This Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is a simple, hearty, and flavorful one-pan dish that combines tender cabbage with savory kielbasa sausage. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for weeknights, delivering a satisfying balance of textures and flavors in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, cut into ½-inch slices
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 whole cabbage, cored and roughly chopped
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- Chopped thyme or parsley, to serve (optional)
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced kielbasa sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausage is browned and crispy on the edges. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and season with salt and black pepper. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Cover the skillet and cook the cabbage for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 4: Add the Vinegar and Sausage
Once the cabbage is tender, stir in the apple cider vinegar (or red wine vinegar) for a tangy finish. Return the browned sausage to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sausage is heated through and the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped thyme or parsley for a fresh touch, if desired. Serve the Cabbage and Sausage Skillet hot, on its own or with crusty bread, potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes:
- Cabbage: Green cabbage works best in this recipe, but you can substitute with red cabbage or savoy cabbage for a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Vinegar: The vinegar adds a nice tang to balance the richness of the sausage and butter. Feel free to adjust the amount to your taste.
- Kielbasa Substitutes: If you don’t have kielbasa, you can substitute with smoked sausage, chorizo, or any other fully cooked sausage.
Variations:
1. Spicy Cabbage and Sausage Skillet:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper when sautéing the garlic for a spicy kick.
2. Creamy Cabbage and Sausage Skillet:
Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a rich, creamy sauce.
3. Add Potatoes or Carrots:
For a more filling dish, add diced potatoes or carrots to the skillet along with the onions. Cook until they are tender before adding the cabbage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
This Cabbage and Sausage Skillet pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up the flavors. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad.
This Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savory kielbasa, tender cabbage, and a hint of vinegar creates a deliciously balanced dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. Whether you enjoy it on its own or serve it with a side of potatoes or rice, this easy one-pan recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try today for a wholesome, fuss-free dinner!
