Healthy Crockpot Cabbage Vegetable Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Cabbage Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 ribs of celery, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Ideas

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Cabbage Vegetable Soup whenever I want a hearty yet nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part is that I can throw all the ingredients into the crockpot in the morning, and by dinner, a delicious aroma fills my home. This soup is loaded with fresh vegetables, making it not only flavorful but also a fantastic way to boost my daily veggie intake. Each bowl is comforting, warming, and guilt-free—a perfect companion for chilly evenings!

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:43:35.206Z

When I first tried making this cabbage soup in my crockpot, I was amazed at how simple it was. The trick lies in letting the vegetables truly meld together over a long cook time. This not only enriches the flavor but also allows the broth to become deliciously satisfying without needing any added fats or preservatives.

One of my favorite experiments was adding a splash of vinegar towards the end of cooking. It brightens the flavor, adding a zesty kick that contrasts perfectly with the cabbage and other veggies. I highly recommend trying it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with vibrant vegetables that boost your health
Convenient, hands-off cooking in a crockpot
A delicious way to warm up on cold days

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Healthy Crockpot Cabbage Vegetable Soup plays a vital role in both flavor and nutrition. The green cabbage, high in fiber, adds bulk to the soup while providing a sweet, mild taste as it cooks down. Carrots contribute natural sweetness and vibrant color, ensuring that every bowl looks as good as it tastes. Celery adds an aromatic depth, while the bell pepper brings a slight crunch and a fresh, peppery essence that balances the other vegetables.

The garlic in this recipe not only infuses the soup with a rich, savory flavor but also packs a punch of health benefits. Garlic has been shown to boost the immune system and is known for its antibacterial properties. Using fresh cloves will enhance the robustness of the soup. If you're short on time, feel free to use pre-minced garlic or garlic powder as a quick substitute, though fresh will always yield the best taste.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

Cooking this soup in a crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time. When choosing the cooking time, remember that longer cooking yields a richer taste—option for low heat for 8 hours for the best flavor development. If you're short on time, cooking on high for 4 hours works well too, but keep in mind that vegetables may have a firmer texture. You’ll know it’s ready when the vegetables are tender yet still hold their shape.

To enhance the final dish, take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning just before serving. Adding a touch more salt can really elevate the dish, and fresh herbs like parsley or basil sprinkled on top just before serving can enhance freshness. For a heartier version, consider adding a can of beans or lentils for protein; they pair wonderfully with the vegetables and make the soup even more filling.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients to create your flavorful soup:

Vegetables

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

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have available!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious soup perfect for any day:

Prepare the Vegetables

Chop all the vegetables as indicated above and place them in the crockpot.

Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the vegetable broth, add the diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Cook the Soup

Set your crockpot to low and cook for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The longer, the better for rich flavors!

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with your favorite bread.

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Pro Tips

For extra protein, consider adding some beans or lentils, which will also add more fiber to the soup!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is perfect for meal prep; it holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to 5 days. Simply store it in an airtight container, and when you're ready to eat, reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If you’d like to freeze it, let the soup cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months—just make sure to leave some space in the container as soup expands when frozen.

When reheating frozen soup, it's best to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it on the stove. If you're in a pinch, you can microwave it in a safe container, stirring every few minutes until fully heated. Just remember that the textures of the vegetables will soften after freezing, so it's best enjoyed fresh if possible.

Variations and Customization

Feel free to customize this soup based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For a spicy kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes or some jalapeños while it cooks. You can also substitute any seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or kale, which will add extra nutrients and flavor. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, consider using vegetable broth or stock instead of the broth; homemade stock will take this soup to the next level.

For those looking to add some protein, diced chicken or turkey can be added during the last hour of cooking. Alternatively, for a vegan option, stirring in a cup of cooked quinoa or chickpeas during the last half hour will boost the nutritional profile without sacrificing taste. Each of these variations gives you the flexibility to adapt the recipe to your tastes and dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can substitute frozen vegetables for fresh ones. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

→ Can I add meat to this soup?

Absolutely! You can add shredded chicken or ground turkey before cooking for a heartier option.

→ Is this soup vegan-friendly?

Yes, this soup is completely vegan as it does not contain any animal products.