Ingredients

• Smoked Sausage or Kielbasa: 1 lb, sliced
• Green Cabbage: 1 medium head, chopped
• Onion: 1 large, diced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Olive Oil or Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Salt and Pepper: to taste
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Red Pepper Flakes: optional, for a bit of heat
• Fresh Parsley: chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and dice the onion.
2. Slice the sausage into 1/4-inch rounds, and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
2. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned on both sides.
3. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Leave the flavorful drippings in the pan for the next step.

Step 3: Cook the Onion and Garlic

1. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
2. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes, until it begins to soften.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Cabbage and Seasonings

1. Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, stirring well to coat it with the oil and onion mixture.
2. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Stir everything together and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking

1. Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the cabbage and stir everything together.
2. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Once the sausage and cabbage are heated through and nicely seasoned, remove the skillet from heat.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve warm, either on its own or with a side of crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Absolutely! While smoked sausage or kielbasa is preferred for its smoky flavor, you can use Italian sausage, andouille, or even chorizo. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly with different sausage types.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes! Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or add hearty vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

Q: How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy?
A: Avoid overcooking the cabbage. It should be tender but still have a slight crunch. Cooking it over medium-high heat also helps caramelize the edges for better texture and flavor.

Q: Can I add potatoes to this dish?
A: Potatoes make a great addition! Dice them into small cubes and cook them with the onions for about 5-7 minutes before adding the cabbage.

Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: This recipe is not overly spicy. However, adding red pepper flakes introduces a mild heat, which can be adjusted to your taste or omitted entirely.

Tips for Making the Best Smoky Sausage and Cabbage Skillet

• Slice the Sausage Evenly: Slicing the sausage into even rounds helps them cook consistently, and browning them enhances their flavor and adds depth to the dish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Overcrowding the pan can cause the cabbage to steam rather than brown. Use a large skillet to ensure everything cooks evenly.
• Experiment with Herbs and Spices: Feel free to add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for an extra kick.
• Add Broth for Extra Flavor: For more depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken or vegetable broth after cooking the onions. This helps lift any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet.
• Serve with Side Dishes: This dish is quite versatile. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or even egg noodles for a more substantial meal.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet.
• Meal Prep: This sausage and cabbage skillet is ideal for meal prep. You can portion it out into containers for lunches throughout the week. The flavors intensify as it sits, making it even tastier the next day!

Conclusion

This Smoky Sausage and Cabbage Skillet is a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients. The combination of smoky sausage, tender cabbage, and aromatic spices creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With minimal ingredients and just one skillet, this recipe makes for easy cooking and cleanup.

Whether you’re serving it up as a cozy dinner or preparing it in advance for weekday lunches, this skillet meal is sure to become a go-to recipe in your rotation. Enjoy the rich flavors and the simplicity of this one-pan wonder, perfect for any day of the week.