those flavors start marrying beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Finish

Finally, stir in the sliced cabbage and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer gently for just a few more minutes until the cabbage wilts but still holds a little bite. Right before serving, stir in a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, or add a pinch of red pepper if you like it spicier. Feel free to add a bit more broth if you want it less chunky. And that’s it!

Top Tip

After making this soup a dozen times, I’ve learned a few simple tips that really help it shine and make cooking easier—especially if you’re juggling busy days.

Don’t overcook the garlic: Adding garlic last-minute keeps it fresh and bright instead of bitter.
Potatoes matter: Yukon golds hold their shape well and give a lovely creamy texture once tender.
Simmer uncovered: This concentrates those Italian spices and thickens the broth just right.
Fresh lemon juice: Adding it at the end wakes up all the flavors—you don’t want to miss this step!

How to Serve Hearty Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe

Italian cabbage soup - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of topping this soup with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese—hot soup melts it in delightfully. A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes, I drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil for that silky finish.

Side Dishes

Crisp garlic bread or a slice of rustic Italian bread goes perfectly alongside. If I want something lighter, a simple green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette balances the meal. This combination always makes everyone happy at the table.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this soup in mini bread bowls—kids and adults alike love that cozy touch. You can also ladle it over cooked polenta or serve alongside polenta cakes for a comforting twist that feels extra special. It makes for a memorable hearty meal every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 4 days. I like to portion it out for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week—just heat it up and you’re good to go.

Freezing

This Hearty Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully. I usually freeze it in meal-sized containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.

Reheating

Reheat on medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup feels too thick after storage. Stir often to keep the veggies tender but not mushy. A quick squeeze of lemon juice after reheating always freshens it up nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Just swap the chicken broth for a good quality vegetable broth and omit any meat additions. The kidney beans add plenty of protein and texture.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth if needed.

Can I add pasta or grains to this soup?

Yes! Adding cooked pasta, barley, or rice right before serving works great. If you add uncooked grains to the soup during simmering, adjust liquid accordingly and cook until tender.

How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy?

Add the cabbage near the end of cooking and simmer just until it wilts, usually 3-5 minutes. Overcooking cabbage leads to a mushy texture, so keep an eye on it.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Italian Cabbage Soup Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen rotation because it’s the perfect balance of nourishing, flavorful, and flexible. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and that it becomes a go-to comforting meal for you and yours. Once you try it, I bet it’ll become one of your favorite soups too—warm, hearty, and simply delicious.