Fried Cabbage and Sausage Recipe

A Simple, Flavorful One-Pan Meal

Fried cabbage and sausage is a hearty, budget-friendly dish that comes together quickly in just one pan. This comforting meal balances the natural sweetness of caramelized cabbage with the savory, smoky richness of sausage. Whether served on its own or as a side dish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• One-Pan Dish – Fewer dishes to clean, making it a hassle-free meal.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Customizable – Easily adjustable to fit different diets and flavor preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
• 12 oz smoked sausage (kielbasa or andouille), sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick)

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients – Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and slice the sausage into thin rounds. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Cook the Sausage – In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onion & Garlic – In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil or butter. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add the Cabbage – Toss in the chopped cabbage, stirring occasionally, and cook for about 10-15 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
5. Season the Dish – Sprinkle in smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Combine & Finish – Return the sausage to the skillet and mix everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. If using, drizzle with apple cider vinegar and stir.
7. Serve & Enjoy – Serve hot as a main dish or side.

Variations & Substitutions

• Protein Options – Try bacon, ground beef, or chicken sausage instead of smoked sausage.
• Vegetable Additions – Add bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Low-Carb Version – This dish is naturally low in carbs, but you can make it keto-friendly by using high-fat sausage and butter.
• Spice It Up – Use cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as cabbage can become mushy when thawed.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Yes, red cabbage works, but it has a firmer texture and a slightly different flavor. It may also take a bit longer to cook.

What’s the best type of sausage to use?

Smoked sausage like kielbasa or andouille adds great flavor, but you can use any fully cooked sausage, including turkey or chicken sausage.

How can I prevent the cabbage from getting too mushy?

Cook it over medium-high heat and avoid over-stirring. Let it caramelize slightly for the best texture.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs, especially if you use high-fat sausage and butter instead of olive oil.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables or plant-based sausage alternatives.

What should I serve with fried cabbage and sausage?

It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, cornbread, or a side salad.

Can I add potatoes to this recipe?

Yes, diced potatoes can be added, but they should be pre-cooked or parboiled to ensure they cook evenly.

How do I make this dish less greasy?

Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork, and opt for olive oil instead of butter.

What’s a good substitute for apple cider vinegar?

Lemon juice or white vinegar works well if you don’t have apple cider vinegar.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but it won’t have the same caramelization. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

Fried cabbage and sausage is a simple, delicious dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to make. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a side, it’s a satisfying meal that fits any occasion. Try it with different seasonings and ingredients to make it your own!

O

Print