Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
There’s something truly comforting about a dish that brings together humble ingredients in a simple yet satisfying way, and that’s exactly what I feel when I prepare Cabbage and Sausage Skillet. The aroma fills my kitchen, evoking memories of cozy family dinners where everyone gathers around the table to enjoy hearty food. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, with every bite reminding me of the warmth of home. On chilly winter nights, I find myself craving the warmth and richness that this skillet offers. It’s a one-pan wonder that makes cooking and cleaning up a breeze, leaving you with more time to enjoy the company of loved ones.
Recipe Snapshot
40 mins
10 mins
30 mins
Easy
350 kcal
20 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
15 g
Large Pot, Cutting Board, Skillet, Saucepan, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
The Beauty of This Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
Comforting and Hearty
What I love most about the Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is how it combines simple ingredients to create a filling meal. The tender, sautĂ©ed cabbage pairs beautifully with the savory sausage, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s one of those recipes that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for winter.
Quick and Simple
With just a handful of ingredients, this dish is incredibly easy to whip up. You can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour, which makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. The simplicity of the Cabbage and Sausage Skillet means you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen, and let’s be honest, sometimes we all need that!
Versatile and Customizable
This recipe is wonderfully versatile. You can easily switch up the sausage choice or even add in extra vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. It’s a perfect canvas for your creativity. This means that you can enjoy a different flavor profile every time you make it, keeping your weeknight meals exciting!
One-Pan Wonder
Another reason to love this dish? It’s a one-pan wonder! All you need is a large skillet, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward. After a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours cleaning up, and this recipe makes that a non-issue.
Perfect for Leftovers
The Cabbage and Sausage Skillet also makes for excellent leftovers. It reheats beautifully, making it an ideal meal prep option. You can make a big batch and enjoy it for lunches throughout the week, ensuring you have a nourishing meal ready when you need it.
What’s In This Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

When it comes to the ingredients for the Cabbage and Sausage Skillet, less is truly more. The key players in this dish are the cabbage and sausage, which come together to create a delightful medley of flavors. The olive oil adds a rich base, while the onion, salt, and pepper enhance the natural tastes of the vegetables. This combination not only works well together but also provides a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and comforting.
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided – This healthy fat adds richness and helps to sautĂ© the vegetables, enhancing their flavors.
- 14 ounces smoked, fully-cooked turkey sausage or chicken sausage, sliced into rounds – This adds protein and a smoky depth to the dish.
- ½ head cabbage cut into thin slices – The star of the show, delicious when sautĂ©ed until tender.
- 1 small yellow onion diced – This brings sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a bit of warmth and spice.
- 1 ¼ cups slow-sodium chicken stock – Keeps everything moist and adds savory flavor.
- 1 can fire-roasted tomatoes in their juices (15 ounces) – These provide acidity and a pop of flavor that brightens the dish.
- 1 cup instant brown rice – This makes the dish hearty and adds a nutty flavor.
Cabbage and Sausage Skillet Instructions

Cooking the Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is as straightforward as it gets. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. As the oil shimmers, add the sausage slices to the pan. You’ll want to cook them for a few minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This step is crucial as it brings out the best flavors in the sausage. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. You can use paper towels to blot any excess grease if desired.
With a paper towel, carefully wipe out the skillet. This helps to remove any residue left from the sausage. Next, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it on medium-high. Once hot, toss in the cabbage, onion, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture until the onion begins to soften and turn brown, which should take about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the aroma becoming delightful as the vegetables cook.
After the vegetables have softened, pour in 1 cup of chicken stock and cover the skillet. This step is important as it helps to steam the cabbage and allows it to cook down nicely. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure nothing is sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Next, add the remaining ¼ cup of chicken stock, the can of fire-roasted tomatoes (with their juices), and the instant brown rice. Stir everything well, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid. Bring this mixture to a boil, then give it another stir and cover the skillet once more. Reduce the heat and let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes, allowing the rice to cook through.
Now, it’s time to add the reserved sausage slices back into the skillet. Gently mix everything together, ensuring the sausage is well distributed throughout the cabbage and rice. Re-cover the skillet and remove it from the heat. Let it stand for about 5 minutes, which allows the remaining liquid to absorb and the rice to become tender.
Finally, it’s time to serve your delicious Cabbage and Sausage Skillet. Grab some plates, and spoon out generous portions. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors!
Things Worth Knowing
- Perfect Cooking Temperature: It’s crucial to cook the sausage at medium-high heat. This ensures they brown nicely without becoming tough.
- Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the cabbage and rice to simmer is key for developing flavors and ensuring everything is cooked through.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Recipe Variations about Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

The beauty of the Cabbage and Sausage Skillet lies in its adaptability. Here are some variations you can explore:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that elevates the flavors.
- Different Sausage: Experiment with different types of sausage like chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian option for variety.
- Add More Grains: Swap out instant brown rice for quinoa or farro for a different texture.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added at the end for a burst of freshness.
- Cheesy Delight: For cheese lovers, sprinkle some grated cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Perfect Pairings for Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
When it comes to serving the Cabbage and Sausage Skillet, there are plenty of delicious pairings to consider:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of fresh, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
- Side Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty flavors perfectly.
- Rice or Quinoa: If you prefer, serve this dish over extra rice or quinoa for a filling meal.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables make a great side dish and enhance the meal’s colors.
- Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is a comforting and fulfilling dish that provides warmth and satisfaction with every bite. It’s perfect for chilly nights and quick weeknight dinners. I encourage you to try making this skillet meal; it’s not just delicious but also brings a sense of home to your kitchen. Enjoy it with friends and family, as good food is best shared with loved ones.

Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet on medium-high heat. Add the sausage slices and cook for a few minutes on each side, until brown. Remove to a plate, blot with paper towels if needed, and set aside.
- With a paper towel, carefully wipe out the skillet. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil on medium-high. Add the cabbage, onion, salt, and pepper and cook until the onion begins to soften and brown, about 5 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of the chicken stock, cover, and reduce the heat. Simmer for 10 minutes, then add the remaining 1/4 cup chicken stock, canned tomatoes in their juices, and rice, stirring well.
- Bring to a boil, stir again, then cover and simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the reserved sausage slices, mixing well, then re-cover and remove from the heat. Let stand 5 minutes, until most of the remaining liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Tip 1: Place leftovers in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Tip 2: Gently rewarm leftovers in a large skillet over medium-low heat until hot.


