There’s something magical about the aroma of a bubbling casserole wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? This Low-Carb Vegetarian Southern Casserole is my latest comfort food obsession, intertwining the heartiness of traditional Southern cuisine with a lighter, veggie-packed twist. Packed with layers of vibrant vegetables and savory spices, this dish is perfect for nutritious weeknight dinners that don’t skimp on flavor. Plus, with the Instant Pot by your side, preparation is a breeze—no fuss, just cozy goodness in less time. What could be better than a hearty meal that strikes the balance between indulgence and health? Curious to see how luscious and satisfying this casserole can be? Let’s dive in!
Why choose this casserole recipe?
Comforting Layers: This Low-Carb Vegetarian Southern Casserole is a flavorful hug in a dish, blending colorful veggies and creamy cheese.
Quick Prep: Thanks to the Instant Pot, your meal is ready in a flash—perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight.
Healthy Twist: Enjoy all the flavors of Southern comfort food without the extra carbs, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Customizable Options: Easily swap in seasonal veggies or different proteins like chickpeas or black beans to suit your tastes.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, for more options, check out our Buffalo Chicken Mac for another delightful twist!
Savory Chicken and Cabbage Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Chicken – Use boneless or bone-in for rich flavor; rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver.
• Cabbage – Acts as the hearty base; green or purple cabbage works beautifully here.
• Carrots – Adds sweetness and color; feel free to substitute with parsnips for a different flavor twist.
• Celery – Provides a subtle crunch; aim for fresh stalks for the best flavor.
For the Broth
• Chicken Broth – Enhances the savory depth of the soup; homemade broth can elevate the taste further.
• Garlic – Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth; crushed or minced garlic works best.
• Onion – A must for flavor; sauté until translucent for a sweeter base note.
• Spices (e.g., bay leaf, thyme, black pepper) – Add depth and character; adjust to your personal spice preference.
Optional Add-ins
• Potatoes – For a heartier texture; cubed red or yellow potatoes will hold their shape well.
• Crushed Red Pepper – For a bit of heat; omit if you prefer a milder soup.
• Fresh Herbs (e.g., parsley, dill) – Sprinkle before serving for a vibrant finish; they add freshness and brightness.
This savory chicken and cabbage soup is a warm embrace captured in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights in as it delivers both comfort and nutrition!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for savory chicken and cabbage soup
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients for the savory chicken and cabbage soup. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, dice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic. For added convenience, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, shredding it into small pieces. This step ensures everything is ready to go as you begin cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Set a large pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once heated, toss in the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This base will deepen the flavors in your savory chicken and cabbage soup, providing a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Next, add the chopped cabbage, diced carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and begin to meld with the aromatics. You want the carrots to maintain some crunch, as they will continue cooking later in the savory soup.
Step 4: Incorporate the Broth
Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over high heat. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low and add your shredded chicken, bay leaf, thyme, and black pepper. Let this simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully while the cabbage softens, resulting in a comforting soup.
Step 5: Adjust Seasonings and Serve
After simmering, taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper, then remove from heat. Ladle the savory chicken and cabbage soup into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color and refreshment. Enjoy the warmth of this comforting dish!
What to Serve with Low-Carb Vegetarian Southern Casserole
There’s nothing quite like creating a warm, comforting meal that celebrates home-cooked goodness and wholesome flavors.
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Garden Salad: Bright and fresh, a crisp garden salad adds a crunch that pairs beautifully with the casserole’s creamy texture.
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Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the casserole’s savory sauce, enhancing each luscious bite.
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Steamed Green Beans: Tender green beans bring a vibrant color and crispness, balancing the richness of the casserole perfectly.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a cool crunch, enhancing the comforting warmth of the casserole while introducing a delightful flavor contrast.
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Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and fluffy cornbread muffins are a classic Southern delight that complements the casserole’s savory notes wonderfully.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the casserole’s savory flavors, offering a comforting side.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, consider a warm apple crisp for a sweet finish. The warm spices echo the casserole’s savory profile while delivering comfort.
