Instant Pot Cabbage Soup
There’s something about a warm bowl of Instant Pot Cabbage Soup that makes you feel all cozy inside. Growing up, we often had hearty vegetable soups during the cold winter months, and this recipe takes me right back to those comforting days. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the rich, savory broth create an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen and beckons everyone to the table. Perfect for a chilly evening, this soup is not just nourishing but absolutely delightful. As I prepare this dish, I can’t help but reminisce about family dinners, laughter, and the simple joy of sharing a warm meal. This recipe is not only vegan and gluten-free, but it’s also so simple to make with the Instant Pot, making it an absolute favorite in my household.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
10 mins
5 mins
Medium
150 kcal
5 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
4 g
Cutting Board, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Instant Pot
Why This Instant Pot Cabbage Soup Stands Out
Quick and Easy to Make
One of the standout features of Instant Pot Cabbage Soup is its simplicity. With just a few minutes of preparation and minimal hands-on time, you can have a delicious meal ready for the whole family. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to sit back and relax while it cooks. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutrient-Packed Ingredients
This soup is packed with vibrant vegetables like cabbage, bell peppers, and carrots, making it a powerhouse of nutrients. Each ingredient contributes not just flavor but also an array of vitamins and minerals that will nourish your body. The broth, being vegetable-based, enhances the health benefits while keeping the soup light.
Flavorful and Satisfying
With aromas of garlic and onion sautéed to perfection, every bite of this soup is bursting with flavor. The addition of diced tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano creates a complex taste profile that makes this soup richly satisfying. It’s an excellent way to warm up during the cold seasons.
Customizable
One of the things I love about Instant Pot Cabbage Soup is how easy it is to customize. You can easily swap out or add vegetables based on what you have on hand or what you prefer. This flexibility allows you to make it your own and ensures that it never gets boring!
Perfect for Meal Prep
This soup stores beautifully, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for days. It also freezes well, so you can always have a healthy option on hand for those busy days.
Comfort Food with a Healthy Twist
In a world where comfort food can often mean indulgence, Instant Pot Cabbage Soup strikes the perfect balance. It’s hearty enough to satisfy your cravings while still being healthy. It’s the kind of dish that feels good to eat, both for your taste buds and your body.
What You Need for Instant Pot Cabbage Soup

Creating a delicious Instant Pot Cabbage Soup starts with fresh, wholesome ingredients. The combination of vegetables and spices works harmoniously to create a flavorful broth that warms the soul. The key players in this recipe include cabbage, bell peppers, and vegetable broth, all of which contribute to a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – This healthy fat helps to sautĂ© the vegetables, enhancing their flavors and adding a delicious richness.
- 1 large sweet onion, diced – Adds a sweet and aromatic base to the soup.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Provides a robust flavor and aroma that enhances the overall dish.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste – A key ingredient that adds depth and richness to the broth.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced – Adds sweetness and color to the soup.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced – Complements the red bell pepper and brings additional flavor.
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced into coins – Offers natural sweetness and a pleasant texture.
- 1/2 head cabbage, chopped – The star of the dish, providing bulk and nutrition.
- 2 (14.5 ounces) cans San Marzano diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and moisture, balancing the flavors perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – Introduces an aromatic herb flavor that freshens the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Complements the basil and adds an Italian flair.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the onion flavor throughout the soup.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Intensifies the garlic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Provides a subtle heat to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon pepper or to taste – Adds a touch of warmth and depth.
- 6-8 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth – The liquid base that ties all the ingredients together.
- 3 bay leaves – Infuses a subtle depth of flavor.
- Fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped – For garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color.
Making This Instant Pot Cabbage Soup

