Short Description
Fried cabbage with sausage is a hearty, flavorful, and easy one-pan meal featuring tender sautéed cabbage, smoky sausage, and savory seasonings. This comforting Southern-inspired dish is perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Budget-friendly – Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients.
- Flavor-packed – Smoky sausage and caramelized cabbage create a delicious balance.
- Low-carb and keto-friendly – Naturally low in carbs and full of fiber.
- Great for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Green cabbage (chopped)
- Smoked sausage (sliced, andouille or kielbasa work well)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter or olive oil
- Chicken broth (for added moisture)
- Apple cider vinegar (for a slight tang)
- Paprika
- Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the sausage – Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the onions and garlic – In the same skillet, add butter or olive oil. Sauté onions until soft, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Cook the cabbage – Add chopped cabbage, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook until the cabbage softens (about 10 minutes).
- Deglaze the pan – Pour in chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Stir to release any browned bits.
- Combine and simmer – Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley and enjoy warm!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy version – Use hot andouille sausage or add extra red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian alternative – Swap sausage for mushrooms or smoked tofu.
- Bacon addition – Fry bacon first and use the drippings to cook the cabbage.
- Extra veggies – Add bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.
- Creamy version – Stir in a little heavy cream or shredded cheese.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
What’s the best sausage for this recipe?
Smoked sausage, andouille, kielbasa, or even turkey sausage work well.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes! Red cabbage works but may take slightly longer to soften.
How do I keep cabbage from getting soggy?
Cook over medium-high heat and avoid over-stirring.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats well and develops even more flavor.
What can I serve with this dish?
Enjoy it with cornbread, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s naturally low-carb and perfect for a keto diet.
Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Sauté the sausage, then pressure cook everything for 3 minutes.
How do I make it extra smoky?
Use smoked paprika and a smoked sausage variety.
Can I add potatoes?
Yes! Dice small potatoes and cook them with the cabbage.
What’s the best way to cut the cabbage?
Remove the core and slice into thin, bite-sized pieces.
Conclusion
Fried cabbage with sausage is a quick, flavorful, and budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main course or a side, this hearty recipe is sure to be a family favorite. Try it today for a comforting and satisfying meal!
PrintFried Cabbage Recipe with Sausage
This Fried Cabbage with Sausage is a quick, flavorful, and budget-friendly dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender cabbage, smoky sausage, and caramelized onions are sautéed with garlic and spices for a hearty meal that’s packed with comforting flavors. Serve it on its own or with rice, potatoes, or cornbread!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage (about 6 cups), chopped
- 12 oz (340g) smoked sausage (andouille, kielbasa, or turkey sausage), sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ tsp apple cider vinegar (for brightness, optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
- Add onion and cook for 2 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in garlic, cabbage, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 3: Combine & Finish
- Return the sausage to the skillet and mix well.
- Stir in apple cider vinegar for extra flavor (optional).
- Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a complete meal!
Notes
- Make It Low-Carb/Keto: Use a sugar-free sausage and omit the vinegar.
- Spicy Option: Add extra red pepper flakes or use spicy andouille sausage.
- Extra Flavor: Try adding ½ tsp Cajun seasoning for a Southern twist.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat.