Cabbage and Sausage Recipe: Cabbage and sausage is a simple yet hearty dish that’s packed with flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish for the weekend, this recipe delivers a delicious blend of smoky sausage and tender, flavorful cabbage.
Plus, it’s easy to make in just one pan! Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we begin, gather all the necessary ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage (or kielbasa), sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- ½ cup chicken broth or water (for steaming)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for extra tang)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 large carrot, julienned (adds sweetness)
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (for color and crunch)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (for depth of flavor)
- ½ tsp caraway seeds (adds a unique taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped:
- Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the smoked sausage into rounds.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
This step makes the cooking process much smoother and quicker.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes golden brown.
- Once done, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
Browning the sausage adds a deep, smoky flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
These ingredients build a flavorful base for the dish.
Step 4: Cook the Cabbage
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pan and stir well.
- Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir to coat the cabbage with the seasoning.
- Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth or water and cover the pan with a lid.
- Let it steam for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Steaming helps soften the cabbage while keeping it slightly crisp.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
- Add the browned sausage back to the pan.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon of sugar (if using).
- Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
At this stage, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
- You can garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
This dish pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for the Best Cabbage and Sausage
- Use smoked sausage for the best flavor, but you can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage—it should be tender but still slightly crisp.
- Add mustard or vinegar to balance the richness of the sausage.
- Make it a full meal by adding potatoes or serving it over rice.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Cajun Version: Use andouille sausage and add Cajun seasoning.
- German-Style Version: Add caraway seeds and a splash of beer.
- Low-Carb Keto Version: Use extra butter and omit the sugar.
FAQs about Cabbage and Sausage Recipe
1. Can I use any type of sausage for this recipe?
Yes! You can use smoked sausage, kielbasa, andouille, or even turkey sausage. Each type adds a unique flavor to the dish.
2. What kind of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is the most common choice, but you can also use Napa or Savoy cabbage for a slightly different texture.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cabbage and sausage taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
4. How do I make this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
This dish is naturally low in carbs, but for a keto-friendly version, use a sugar-free sausage and avoid adding potatoes or starchy ingredients.
5. What can I serve with cabbage and sausage?
It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, cornbread, or even on its own for a hearty, one-pan meal.
6. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture.
7. How do I add more flavor?
Try adding garlic, paprika, a splash of apple cider vinegar, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to enhance the taste.
Conclusion
Cabbage and sausage is a quick, budget-friendly, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. With its smoky, savory flavors and tender cabbage, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Enjoy your homemade cabbage and sausage dish, and feel free to tweak the recipe to your taste!