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Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, complements the warmth of Southern flavors perfectly, enhancing your dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Low-Carb Vegetarian Southern Casserole ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your week! You can chop all the vegetables and mix the ingredients in advance, refrigerating the mixture for up to 3 days before cooking. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy the casserole, simply transfer it to your Instant Pot and cook according to the original instructions. This handy prep method not only saves time but guarantees that when you’re ready to serve, your dish will be just as delicious and comforting as if you made it fresh!
Storage Tips for Savory Chicken and Cabbage Soup
Fridge: Store your savory chicken and cabbage soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop until warmed through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the soup in advance and store it for quick meals. The flavors often improve after sitting, making it an ideal make-ahead option!
Variations & Substitutions for Savory Chicken and Cabbage Soup
Feel free to tailor this comforting soup to your taste buds and pantry staples, creating a personalized dish that’s all your own!
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Low-Carb Option: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets to keep carbs low while maintaining a hearty texture. This way, you can enjoy each comforting bite without any guilt!
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Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth and a protein like chickpeas or lentils for a filling, meat-free alternative. This variation adds a beautiful depth of flavor and nutrition, perfect for those seeking plant-based options.
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Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a luxurious, creamy texture that takes this soup to the next level. Just a little goes a long way in enriching the overall flavor!
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Herbicious Burst: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried ones for an aromatic lift. Fresh herbs balance the hearty ingredients and elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, incorporating jalapeños or crushed red pepper will spice things up beautifully. Add to taste, and create the warmth you crave in chilly weather!
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Savory Add-ins: Beyond cabbage, consider adding mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. These additions give your soup a unique twist, enticing your senses with every spoonful.
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Instant Pot Magic: Try making this in an Instant Pot: sauté your aromatics, throw everything in, and pressure cook on high for 10 minutes! You’ll achieve a deeply infused broth with minimal effort.
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Freezing Enhancements: Adding extra greens like kale or spinach before freezing will amp up the nutrition and flavor of your soup when reheating later. They’ll wilt nicely into your hearty bowl for a delicious surprise.
For added inspiration, embrace the flavors of the South with our warming Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole or add a creamy twist with the delightful Honey Pepper Chicken. Enjoy adapting this recipe to suit your preferences!
Expert Tips for Savory Chicken and Cabbage Soup
- Perfect Texture: Avoid overcooking the cabbage by adding it last; it should be tender yet maintain a little crunch for an enjoyable bite.
- Flavor Boost: For a more robust taste, consider simmering the soup longer and adding a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
- Stock Selection: Use homemade chicken broth if possible; it dramatically enhances the flavor of your savory chicken and cabbage soup.
- Veggie Variety: Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables; parsnips or sweet potatoes add wonderful flavor and nutrition.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs at the end for a vibrant lift; parsley or dill can brighten up the flavors beautifully.
Savory Chicken and Cabbage Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cabbage for this soup?
Absolutely! When selecting cabbage, you want firm heads with crisp leaves. Avoid any with dark spots or wilting, which can indicate past freshness. Green or purple varieties both work wonderfully. If you can, opt for organic to enjoy the freshest flavors!
How should I store leftovers of the soup?
To keep your savory chicken and cabbage soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing it up to avoid condensation and sogginess.
Can I freeze the leftover soup?
The answer is a resounding yes! This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave a little space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if the soup is too salty?
If you find your savory chicken and cabbage soup has taken a turn towards too salty, don’t worry! You can balance the flavor by adding a raw potato. Simply peel and dice a potato, throw it into the simmering soup, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. The potato will absorb some of the saltiness as it cooks.
Can this soup be made ahead of time?
Definitely! In fact, making the soup a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in the fridge after it’s cooled and simply reheat gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve. The soup can stay fresh for up to 3 days after cooking.
Savory Chicken and Cabbage Soup for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients for the savory chicken and cabbage soup. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, dice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic. Shred pre-cooked rotisserie chicken into small pieces.
- Set a large pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once heated, toss in the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Add the chopped cabbage, diced carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir together and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded chicken, bay leaf, thyme, and black pepper. Let this simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. If desired, add some crushed red pepper, then remove from heat. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped herbs.
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