Instant Pot Kielbasa Cabbage and Potato Soup

by

Instant Pot Kielbasa Cabbage and Potato Soup: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Meal

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make soup that’s perfect for cold nights or a comforting family meal, Instant Pot Kielbasa Cabbage and Potato Soup is a must-try! This soup combines tender kielbasa sausage, crisp cabbage, creamy potatoes, and an assortment of savory vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. Made in the Instant Pot, it’s a quick and convenient way to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Kielbasa Cabbage and Potato Soup

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

  • 1 ¼ lb kielbasa sausage, 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
  • 1 ½ cups celery, chopped into ½-inch pieces
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 large bay leaf
  • ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or ½ teaspoon table salt)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lb red potatoes, cut into 2 ½-inch pieces
  • 1 small head green cabbage (about 1½ lbs), cut into 2-3 inch pieces

Instructions for Making Instant Pot Kielbasa Cabbage and Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Kielbasa

  • Turn on the Sauté function on your Instant Pot. Once the display reads “Hot,” add the kielbasa pieces to the pot.
  • Cook the kielbasa, stirring frequently, until it’s lightly browned. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
  • Once browned, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside. Discard any excess fat left in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  • Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the pot. Once heated, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure the onion softens.
  • Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to incorporate those flavors into the soup. If necessary, add a couple of splashes of the broth to loosen any stubborn bits.
  • Next, add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir well and cook for about 30 seconds to release their aroma.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

  • Add the 6 cups chicken broth, bay leaf, Italian seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
  • Add the browned kielbasa back into the pot, stirring to distribute evenly.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Cabbage

  • Now it’s time to add the potatoes and cabbage. Stir everything together until the vegetables are well mixed and evenly distributed.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

  • Place the lid on the Instant Pot and set the Steam Release knob to Sealing.
  • Cancel the Sauté function, then press the Manual or Pressure Cook button. Set the cooking time to 4 minutes on high pressure using the +/- buttons.
  • Note: It will take several minutes for the Instant Pot to come to full pressure before the cooking time begins.

Step 6: Natural Pressure Release

  • Once the cooking cycle ends, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes. This helps the soup continue cooking in its own heat and adds more depth to the flavors.
  • After 15 minutes, manually release the remaining pressure by turning the Steam Release knob to Venting (or pressing the button on the Ultra). It’s best to do this in short bursts to avoid any soup splattering out with the steam.

Step 7: Final Adjustments and Serve

  • When the pin drops, carefully open the lid and stir the soup gently to combine.
  • Taste the soup and adjust the salt if necessary.
  • Serve hot, and for an extra touch, pair this delicious soup with some crusty bread for dipping.

Tips for Success

  • Chopping the Kielbasa and Vegetables: For best results, chop the kielbasa and vegetables into larger pieces so they hold up well during the pressure cooking process. This will help ensure that everything retains its texture and does not become too mushy.
  • Customization: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste. You can add more thyme, bay leaves, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
  • Leftovers: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors only improve as it sits. It can also be frozen for future meals, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Nutritional Information

If you’re keeping track of calories, here’s the approximate nutritional info per serving:

  • Calories: 93
  • Total Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 1mg
  • Sodium: 290mg
  • Protein: 5g

This hearty soup is not only low in calories, but also packed with protein, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Kielbasa Cabbage and Potato Soup

  • Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot cuts down cooking time significantly, allowing you to make this comforting meal in just under 30 minutes.
  • Flavorful and Hearty: With kielbasa sausage, cabbage, potatoes, and a blend of spices, every bite of this soup is full of flavor and texture.
  • Versatile: You can customize this soup by adding other vegetables like green beans or peas, or switch up the seasoning to suit your preferences.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well for leftovers, making it great for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Kielbasa Cabbage and Potato Soup is an easy, filling, and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of sausage, vegetables, and a rich broth—all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or serving it to guests, this soup is sure to be a hit. The Instant Pot makes it incredibly convenient, and the results speak for themselves with a delicious, hearty, and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort in just minutes!

Leave a Comment