When you’re ready to create your Instant Pot Cabbage Soup, the steps are straightforward, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into the detailed process of bringing this dish to life.
- Set the Instant Pot to Saute mode. Once HOT, add olive oil and let it warm. Add the onion and cook for a few minutes until soft, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning. You want the onions to become translucent and fragrant.
- Add in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously to prevent it from browning. The aroma will be intoxicating!
- Next, introduce the diced bell peppers, sliced carrots, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir everything together and cook for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Now, add the rest of the ingredients: chopped cabbage, dried basil, dried oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine, ensuring no ingredients are sticking to the bottom of the pot. Be mindful not to exceed the pot’s maximum fill line.
- Close the lid securely and set the Instant Pot to Manual High Pressure for 5 minutes. It will take about 10 minutes for the pot to reach high pressure. Make sure the vent is closed to trap the steam.
- When the timer goes off, allow for a 10-minute Natural Pressure Release. This means you don’t touch the vent during this time, letting the pressure release naturally.
- After 10 minutes, carefully open the vent to release any remaining steam. Be cautious of the hot steam escaping.
- Open the Instant Pot and remove the bay leaves. Give the soup a gentle stir, ensuring all the ingredients are well mixed.
- Taste the soup and adjust for salt and pepper as needed. If you want a bit more flavor, don’t hesitate to add a touch more seasoning.
- Serve hot, garnished with finely chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Enjoy your delicious and comforting Instant Pot Cabbage Soup!
Things Worth Knowing
- Chopping Technique: Try to chop all the vegetables about the same size so they cook evenly.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always make sure the vegetables are fresh and crisp. This prevents them from becoming too soft or mushy.
- Simmering Time: Don’t let the soup simmer for more than 10 minutes, as the veggies will overcook.
- Seasoning: Always taste and adjust the broth for seasoning to avoid blandness. A little salt can make a big difference!
- Sautéing Matters: Don’t skip the sauté step. This creates the deep, rich flavor that pressure cooking cannot replicate.
Helpful Notes about Instant Pot Cabbage Soup

Cooking is an art, and the more you know, the better your dishes will turn out. Here are some helpful notes for making the best Instant Pot Cabbage Soup possible.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time!
- Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar before serving.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or kale for variety and added nutrition.
- Serving Size: This soup is hearty enough to serve as a main dish or can be paired with a side salad or crusty bread.
How to Serve Instant Pot Cabbage Soup
Serving your Instant Pot Cabbage Soup is where the fun begins! Here are some great ideas:
- Pair with Crusty Bread: This soup is perfect with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad complements the warmth of the soup beautifully.
- Serve as a Light Lunch: It makes for a nourishing and light lunch on its own or alongside a sandwich.
- Garnish: Always garnish with fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added flavor.
- Occasions: This soup is perfect for winter gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night in.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Instant Pot Cabbage Soup is a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition that everyone can appreciate. Its vibrant ingredients come together to create a hearty, satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s not just easy to make, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. With its rich flavors and health benefits, this soup will become a staple in your kitchen!

Instant Pot Cabbage Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set the Instant Pot to Saute mode. Once HOT, add olive oil and let it warm. Add the onion and cook for a few minutes until soft, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning. You want the onions to become translucent and fragrant.
- Add in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously to prevent it from browning. The aroma will be intoxicating!
- Next, introduce the diced bell peppers, sliced carrots, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir everything together and cook for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Now, add the rest of the ingredients: chopped cabbage, dried basil, dried oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine, ensuring no ingredients are sticking to the bottom of the pot. Be mindful not to exceed the pot's maximum fill line.
- Close the lid securely and set the Instant Pot to Manual High Pressure for 5 minutes. It will take about 10 minutes for the pot to reach high pressure. Make sure the vent is closed to trap the steam.
- When the timer goes off, allow for a 10-minute Natural Pressure Release. This means you don’t touch the vent during this time, letting the pressure release naturally.
- After 10 minutes, carefully open the vent to release any remaining steam. Be cautious of the hot steam escaping.
- Open the Instant Pot and remove the bay leaves. Give the soup a gentle stir, ensuring all the ingredients are well mixed.
- Taste the soup and adjust for salt and pepper as needed. If you want a bit more flavor, don’t hesitate to add a touch more seasoning.
- Serve hot, garnished with finely chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Enjoy your delicious and comforting Instant Pot Cabbage Soup!
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time!
- Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar before serving.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or kale for variety and added nutrition.
- Serving Size: This soup is hearty enough to serve as a main dish or can be paired with a side salad or crusty bread.


