There’s something magical about the sizzle of sausage filling the kitchen. This Cabbage Sausage One-Pan Skillet is the kind of cozy meal that wraps you in warmth, and it’s been a favorite for busy weeknights. It’s no wonder it’s trendingsimple, hearty dinners like this just hit the spot.
Picture smoky sausage mingling with tender cabbage and spices, all cooked together in one pan. It’s comfort food you can whip up in 20 minutes, and it uses everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand. Think of it like a Southern classic, but quicker and with all that delicious flavor packed in.
Started making this skillet dish last fall when my fridge overflowed with cabbage from the farmer’s market. My neighbor popped by for a quick visit and couldn’t get enough of the aroma. The secret? Sauté the sausage first to really release those flavors. With over a decade of recipe testing under my belt, I can tell you, this one’s a keeper!
Joe Rooney
Cabbage Sausage One-Pan Skillet Quick Easy Recipe
This Cabbage Sausage One Pan Skillet recipe brings together tender sautéed cabbage and savory smoked sausage for a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for an easy smoked sausage cabbage skillet or a keto low carb sausage cabbage dinner, this dish is a simple, satisfying option that cooks up in under 30 minutes.
4 full cooked sausages, sliced into circles 1/4 inch thick
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 small head of cabbage, shredded
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional, omit if you wan to keep this mild
Method
Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
Add the sausage slices to the hot oil and sauté, turning regularly, until they brown lightly, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Transfer the browned sausage to a plate and set aside.
Add the remaining 1½ tablespoons of oil to the skillet along with the minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant and slightly golden.
Toss in the shredded cabbage, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using; stir to combine.
Cook the cabbage mixture, stirring now and then, until the cabbage softens but still retains some bite, roughly 10 minutes.
Return the sausage to the skillet and mix it in with the cabbage.
Continue cooking everything together for 3 to 5 minutes more until the sausage is heated through and the cabbage is tender.
Taste the dish and adjust salt as desired before serving.
Notes
You can find instructions for shredding cabbage in the text above the recipe card. Nutrition estimates are based on chicken sausage. For a spicier version, add thinly sliced white or yellow onion when cooking the cabbage.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to Prepare: This Cabbage Sausage One-Pan Skillet can be on your table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Cozy and Comforting: The combination of sautéed sausage and tender cabbage brings warmth and nostalgia, evoking memories of family dinners.
Healthy Simplicity: Packed with nutrients, this dish is a great choice for a keto low carb sausage cabbage dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means you can enjoy a relaxed evening after a satisfying mealscore!
Key Ingredients and Tools
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy smoked sausage cabbage skillet:
Olive or Avocado Oil: Essential for sautéing and adding depth of flavor.
Cooked Sausages: Your choice! I love using smoked sausage for that rich taste.
Minced Garlic: A must for that aromatic kick!
Cabbage: The star of the showshredded for quick cooking.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Tools: A large skillet (12” works like a charm), a sharp knife, and a cutting board will make your prep a breeze!
How It Works Step-by-Step
Heat Oil: Start by warming 1 tablespoon of oil in your skillet over medium-high heat.
Sauté Sausage: Add sliced sausage and cook until browned (about 1-2 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Cook Garlic: Add the remaining oil and sauté minced garlic until goldenjust a minute will do!
Add Cabbage: Toss in the shredded cabbage, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir and let it cook for about 10 minutes until tender.
Combine: Return the sausage to the pan, stir it all together, and let everything warm up for another 3-5 minutes.
Troubleshooting Tips
Cabbage Too Crunchy? If your cabbage doesn’t seem tender enough, simply add a splash of water and cover for a few minutes to steam it!
Sausage Not Browning? Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the sausage. This helps get that delicious caramelization.
Flavor Adjustment: Always taste before serving! Feel free to add more salt or pepper based on your preference. A dash of hot sauce can amp it up too!
Serving and Storage
Once you’ve whipped up your Cabbage Sausage One-Pan Skillet, here’s how to serve and store it:
Serving Suggestions: Perfect on its own or served with crusty bread for sopping up all that flavor.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Timing Chart
Action
0-2 Minutes
Sauté sausage until browned.
3-4 Minutes
Cook garlic until fragrant.
5-15 Minutes
Cook cabbage until tender.
16-20 Minutes
Combine sausage and cabbage, heat through.
Quick Tips
Customizable: Feel free to add in some chopped onions or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition!
Seasonal Spin: In fall, add a sprinkle of nutmeg for a cozy twist.
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze leftovers in portions for a quick meal later!
Expert Says
Cabbage sausage one pan skillet is not only convenient but also nutritious. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, which support immune function and bone health. The high fiber content aids digestion, making this dish a wholesome choice for any meal while simplifying cleanup with the one-pan approach.
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The Road to My Perfect Cabbage & Sausage One-Pan Skillet
This Cabbage & Sausage One-Pan Skillet took quite a few attempts to get it just right! I recall one batch where I accidentally used way too much salt the lesson? Taste as you go! Now, the balance of flavors makes it a go-to family favorite that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
FAQs ( Cabbage & Sausage One-Pan Skillet )
How long does it take to cook cabbage and sausage?
This meal typically takes about 20-30 minutes to cook. The key is to sauté the sausage first to develop flavor, then add the cabbage until tender. Adjust the timing based on your desired tenderness for the cabbage.
Can I use other types of sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute with turkey sausage or even diced kielbasa for a different flavor. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted if using uncooked sausage types.
What side dishes go well with this recipe?
This meal pairs nicely with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. If you’re looking for something more traditional, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or rice.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to cook this dish fresh. Leftovers can be stored and reheated easily, though!
Conclusion
You’ll love how this Cabbage Sausage One-Pan Skillet turns outsimple, hearty, and ready in just 20 minutes! The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like a warm hug, perfect for any night of the week.
For a little twist, try adding some diced bell peppers or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth. And don’t forget, leftovers store beautifully in the fridgejust reheat gently for that cozy vibe. A trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen is to serve it with a crusty loaf to soak up every last bite!
Have you tried making a dish like this before? I’d love to hear your stories and see your creations! Share this recipe with friends or save it for a chilly evening when you need a taste of home. Enjoy every delicious moment!
