Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup: A Quick, Hearty Meal

When it comes to quick, easy, and delicious meals, the Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is a standout. Packed with savory kielbasa, tender potatoes, and earthy cabbage, this dish is a comforting, filling soup that’s perfect for any day of the week. The Instant Pot makes this recipe a breeze, reducing cooking time without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal for a busy weekday or a comforting bowl to enjoy on a chilly evening, this soup has it all.

Why You Should Try Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

1. Quick and Convenient

One of the biggest advantages of using an Instant Pot is the significant time savings. Unlike traditional methods that can take hours of simmering, this soup comes together in just 20 minutes of pressure cooking, making it ideal for busy nights or last-minute meals.

2. Full of Flavor

The combination of kielbasa, cabbage, and potatoes is classic and delicious, but the secret to its bold flavor lies in the use of aromatic vegetables like onions, garlic, and celery, along with the depth of flavor provided by chicken broth and herbs like thyme and bay leaves.

3. Nutritious and Filling

This soup is not only tasty but also full of nutritious ingredients. Kielbasa provides protein, cabbage and carrots offer fiber and vitamins, while potatoes add heartiness to the dish. The result is a balanced, satisfying meal that keeps you full for hours.

4. Customizable

While this recipe is fantastic as is, you can easily make adjustments based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. Add extra vegetables like green beans or parsnips, switch out the kielbasa for a different type of sausage, or use a low-sodium broth for a healthier version.

Key Ingredients for Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ¼ lb kielbasa, cut into 1” pieces: The star ingredient of this soup, kielbasa brings a smoky, savory flavor that infuses the broth and complements the vegetables.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the kielbasa and vegetables, adding richness to the soup’s base.
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses the soup with its signature aroma and savory taste.
• 2 carrots, chopped into ½” rounds: Carrots bring a natural sweetness and texture to the soup.
• 1 ½ cups celery, chopped into ½” pieces: Adds a refreshing crunch and mild flavor.
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a rich, savory base for the soup. Low-sodium broth allows for better control over the salt content.
• 1 large bay leaf: Bay leaves enhance the flavor with their subtle herbal notes.
• ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning: This herb blend adds warmth and complexity.
• ½ teaspoon thyme: Thyme is the perfect complement to the earthy flavors of cabbage and potatoes.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or ½ teaspoon table salt): Season the soup to taste.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
• 1 lb red potatoes, cut into 2 ½” pieces: Potatoes are hearty and absorb the flavors of the broth.
• 1 small head green cabbage (about 1 ½ lbs), cut into 2-3” pieces: Cabbage softens beautifully in the Instant Pot and adds a wonderful texture to the soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

With your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious soup in the Instant Pot. The entire process takes less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.

Step 1: Sauté the Kielbasa

Turn your Instant Pot to the Sauté setting. Once the display reads “Hot,” add the kielbasa and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. This helps release the savory flavors of the sausage and infuse them into the soup. Once browned, remove the kielbasa and set it aside, discarding any excess fat left in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add olive oil to the Instant Pot. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Then add the garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for an additional 30 seconds to release their flavors.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the bay leaf, Italian seasoning, thyme, kosher salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Then, return the browned kielbasa to the pot.

Step 4: Add the Potatoes and Cabbage

Add the potatoes and cabbage to the pot, stirring to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. The cabbage will soften as it cooks, adding a subtle sweetness to the soup.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Place the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the steam release valve is set to Sealing. Cancel the Sauté function and press the Manual or Pressure Cook button. Set the timer for 4 minutes on High Pressure using the +/- buttons. It will take a few minutes for the pot to come to full pressure.

Step 6: Natural Pressure Release

Once the cooking cycle ends, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, manually release any remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to Venting. Be careful to release steam in bursts to avoid splattering soup.

Step 7: Stir and Serve

When the pressure pin drops, carefully remove the lid. Stir the soup well and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with some crusty bread for a complete meal.

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

• Sauté the Kielbasa Well: Don’t rush the browning step. Browning the kielbasa enhances its flavor and gives the soup a deep, rich taste.
• Chop the Vegetables Larger: If you prefer firmer vegetables, chop your potatoes and cabbage into larger pieces. This ensures they maintain their texture even after pressure cooking.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth: To control the sodium content in the soup, opt for low-sodium chicken broth.
• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, like green beans or leeks, to personalize the soup to your taste.

Why This Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion

This Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a hearty and flavorful meal that is quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making dinner on a busy weeknight or preparing a meal to feed a crowd, this soup fits the bill. With its rich, savory broth, tender kielbasa, and nutritious vegetables, it’s a meal that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion.