My hubby can eat 5 bowls of this stuff all by himself!

On a chilly Midwestern evening, there's nothing quite like a bowl of creamy cabbage soup to warm your soul. This recipe harks back to the days when hearty, simple dishes were a necessity for hardworking folks. It was a staple in my Grandma’s farmhouse kitchen, where every ingredient was grown with care and cooked with love. Whether you're looking to evoke the rustic charm of days gone by or simply want a comforting meal, Slow Cooker Creamy Cabbage Soup is a time-honored favorite.

This creamy cabbage soup pairs wonderfully with a loaf of crusty bread or homemade biscuits to soak up every drop of the delicious broth. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can brighten the meal. For a touch of extra heartiness, serve it alongside some grilled sausages or roasted chicken. And don’t forget to finish the meal with a slice of classic apple pie for a truly nostalgic feast.

Servings: 6-8 servings

1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
1 large onion, diced
2 large carrots, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups water
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 bay leaf

Place the chopped cabbage, diced onion, sliced carrots, and minced garlic in your slow cooker.

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and water, then stir to combine.

Add the bay leaf, salt, black pepper, thyme, parsley, and paprika. Stir well.

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.

Remove the bay leaf from the soup.

Stir in the heavy cream and butter until well combined and heated through.

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving.

For a heartier version, add diced potatoes or cooked, crumbled sausage to the slow cooker along with the vegetables. Those looking to lighten the recipe can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a non-dairy creamer. Additionally, a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end can add a delightful tang to the soup. For an extra touch of warmth, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to give it a gentle kick.