Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup

Name: Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup with Mountain Dew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small head green cabbage (about 2 lbs); 1 lb smoked kielbasa; 32 oz unsalted chicken stock; 1 (12 oz) can Mountain Dew; 2 tbsp all-purpose seasoning; 1 tbsp butter powder seasoning; 1 tbsp spicy seafood seasoning

This hearty kielbasa and cabbage soup combines smoked sausage with tender cabbage in a savory broth, finished with a unique Mountain Dew twist that adds subtle sweetness and depth to balance the smoky, spiced flavors.

🌍American 🏷️Kielbasa soup 🏷️Cabbage soup 🏷️One-pot meal 🏷️Comfort food Easy recipe

🏷️

🏷️Weeknight dinner

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TikTok

Total

40 min

Servings

4

Difficulty

Easy

Est. Cost

$16–$26

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From TikTok

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TikTok

Ingredients

1 small head green cabbage (about 2 lbs)
1 lb smoked kielbasa
32 oz unsalted chicken stock
1 (12 oz) can Mountain Dew
2 tbsp all-purpose seasoning
1 tbsp butter powder seasoning
1 tbsp spicy seafood seasoning

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Instructions

1
Core the head of cabbage and chop it into large, bite-sized squares.
2
Place the chopped cabbage into a large stock pot.
3
Slice the smoked kielbasa into coins, cutting on a slight angle.
4
Add the sliced kielbasa to the pot with the cabbage.
5
Pour the unsalted chicken stock and the can of Mountain Dew into the pot.
6
Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
7
Add the all-purpose seasoning, butter powder seasoning, and spicy seafood seasoning to the pot. Stir everything to combine.
8
Cover the pot, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
9
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Slice kielbasa on the bias or into bite-sized rounds for faster, even cooking and better flavor distribution throughout the broth.
Add the Mountain Dew in the final 10–15 minutes of cooking to preserve its citrus brightness and prevent the carbonation from cooking off entirely.
Don't skip the all-purpose and butter powder seasonings—they build savory depth; taste and adjust salt after the kielbasa releases its saltiness.
For a richer broth, reserve 1–2 cups, partially puree it with cooked cabbage, and stir back in to create body without adding cream.

Substitutions

Mountain Dew → 12 oz ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, or chicken broth + 1 tbsp honey (adds sweetness without citrus fizz)
Smoked kielbasa → Polish sausage, andouille, or smoked bratwurst (adjust salt if using unsalted varieties)
Green cabbage → red cabbage (adds earthiness and deeper color; texture identical) or napa cabbage (more delicate, cooks faster)
Chicken stock → beef broth (deeper flavor) or vegetable stock (lighter; omit seasoning and taste first)

Storage & make-ahead

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days; freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding water if needed. Flavor improves after 24 hours.

Common Questions

Can I use a different sausage instead of kielbasa?

Yes. Polish sausage, andouille, or smoked bratwurst work well. Choose a fully cooked variety for convenience, or brown raw sausage first.

Why add Mountain Dew to soup?

The citrus and sugar in Mountain Dew add subtle sweetness and brightness that balances the smoky, savory kielbasa and umami broth without making it taste sweet.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Flavor deepens overnight.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients except Mountain Dew to the slow cooker, cook on low for 6–7 hours, then stir in Mountain Dew in the last 15 minutes before serving.