The sizzle of smoky sausage hits the pan, filling your kitchen with that irresistible comfort-food aroma. This cabbage and sausage skillet brings together tender cabbage and savory sausage in one gorgeous mess of flavors. It’s become my go-to weeknight hero when I need something hearty and satisfying.
Think of it as the coziest low carb dinner that practically cooks itself. Just slice, toss, and let the magic happen as sweet cabbage caramelizes with your favorite sausage. It’s like having a warm hug on a plate, but ready in about twenty minutes. Full details in the blog!
I’ve been tweaking this recipe for months, playing with different spice combinations and testing which sausages work best. My secret involves a pinch of smoked paprika that transforms the whole dish into something restaurant-worthy. I tested it on my pickiest friends, and now they’re all asking for the recipe.
PrintCabbage and Sausage Skillet: Easy Delicious Recipe
This Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is a quick and hearty meal featuring smoky sausage and tender vegetables. Perfect for a Keto Sausage Cabbage Skillet or a Smoked Sausage Fried Cabbage dinner, it is a low carb sausage cabbage recipe you’ll love. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an easy cabbage sausage dinner option for any night.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Standard
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage such as kielbasa sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ cup onion chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced
- 4 cups cabbage coarsely chopped
- 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Warm the olive oil on medium-high heat in a large skillet and brown the sausage slices for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden.
- Remove the sausage and keep it covered to maintain warmth.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion until it softens, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped cabbage, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper then cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the cabbage wilts.
- Return the sausage to the skillet and heat everything together for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley just before serving.
Notes
- I typically use kielbasa as it’s flavorful and readily available
- You can use turkey or beef kielbasa, either will work just fine
- Make sure to wash and dry your cabbage before cooking it
- Chop the cabbage pieces to about the same size as your sausage slices
Nutrition
- Calories: 328kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 601mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 88mg
Why This Cabbage and Sausage Skillet Will Win You Over
There’s something magical about watching cabbage transform from crisp leaves into silky, caramelized ribbons. This low carb sausage cabbage recipe delivers comfort food satisfaction without heaviness, making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners when you want something hearty but not overwhelming.
The beauty lies in its simplicityjust a handful of ingredients that work together like old friends. The smoky kielbasa adds depth while the Cajun seasoning brings a gentle warmth that makes every bite interesting. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen but secretly takes just 20 minutes.
Pro Tip: This recipe is naturally keto-friendly and works beautifully whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for busy days ahead.
Breaking Down Your Ingredients (And My Favorite Swaps)
Each ingredient in this skillet plays a key role in building layers of flavor. The olive oil starts things off with a good sear, while the butter adds richness that makes the onions sing. I love how the garlic mingles with the Cajun seasoning to create a warm, aromatic base.
The real star is finding the right balance between your sausage and cabbage. I typically aim for pieces that are roughly the same sizeit helps everything cook evenly and makes each forkful perfectly balanced.
| Ingredient | Best Swaps | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Kielbasa | Andouille, turkey sausage, chicken sausage | More spice, lighter texture |
| Cajun seasoning | Paprika + garlic powder, Italian seasoning | Milder or herbaceous |
| Butter | Extra olive oil, ghee | Neutral or nutty notes |
How This Easy Cabbage Sausage Dinner Comes Together
The secret to perfect results is getting that sausage beautifully golden before adding anything else. Those caramelized edges create the flavor foundation for everything that follows. Once you pull the sausage out, all those lovely browned bits remain behind to flavor the vegetables.
When you add the cabbage, don’t panic if your pan looks overloadedit’ll wilt down dramatically in just a few minutes. I like to let it cook undisturbed for the first few minutes, then give it gentle stirs to help it caramelize evenly.
