Instant Pot Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Soup đ â The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl
If thereâs one soup that tastes like it was sent straight from heaven, itâs this Instant Pot Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Soup. Packed with rustic, hearty flavors and an old-fashioned comfort that warms the soul, this soup is the kind of recipe youâll keep coming back toâbowl after bowl. The balance of smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and soft, buttery cabbage in a rich, savory broth makes this dish downright irresistible.
This isnât just a weeknight dinnerâitâs a hug in a bowl, and if you think going back for seconds is impossible, think again. One taste and youâll be hooked for life.
Why Youâll Love This Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Soup
- Quick and easy with the help of the Instant Pot
- One-pot meal with minimal cleanup
- Hearty and filling, perfect for cold days
- Full of old-world flavor with ingredients you already have
- Make-ahead friendly and great for leftovers
This soup is wholesome, rich, and satisfying. Itâs exactly the kind of food you crave when the weather turns chilly or you just need something deeply comforting.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Soup
This recipe comes together with simple, affordable ingredients that deliver BIG flavor.
Youâll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 (12 oz) kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Soup in the Instant Pot
Step 1: Sauté the Kielbasa and Onions
Turn your Instant Pot to SautĂ© mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced kielbasa and brown for 4â5 minutes until it starts to crisp. Remove a few slices to use as garnish later (optional).
Add the diced onion and sautĂ© for another 2â3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Veggies and Broth
Add the chopped cabbage, diced potatoes, chicken broth, and water to the pot. Sprinkle in the thyme, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to High Pressure for 7 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow a 10-minute natural release, then carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Step 4: Stir, Taste, and Serve
Open the lid and give everything a good stir. Adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with reserved kielbasa slices and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Pro Tips for the Best Instant Pot Kielbasa Soup
Use High-Quality Kielbasa
The better the sausage, the better the flavor. Look for smoked Polish kielbasa from your local deli or butcher for the most authentic taste.
Yukon Gold Potatoes Hold Shape Well
If you prefer your potatoes to stay a little firmer, use Yukon Gold. Russets will break down more and make the soup creamier.
Make It Creamy
For an extra luxurious version, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or a splash of sour cream after cooking. This gives the broth a rich, velvety texture.
Add a Kick
If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño with the onions.
Storage and Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. The flavor actually improves the next day!
- Freezing? Yes! Freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Why This Soup Tastes Like Home
This isnât just any soup. Itâs old-school comfort food, reminiscent of Eastern European kitchens where cabbage and potatoes are pantry staples and soups are made with love. The kielbasa brings a smoky depth, the cabbage softens into buttery bites, and the potatoes give it heartiness and body.
Itâs the kind of dish that doesnât just feed youâit nourishes you.
Variations to Try
Add More Vegetables
Throw in carrots, celery, or even leeks for more texture and nutrients.
Try It with Sauerkraut
For a tangy twist, replace half of the cabbage with sauerkraut. It adds brightness and pairs wonderfully with kielbasa.
Make It Vegetarian
Use vegetarian sausage and vegetable broth for a meat-free version thatâs still deeply satisfying.
Spice It Up
Stir in a spoonful of whole grain mustard or horseradish before serving for a punch of flavor.
Perfect Pairings for Your Soup Night
Serve this soup with:
- Crusty rye bread or sourdough
- Buttered biscuits
- Sharp cheddar cheese slices
- A cold pilsner or amber ale
Add a light salad or roasted vegetables, and youâve got a complete comfort meal.
Final Thoughts: This Soup is Soup-er Special
If youâve never had Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Soup, your life is about to change. If you grew up with something like this, you already knowâthis is the stuff of family traditions. Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can have this soul-warming soup on your table in under an hour, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Make it once, and youâll understand why people say:
âI swear this soup was sent straight from heaven!â