Cabbage soup protein has been my secret weapon for busy weeknights and feeling incredibly satisfied. I remember the first time I made a truly protein-packed version of this classic soup; the aroma of simmering vegetables and savory broth filled my kitchen, and I knew it was a winner. It’s not just about being filling, though – this high protein cabbage soup is bursting with flavor, from the tender vegetables to the hearty additions that make it a complete meal. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up a large batch, and the leftovers are just as delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Incredible Cabbage Soup Protein
This soup is a game-changer for so many reasons! It’s more than just a meal; it’s a satisfying experience that nourishes your body. Here’s why you’ll be making this incredible cabbage soup protein again and again:
- Hearty & Filling: The generous protein content keeps you satisfied for hours, curbing those pesky cravings.
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the cabbage and other veggies.
- Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy schedules with minimal prep and cook time.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients that are easy to find.
- Customizable: Easily adapt it to your dietary needs and taste preferences.
- A Genuine Cabbage Soup Protein Boost: It delivers a substantial protein punch without feeling heavy.
- Supports Wellness Goals: An excellent choice for those seeking healthy meals, offering a significant Cabbage Soup Protein Boost.
Ingredients for Your Protein-Rich Cabbage Soup
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this amazing Cabbage soup with added protein. This recipe focuses on maximizing flavor and nutrition with simple, accessible items.
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped – This is the star, providing bulk and fiber.
- 1 large onion, diced – Adds a sweet aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that essential savory depth.
- 2 medium carrots, sliced – Brings a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 3 stalks celery, chopped – Adds a fresh, slightly peppery note.
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth – The liquid foundation for our soup; choose your favorite.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes – For a touch of acidity and body.
- 1 cup cooked chicken or turkey, shredded (or 1 can of beans for a vegetarian option) – This is where we pack in the protein, making it a truly high protein cabbage soup.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – To help sauté our aromatics and vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Earthy and aromatic.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Classic soup herb that complements the vegetables.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
How to Make Incredible Cabbage Soup Protein
Let’s dive into creating this delicious and satisfying soup. It’s surprisingly simple, and the aroma as it simmers is just divine!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grab a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in your pot. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The kitchen will start to smell wonderful!
- Step 3: Toss in the sliced carrots and chopped celery. Cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they just begin to soften and release their sweet aroma.
- Step 4: Add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir it in with the other vegetables and let it cook for another 5 minutes. You’ll notice it wilting and softening beautifully. This is a key step in how to make protein-rich cabbage soup.
- Step 5: Pour in the 6 cups of broth. Add the can of diced tomatoes, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil.
- Step 6: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Step 7: Now it’s time to add the protein! Stir in the 1 cup of cooked chicken or turkey (or your chosen beans for a vegetarian meal). Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to ensure everything is heated through. This step ensures you’re making a truly high protein cabbage soup.
- Step 8: Give your soup a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You want it just right!
- Step 9: Ladle the hot, incredible cabbage soup protein into bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings like fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy this satisfying way on how to make protein-rich cabbage soup.

Pro Tips for the Best High Protein Cabbage Soup
Want to elevate your soup from good to absolutely amazing? These little tricks have made all the difference for me, ensuring every spoonful is packed with flavor and goodness.
- Don’t skimp on the aromatics! Sautéing the onion and garlic until fragrant builds a deep flavor base.
- For maximum flavor, use a good quality broth. Homemade is always best, but a flavorful store-bought one works wonders.
- Taste and season as you go! This is crucial for balancing the flavors of the vegetables and protein.
- Consider adding a bay leaf while simmering for an extra layer of complexity.
What’s the secret to perfect Incredible Cabbage Soup Protein?
The real secret lies in building layers of flavor from the start with well-sautéed aromatics and a robust broth. This, combined with the right amount of protein, ensures a satisfying and nutritious cabbage soup protein content.
Can I make High Protein Cabbage Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup is a meal-prepper’s dream. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually meld and improve overnight!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cabbage Soup Protein?
A common pitfall is overcrowding the pot, which steams instead of sautés vegetables. Also, be sure to season throughout the cooking process, not just at the end, to ensure even flavor distribution.
Best Ways to Serve Lean Protein Cabbage Soup
This hearty soup is fantastic on its own, but I love pairing it with a few simple additions to make it a complete meal. It truly shines with these savory cabbage soup protein options.
