Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes deliver the warmth and satisfaction of a hearty soup. This Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup combines savory kielbasa with tender potatoes and cabbage, all seasoned to perfection with aromatic vegetables and spices. Made in just minutes with an Instant Pot, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or as a filling meal to warm you up on cold days. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that brings traditional, cozy flavors with modern convenience.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

Here’s a list of what you’ll need for this delicious soup:

  • 1¼ lb kielbasa, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
  • 2 carrots, chopped into ½-inch rounds
  • 1½ cups celery, chopped into ½-inch pieces
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 large bay leaf
  • ½ teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or ½ teaspoon table salt)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lb red potatoes, cut into 2½-inch pieces
  • 1 small head of green cabbage (about 1½ lbs), cut into 2-3 inch pieces

Each ingredient brings something special to the soup, creating a hearty, satisfying dish with the perfect blend of savory flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Kielbasa

Turn on the Instant Pot’s Sauté function. When the display reads “Hot,” add the chopped kielbasa and cook until it’s lightly browned, stirring frequently. This step helps render out the fat and adds a nice, smoky flavor. Once browned, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside, discarding any excess fat left in the pot.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the tablespoon of olive oil to the Instant Pot and add the chopped onion. Stir well, using a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (these add flavor to the soup). If necessary, add a splash of broth to loosen any stubborn bits. Once the onion begins to soften, add the garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 30 seconds while stirring to combine.

3. Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. This broth will absorb all the flavors from the kielbasa and vegetables, creating a rich base for the soup.

4. Add Kielbasa, Potatoes, and Cabbage

Return the browned kielbasa to the Instant Pot. Then add the chopped red potatoes and cabbage, stirring to combine. These ingredients will soften and absorb the flavors of the broth as they cook under pressure.

5. Pressure Cook the Soup

Place the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the Steam Release knob is set to Sealing. Cancel the Sauté function and select the Manual (or Pressure Cook) option. Set the time to 4 minutes at high pressure. Keep in mind that it may take several minutes for the Instant Pot to build up enough pressure to begin cooking.

6. Natural Pressure Release

When the cooking cycle ends, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15 minutes. Afterward, turn the knob to Venting to release any remaining pressure. You may want to release the steam in short bursts initially to avoid any soup splattering.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once the pin in the lid drops, open the Instant Pot carefully. Gently stir the soup and taste, adjusting the salt and pepper if needed. Serve the soup hot with a side of crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

Chunky Vegetables for a Heartier Soup

Cutting the vegetables and kielbasa into larger pieces helps retain their texture during pressure cooking. This results in a soup that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Use Low-Sodium Broth for Better Control of Saltiness

Using low-sodium chicken broth gives you control over the final saltiness of the soup. You can adjust the seasoning to taste, ensuring the flavors are balanced.

Substitute Ingredients for Different Flavors

Feel free to substitute the kielbasa with smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a different twist. You can also add extra spices, like smoked paprika or caraway seeds, to enhance the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve your Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad. The smoky, savory flavors of the kielbasa are complemented perfectly by a crusty baguette, which can be used to dip into the soup for an even heartier experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Soup on the Stove Instead of an Instant Pot?

Yes! Follow the same steps in a large pot on the stovetop, but increase the cooking time for the potatoes and cabbage to ensure they are tender. Simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes.

Is This Soup Freezer-Friendly?

Absolutely. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I Use Different Vegetables?

Feel free to add or substitute vegetables to your liking. Bell peppers, green beans, or even tomatoes can add additional flavor and texture to the soup.

This Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is a cozy, filling dish that captures all the best flavors of traditional comfort food with the convenience of modern cooking. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this soup is perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

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