- Golden sausage first: 3-4 minutes per side builds flavor
- Soften aromatics: Onions need their full 5 minutes to sweeten
- Quick garlic moment: Just 30 seconds prevents burning
- Patient cabbage cooking: 8-10 minutes for perfect tenderness
Troubleshooting Your Skillet Success
If your cabbage is releasing too much liquid, simply increase the heat slightly and let it bubble away. Sometimes fresher cabbages hold more moisture, and that’s completely normal. The key is not to cover the panyou want that steam to escape.
Worried about overcooking? Your cabbage should be wilted and tender but still have a slight bite. If it starts looking mushy, pull it off the heat immediately and let the residual warmth finish the job.
Note: If your sausage seems to be browning too quickly, lower the heat to medium. It’s better to take an extra minute than end up with burnt edges and raw centers.
Making It Your Own
This cabbage and sausage skillet is incredibly forgiving and practically begs for personal touches. I’ve made versions with spicy andouille when I want extra heat, or swapped in chicken sausage for lighter weeknight meals. Both options work beautifully.
For a heartier version, some people love adding diced potatoes at the same time as the onionsjust give them a few extra minutes to become tender. The result is essentially a one pot sausage cabbage potatoes dish that’s even more filling.
- Spice lovers: Add red pepper flakes with the garlic
- Herb enthusiasts: Try fresh thyme instead of parsley
- Veggie boost: Bell peppers or mushrooms work wonderfully
Serving and Storage Made Simple
This dish is delicious on its own, but I love serving it over mashed potatoes or alongside crusty bread to soak up any pan juices. It also makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken.
Leftovers actually taste even better the next day as the flavors mellow and meld together. I often make a double batch on Sunday and use it for quick lunches throughout the week.
| Storage Method | Timeline | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Skillet over medium heat, add splash of water |
| Freezer | 2-3 months | Thaw overnight, reheat gently |
| Meal prep containers | 4-5 days | Microwave in 30-second intervals |
Expert Says
Cabbage and sausage skillet is not only quick to prepare, but it also offers a balanced mix of nutrients. Cabbage is rich in vitamins K and C, while sausage provides protein and flavor depth. Cooking them together intensifies their flavors and ensures the dish remains satisfying.
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The Evolution of My Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
This cabbage and sausage skillet recipe took me many attempts to get just right. I remember the first time I made it; I overcooked the cabbage and ended up with a mushy mess! Through trial and error, I finally discovered the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making this dish a cherished family favorite.
FAQs ( Cabbage and Sausage Skillet )
What is the best sausage for this dish?
Smoked sausage, such as kielbasa or andouille, works wonderfully in this meal. For a leaner option, try chicken sausage. Each type adds its unique flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the stir-fry.
How long can I store leftover cabbage and sausage?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 2-3 months. Ensure to reheat thoroughly before serving again.
Can I make this meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a day in advance. Chop the cabbage and sausage and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just combine and cook when you’re ready for a quick dinner!
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
This dish is indeed keto-friendly due to its low carbohydrate content. The combination of cabbage and sausage offers a satisfying, filling meal without the carbs found in traditional pasta or rice dishes.
Can I add other vegetables to the stir-fry?
Absolutely! You can include bell peppers, onions, or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender and delicious.
This cabbage and sausage skillet delivers exactly what you need on busy weeknightssmoky, caramelized flavors that taste like you spent hours cooking but actually take just 20 minutes. You’ll love how the cabbage transforms from crisp to silky, soaking up all those gorgeous pan juices. The result is pure comfort food magic that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas.
My favorite twist? Try swapping in spicy andouille for extra heat, or add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end for brightnessa trick I picked up from experimenting with flavor balances. This keeps beautifully in the fridge for 3-4 days and tastes even better reheated, making it perfect for meal prep. Serve it over mashed potatoes or alongside crusty bread for the ultimate cozy dinner.
I’d love to see your version! Tag me if you share photosdid you grow up with skillet dinners like this? There’s something so special about these simple, soul-warming meals that bring families together around the table. Save this recipe for those nights when you want maximum comfort with minimal fuss. Happy cooking, friends!