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or a slice of whole-grain toast is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth. It adds a lovely texture contrast.
- Simple Green Salad: For a lighter meal, serve a generous bowl of this lean protein cabbage soup alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. It balances the richness.
- A Dollop of Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: A spoonful of plain Greek yogurt or a bit of sour cream adds a creamy, tangy finish that complements the savory notes beautifully.
Nutrition Facts for Incredible Cabbage Soup Protein
This high protein cabbage soup is a fantastic choice for a healthy meal, offering a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of broth and protein source.
How to Store and Reheat Your Protein Cabbage Soup
Proper storage is key to enjoying this delicious soup for days to come, making it an excellent component of your weight loss cabbage soup protein plan. Once cooked, let the soup cool down to room temperature for about an hour before storing. This prevents condensation buildup inside your storage containers.
For refrigeration, use airtight containers and store the soup for up to 3-4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen! If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion. Properly stored, your protein cabbage soup can last in the freezer for about 3 months.
Reheating is simple. For refrigerated soup, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions. For frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the stovetop method. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the best quality and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage Soup Protein
What is incredible cabbage soup protein?
Incredible cabbage soup protein refers to a version of the classic cabbage soup that has been specifically enhanced to provide a substantial amount of protein. This often involves adding lean meats like chicken or turkey, or plant-based proteins such as beans or lentils, alongside the nutrient-rich cabbage and other vegetables. It’s designed to be a filling, satisfying meal that supports your nutritional goals.
Why is cabbage soup good for protein?
Cabbage soup itself is naturally low in protein, but it serves as an excellent base for adding protein. The vegetables provide fiber and essential nutrients, making it a healthy foundation. When you incorporate ingredients like lean chicken, turkey, beans, or even tofu, you transform it into a dish that offers significant protein, making it a more complete and satisfying meal. This makes it great for those looking for nutritious options.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! To make this a vegetarian protein in cabbage soup, simply swap the chicken or turkey for a can of rinsed and drained beans, such as kidney beans, cannellini beans, or chickpeas. For a fully vegan cabbage soup high protein option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and opt for beans or lentils. You might also consider adding some nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor boost.
How do I increase the protein content even further?
If you want to maximize the protein, consider adding a bit more cooked chicken or beans than the recipe calls for. You could also stir in some cooked quinoa or lentils during the last 10 minutes of simmering. Some people even add a scoop of unflavored protein powder right at the end, though this can slightly alter the texture. These additions help create an even more robust and filling meal.
Variations of Incredible Cabbage Soup Protein You Can Try
This incredible cabbage soup protein is wonderfully adaptable! Whether you have specific dietary needs or just want to switch things up, there are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy it. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Vegetarian Delight: For a hearty vegetarian protein in cabbage soup, simply swap the chicken or turkey for one can of rinsed and drained beans. Kidney beans, cannellini beans, or chickpeas all work beautifully and add a satisfying texture and protein boost.
- Fully Vegan Option: To create a truly vegan cabbage soup high protein version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and opt for beans or lentils as your protein source. A little sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a wonderful cheesy, umami flavor without any dairy.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when you sauté the onions and garlic. This adds a warming spice that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
- Creamy Comfort: For a richer soup, stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk at the very end, just before serving. This adds a lovely creaminess and extra layer of flavor.

Incredible Cabbage Soup Protein: 1 Savory Meal
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This incredible cabbage soup recipe is packed with protein, making it a hearty and nutritious meal. It’s simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and easily customizable for any diet.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked chicken or turkey, shredded (or 1 can of beans for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a squeeze of lemon
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Chop the cabbage, dice the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and chop the celery.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
- Cook Carrots and Celery: Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery to the pot. Cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for another 5 minutes until it begins to soften.
- Combine Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the broth, add the diced tomatoes, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Protein: Stir in the cooked chicken or turkey (or beans). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve Hot: Serve the soup hot, garnished with optional toppings.
Notes
- For an enhanced flavor profile, opt for fresh vegetables and freshly chopped herbs.
- Adjust seasoning gradually, tasting frequently.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for spice.
- Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can add a bright flavor when added at the end.
- Top with avocado slices or Greek yogurt for added creaminess and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A