Cheesy Ham and Cabbage Soup for a Low Carb Breakfast

What You'll Need

• 4 cups chopped green cabbageabout half a medium head; look for vibrant, crisp leaves without any browning or wilting
• 1 lb diced hamuse pre-cooked ham for convenience; the smoky flavor adds depth to the soup
• 1 medium onion, choppeda sweet onion works wonderfully here; it brings a natural sweetness to balance the flavors
• 2 cloves garlic, mincedfresh garlic enhances the aroma and flavor; avoid pre-minced varieties for better results
• 4 cups chicken brothlow sodium is recommended; it allows you to control the saltiness of the soup
• 1 cup heavy creamfor a rich, creamy texture; avoid substitutes like skim milk, which won't yield the same result
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheesesharp cheddar adds a nice bite; feel free to add more for serving if you're a cheese lover
• 1 tsp dried thymeor use 1 tablespoon fresh thyme for a more aromatic flavor; dried is more concentrated
• 1 tsp black pepperadjust to taste; freshly cracked pepper adds more flavor than pre-ground
• 1 tsp saltto enhance all the flavors; start with less and adjust as needed
• 2 tbsp butterused for sautéing the onions and garlic; it adds richness to the base of the soup

When shopping for ingredients for this Cheesy Ham and Cabbage Soup, I recommend going for fresh produce and high-quality cheese. The combination of cabbage, ham, and cream creates a comforting and hearty dish that warms you right up.

Easy Substitutions

• Dairy-free: swap heavy cream for coconut milk — you'll get a slightly sweeter and tropical flavor, but the creaminess remains.
• Gluten-free: use gluten-free chicken broth — this ensures the soup is safe for those avoiding gluten, with no impact on flavor.
• Lower calorie: swap heavy cream for half-and-half — this will reduce calories and fat, but the final soup will be less rich and creamy.