If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that bursts with flavor and is incredibly easy to throw together, this Cabbage and Sausage Skillet Recipe is going to become your new weeknight superstar. Picture tender cabbage mingling with smoky sausage, all cooked in a single skillet until those flavors marry perfectly. It’s a one-pan wonder that feels cozy and homey but also fresh and bright thanks to a splash of apple cider vinegar and a hint of smoked paprika. Whether you’re aiming to impress a hungry family or just want something satisfying without the fuss, this dish hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet play crucial roles in creating the perfect balance of savory, tender, and slightly tangy flavors that make this dish irresistible. Each item is easy to find and adds its own unique texture and character, whether it’s the smoky sausage or the crisp, fresh cabbage.
- 1 tablespoon salted butter: Adds richness and helps brown the sausage beautifully.
- 1 pound smoked sausage (or kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch pieces): The star protein, delivering smoky, juicy bites throughout the dish.
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced): Brings a sweet, foundational flavor when softened.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds that punch of aromatic depth to liven every bite.
- 1 head green cabbage (cored and coarsely chopped, about 6 cups): Provides the bulk, texture, and a mild sweetness.
- ¾ cup chicken broth: Helps steam the cabbage tender while intensifying the overall savory profile.
- 1 medium carrot (shredded, optional): Adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness for balance.
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: Brings a bright, tangy contrast to the richness.
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough heat to keep things interesting.
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Introduces smoky warmth and depth, reinforcing the sausage’s flavor.
How to Make Cabbage and Sausage Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by melting butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter’s melted and slightly foaming, add the sliced sausage. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes until it gets that gorgeous golden-brown crust that locks in juices and flavor. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate to rest while you work on the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Now, turn the heat down to medium and add diced onion to the same skillet—the rendered fat from the sausage adds incredible flavor here. Cook for about 3 minutes until the onion starts to soften and become translucent. Toss in the minced garlic last; it only needs about 30 seconds to release its fragrance without burning, so keep stirring constantly.
Step 3: Cook the Cabbage and Veggies
Time to add the cabbage, chicken broth, shredded carrot if you’re using it, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Give everything a good stir to coat the cabbage in all those beautiful flavors. Cover the skillet and let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes. During this time, the cabbage will soften and the broth will infuse the dish with savory goodness.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
Remove the lid and add the browned sausage back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently, making sure the sausage heats through and the cabbage is tender yet still has a little bite. Keep cooking uncovered for another 5 to 10 minutes so the liquid evaporates and the dish thickens to the perfect consistency.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve
Give the dish a taste, then adjust salt and pepper as needed. This is your moment to tailor it perfectly to your palate. Once seasoned, serve it hot right from the skillet and enjoy every savory, smoky, slightly tangy mouthful.
How to Serve Cabbage and Sausage Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a lovely burst of color and freshness, lifting the dish visually and flavor-wise. You could also try a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you love a hint of heat or a little drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a silky finish.
Side Dishes
This skillet recipe is hearty enough to stand on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides like buttery mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even a crisp green salad to balance the richness. Roasted root vegetables or a light cucumber salad would also make wonderful companions.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress it up for guests, serve this dish in rustic cast iron skillets or individual mini skillets for a fun presentation. You could also serve it over creamy polenta or buttered egg noodles, turning it into a more substantial entrée that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cabbage and Sausage Skillet Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Just cool it completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it covered, stirring midway to ensure even heating. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this dish?
Absolutely! Smoked sausage or kielbasa works best for that smoky flavor, but you can swap it with Italian sausage or even chicken sausage if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Is it necessary to add apple cider vinegar?
The apple cider vinegar adds a nice tang that brightens the dish. However, if you don’t have it on hand, a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine vinegar works well too.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can! Simply omit the sausage and add extra veggies like mushrooms or smoked tofu for a smoky kick. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian version.
How do I know when the cabbage is fully cooked?
The cabbage should be tender enough to pierce easily with a fork but not mushy. It will typically soften after about 15 to 20 minutes of cooking covered and then a few more minutes uncovered.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Definitely! Just use a large enough skillet or divide the ingredients between two pans. Cooking times may increase slightly, so keep an eye on the texture to make sure everything cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage and Sausage Skillet Recipe has all the qualities that make a dish a cherished favorite: simplicity, bold flavors, and comforting textures. It’s the kind of meal you can whip up any night of the week without fuss but still feel proud serving. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again. Give it a go, and prepare to fall in love with this delicious, timeless skillet meal!
Print
Cabbage and Sausage Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 48 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender cabbage and smoky sausage, enhanced with aromatic onions, garlic, and a hint of apple cider vinegar. Perfect for a comforting family meal that comes together quickly on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 1 pound smoked sausage (or kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch pieces)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 head green cabbage (cored and coarsely chopped, about 6 cups)
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 1 medium carrot (shredded, optional)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium. Using the same skillet, add diced onions and cook until they are slightly softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Cook Cabbage Mixture: Add the coarsely chopped cabbage, chicken broth, shredded carrot if using, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika into the skillet. Cover the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to soften, approximately 15 minutes.
- Combine Sausage and Cabbage: Remove the cover, return the browned sausage to the skillet, and toss everything together. Continue cooking uncovered for another 5 to 10 minutes until the liquid has mostly evaporated and the cabbage is tender.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- For added sweetness, include the optional shredded carrot.
- Smoked paprika adds depth but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Use kielbasa or any smoked sausage as preferred.
- Adjust salt according to the saltiness of the sausage used.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or over rice.
