Sausage and Cabbage Skillet Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with how simple and ridiculously delicious this Sausage and Cabbage Skillet is! This hearty dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it absolutely perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something comforting, nourishing, and downright satisfying. It’s packed with bold flavors, tender cabbage, and juicy sausage that crisps up beautifully — pure magic in one pan!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Fuss-Free: A true one-skillet wonder that’s ready in no time with minimal cleanup.
• Incredible Flavor: The smoky sausage mixed with sweet, tender cabbage is a flavor combo that never disappoints.
• Healthy and Filling: Low-carb, high-protein, and full of fiber thanks to the cabbage — it’s a meal that satisfies without feeling heavy.
• Customizable: Perfect as a base for adding your favorite veggies, spices, or even switching up the protein.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this Sausage and Cabbage Skillet:

• Sausage: Use a good-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor; turkey or chicken sausage works too if you want a lighter option.
• Cabbage: Fresh green cabbage is the star here; it softens and sweetens as it cooks.
• Onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic base that makes the dish richer.
• Garlic: Essential for that bold, savory depth; use fresh cloves if possible.
• Olive Oil or Butter: Helps the sausage crisp up and adds richness to the skillet.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to let the main ingredients shine.
• Paprika: A hint of smoky spice that pairs beautifully with the sausage.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Just a splash brightens everything up and balances the richness.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a little kick if you like some heat!

Variations

Looking to mix it up? Here are some easy ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms would fit right in.
• Swap the Protein: Try kielbasa, bratwurst, or even chunks of cooked chicken breast.
• Go Spicy: Use hot sausage and extra red pepper flakes for a fiery version.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sprinkle some shredded cheese before serving for a decadent touch.

How to Make Sausage and Cabbage Skillet

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Slice the sausage into rounds, shred the cabbage, dice the onion, and mince the garlic so everything is ready to go.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Cook the sausage slices until they’re golden and crispy around the edges. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until softened and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant — just about a minute.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

Add the cabbage to the skillet. It will seem like a lot at first, but it wilts down beautifully! Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Stir occasionally until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Bring It Together

Return the sausage to the skillet and toss everything together until heated through and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Dish it up while it’s warm and watch it disappear!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Slice the sausage evenly: This ensures each piece gets that irresistible crispy edge.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the sausage enough room to brown properly.
• Season in layers: Season the onions and cabbage separately for the deepest flavor.
• Taste before serving: A little extra vinegar or a pinch more salt can brighten everything up at the end.

How to Serve

This Sausage and Cabbage Skillet is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving:

Over Grains

Spoon it over fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or even cooked quinoa for a hearty meal.

With Bread

Serve with a crusty baguette or some warm cornbread to soak up all those savory juices.

Simple Side Salad

Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

As a Meal Prep Star

Pack it into lunch containers for a ready-to-go meal that reheats like a dream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better as they sit!

Freezing

Freeze cooled portions in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each.

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, absolutely! Red cabbage works beautifully in this recipe, though the color will darken as it cooks.

What’s the best sausage to use for this recipe?
Smoked sausages like kielbasa, andouille, or even a good-quality chicken sausage are fantastic choices because they bring so much flavor without much effort.

Can I make this vegetarian?
You sure can! Swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative or use seasoned tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.

Why add apple cider vinegar?
The vinegar cuts through the richness and brightens up the entire dish, giving it a subtle tang that balances the smoky flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage and Cabbage Skillet is the kind of recipe that proves simple ingredients can create something truly amazing. It’s fast, it’s flavorful, and it’s flexible enough to fit whatever you’ve got in the fridge. Give it a try — it might just become your new go-to for cozy, quick dinners!

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