Smothered Cabbage With Sausage Skillet (Printable Version)

Smoky sausage and tender cabbage come together in this hearty, flavorful one-pan Southern-style skillet dish.

# What You Need:

→ Meats

01 - 14 oz smoked sausage such as kielbasa or andouille, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium green cabbage about 1.75 lbs, cored and sliced
03 - 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 large carrot, peeled and grated (optional)
06 - 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional)

→ Fats and Oils

07 - 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter

→ Seasonings

08 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
10 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
12 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Liquids

13 - 1/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, approximately 4 to 5 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.
02 - In the same skillet, add onion along with carrot and bell pepper if using. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
03 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Add sliced cabbage, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss all ingredients to combine thoroughly.
05 - Pour in chicken broth, cover the skillet, and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
06 - Uncover the skillet and return browned sausage. Stir well and continue cooking uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal cleanup makes this perfect for a Tuesday night.
  • Balanced Flavors: The smokiness of the sausage perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the caramelized cabbage.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, accessible ingredients that pack a nutritional punch.
  • Low Carb & Gluten-Free: A naturally healthy option that doesn't compromise on taste.
02 -
  • Acidity: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the very end of cooking to brighten all the savory flavors.
  • Wine Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a dry Riesling or a light-bodied red wine to cut through the richness of the sausage.
  • Check Labels: Always verify your sausage ingredients if you are strictly following a gluten-free or dairy-free diet.
Go Back