Smothered Cabbage With Sausage Skillet

Smoky sausage meets sweet, tender cabbage in this hearty, one-pan wonder perfect for busy weeknights. This Easy American Southern main dish serves 4 people and is ready in just 45 minutes, offering a satisfying meal that is both gluten-free and low-carb friendly.

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The beauty of this skillet lies in its simplicity. By browning the sausage first and then sautéing the vegetables in the same pan, you capture every bit of savory flavor. The cabbage is smothered and cooked until tender, creating a dish that is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 400 g (14 oz) smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 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)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
• 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)
• 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

To ensure the best results, use a large skillet with a lid. Always verify your sausage ingredients if you are gluten or dairy intolerant, as some brands may contain fillers. Necessary tools include a chef's knife, a cutting board, and a wooden spoon or spatula.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, simply swap the traditional meat for your favorite plant-based sausage. You can also add a grated large carrot or a sliced red bell pepper for extra color and a hint of sweetness.

Serviervorschläge

This dish is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or served over a bed of white rice. For a bright finish, add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end. For beverages, enjoy this meal with a dry Riesling or a light-bodied red wine.

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Whether you're looking for a quick Tuesday night dinner or a comforting weekend meal, this Smothered Cabbage With Sausage Skillet delivers. With 340 calories and 16g of protein per serving, it’s a balanced and flavorful choice for any home cook.

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Recipe Questions

→ What type of sausage works best for this dish?

Smoked sausage like kielbasa or andouille works perfectly. The smoky flavor complements the sweet cabbage beautifully. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.

→ How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy?

Cook covered for the first 10 minutes to steam and soften, then uncover and continue cooking to allow excess moisture to evaporate. This creates tender cabbage with slight caramelization without becoming mushy.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The flavors often deepen after resting.

→ What can I serve alongside this skillet?

This pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. For a lighter option, serve it on its own as a low-carb main dish with a simple side salad.

→ How can I add more flavor to this dish?

Add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end for brightness, increase the smoked paprika for deeper smokiness, or add a bay leaf while simmering. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives make a great garnish.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

The dish is naturally gluten-free, but always check your sausage ingredients as some brands may contain gluten fillers or additives. Choose certified gluten-free sausage if needed.