Pin It Smothered Cabbage With Sausage Skillet is the ultimate comfort food for busy nights. Smoky sausage meets sweet, tender cabbage in this hearty, one-pan wonder that takes just 45 minutes from start to finish. It is a classic example of American Southern cuisine that is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying for the whole family.
Pin It This recipe transforms simple green cabbage and yellow onions into a caramelized and tender base. By browning the sausage first, you build a savory foundation that seasons the vegetables as they simmer in chicken broth. It is a wholesome dish that provides 16g of protein and 340 calories per serving.
Ingredients
- Meats: 400 g (14 oz) smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- Vegetables: 1 medium green cabbage (about 800 g / 1.75 lbs), cored and sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, peeled and grated (optional)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- Fats & Oils: 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
- Seasonings: 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste), 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Liquids: 80 ml (1/3 cup) low-sodium chicken broth or water
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 4–5 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.
- Step 2
- In the same skillet, add onion (and carrot and bell pepper, if using). Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Step 3
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4
- Add the sliced cabbage, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss to combine.
- Step 5
- Pour in chicken broth. Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 6
- Uncover and return the browned sausage to the skillet. Stir well and continue cooking uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
- Step 7
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, use a large skillet with a tight-fitting lid to help the cabbage steam efficiently. A sturdy wooden spoon is perfect for scraping up the browned bits (fond) left by the sausage, which adds incredible depth to the broth. Always check your sausage labels to verify they meet your dietary needs regarding gluten or dairy.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This versatile skillet can easily be adapted for different diets. For a vegetarian version, simply swap the smoked sausage for your favorite plant-based alternative. Adding the optional grated carrot and sliced red bell pepper provides extra color and a subtle sweetness that complements the earthy cabbage perfectly.
Serviervorschläge
Enjoy this meal as a standalone low-carb dish, or serve it with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or over a bed of rice for a heartier feast. For a touch of brightness, stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar at the very end. Pair this rustic meal with a dry Riesling or a light-bodied red wine to enhance the smoky and sweet notes.
Pin It With its simple preparation and robust Southern flavors, this Smothered Cabbage with Sausage Skillet is sure to become a recurring favorite in your kitchen. It's a satisfying, nutrient-dense meal that proves one-pan cooking can be both easy and incredibly delicious.
Questions & Answers
- → What type of sausage works best for this dish?
Smoked sausage varieties like kielbasa or andouille work perfectly, providing the smoky, savory flavor that complements the sweet cabbage. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this skillet meal reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- → How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy?
Cook the cabbage covered for the first 10 minutes to steam and soften it, then uncover for the remaining time. This allows excess moisture to evaporate while caramelizing the edges without overcooking.
- → What can I serve alongside this skillet?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy white rice. For a lighter option, serve it as is since it's already a complete, satisfying meal.
- → Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Grated carrots and sliced bell peppers are great additions that add color and nutrition. You can also try adding diced tomatoes or sliced mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you choose sausage without gluten-containing fillers. Always check the sausage label to ensure it meets your dietary requirements, as some brands contain wheat or other gluten ingredients.