Smothered Cabbage With Sausage Skillet

Smoky sausage meets sweet, tender cabbage in this hearty, one-pan wonder perfect for busy weeknights. This American Southern classic transforms humble ingredients into a flavorful meal that is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare, bringing warmth and comfort to your dinner table in just 45 minutes.

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The beauty of this skillet dish lies in the layering of flavors. By browning the sausage first, you create a savory base that seasons the vegetables as they cook. The addition of smoked paprika and thyme adds an earthy depth that elevates the dish from a simple stir-fry to a true Southern-style smothered masterpiece.

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

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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

For the best results, use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron to ensure even heat distribution. Ensure you don't overcrowd the pan initially so the sausage can brown properly. If the cabbage seems too dry during the uncovered stage, you can add a tablespoon more of broth to keep it from sticking while it caramelizes.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly adaptable. For a vegetarian version, simply use a high-quality plant-based smoked sausage. If you want a bit more texture, the optional grated carrot adds a lovely color and additional sweetness. For those who enjoy heat, don't skip the crushed red pepper flakes!

Serviervorschläge

Serve this hearty skillet on its own for a low-carb meal, or pair it with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the juices. It also goes wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or served over a bed of fluffy white rice for a more filling dinner experience.

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Whether you're cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this Smothered Cabbage With Sausage Skillet is a reliable, delicious choice. Its combination of simple prep and deep, smoky flavors makes it a recipe you'll return to again and again.

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Common Questions

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute with any smoked sausage variety such as kielbasa, andouille, or even turkey sausage. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage alternatives.

→ How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy?

Cook uncovered during the final 10-15 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. This helps the cabbage caramelize slightly while maintaining a tender-crisp texture.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This pairs beautifully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or over rice. For a lighter option, serve it as-is or alongside a simple green salad.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dish reheats well. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

→ How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to add grated carrots, sliced bell peppers, or even diced tomatoes. You can also incorporate mushrooms or celery for extra texture and flavor depth.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Divide into individual portions and store in meal prep containers. It maintains its flavor and texture well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.