Smothered Cabbage With Sausage Skillet (Printable)

Smoky sausage and tender cabbage come together in this easy, hearty one-pan skillet meal perfect for busy nights.

# Components:

→ Meats

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

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium green cabbage (approximately 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 & 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

# Directions:

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 4-5 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside on a plate.
02 - In the same skillet, add sliced onion and carrot and bell pepper if using. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add sliced cabbage, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Toss all ingredients to combine thoroughly.
04 - Pour chicken broth into the skillet. Cover and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
05 - Uncover the skillet and return browned sausage to the pan. Stir well and continue cooking uncovered for 10-15 minutes until cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Transfer to serving plates and serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One-Pan Convenience: Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Diet-Friendly: A naturally low-carb meal that is easily adaptable for gluten-free diets.
  • Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and affordable vegetables like cabbage and onions.
02 -
  • Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a dry Riesling or a light-bodied red to complement the smoky sausage.
  • Allergen Safety: Always verify sausage ingredients if you are gluten or dairy intolerant.
  • Heat Control: Cooking the cabbage uncovered in the final steps allows it to caramelize rather than just steam.
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