Hello, welcome to my beautiful world! My name is Prisca Bush. I am a food lover; I enjoy writing about my favorite recipes.
Introduction
If you’ve ever had one of those days when you crave something warm, hearty, and down-to-earth—the kind of meal that feels like a hug from the inside out—then this Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe is for you.
I still remember the first time I made Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted something easy but satisfying. I had a head of cabbage sitting in the fridge and some smoked sausage from the weekend—so I tossed them together in a skillet, added a few spices, and hoped for the best. One bite later, I was completely hooked.
The smoky sausage paired perfectly with the tender, slightly caramelized cabbage. The flavors were simple yet comforting, and the whole dish came together in under 30 minutes. It’s a one-pan meal that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something truly delicious.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a hearty side dish, or an easy meal prep option, this Southern-inspired classic, Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe hits all the right notes.
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Ingredients for Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this soul-warming Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe. The ingredients are flexible — feel free to adjust based on what’s in your pantry or fridge.
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head of green cabbage (about 6–7 cups), chopped
- 1 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for brightness)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (for a Southern-style kick)
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- ½ teaspoon brown sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
- A handful of cooked bacon pieces for extra smoky flavor
How to Prepare Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe
This Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe couldn’t be simpler — just a few easy steps, one skillet, and dinner’s ready.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Chop your cabbage into bite-sized pieces, discarding the tough core. Slice the sausage into coins, slice the onion, and mince the garlic.
It’s helpful to prep everything beforehand since this dish cooks quickly once you start.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
Once hot, add the sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and slightly crispy on the edges.
This step is key — the caramelized sausage adds tons of flavor to the dish. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same pan, add butter. Once melted, add the sliced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and golden.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 4: Add the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. At first, it might look like too much, but cabbage wilts down significantly as it cooks.
Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Stir everything together, then cover and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften and release its juices.
Step 5: Combine and Add Seasoning
Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Add the apple cider vinegar and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook uncovered for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and lightly browned around the edges.
Taste and adjust seasoning — add more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is tender, flavorful, and slightly caramelized, remove from heat.
Serve warm, straight from the skillet. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if you’d like a fresh touch.
How to Serve Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe
This Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a hearty main course or serve it alongside your favorite sides.
Here are some serving ideas:
- As a main dish: Serve a big scoop in a bowl with cornbread or biscuits on the side.
- With rice or potatoes: Pair with mashed potatoes, white rice, or even fried potatoes for a comforting meal.
- With eggs: Top it with a fried or poached egg for a delicious breakfast or brunch twist.
- As a side dish: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or baked fish.
It’s a satisfying, well-rounded meal on its own — the perfect mix of protein, veggies, and flavor.
Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe
- Use good-quality sausage. Smoked sausage or kielbasa gives the dish a deep, savory flavor. For a spicy version, use andouille sausage.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage. You want it tender with a bit of bite — not mushy.
- Add vinegar at the end. This brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the sausage.
- Use a large skillet. Cabbage needs space to cook down evenly.
- Customize your seasoning. Try Cajun seasoning, Creole spice, or even Italian herbs for a twist.
- Add a sweet note. A sprinkle of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey can balance the savory flavors beautifully.
- Make it a meal. Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or noodles for a heartier version.
- Meal prep friendly. This dish reheats well — perfect for leftovers or weekday lunches.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve made this classic Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe, it’s fun to experiment. Here are some tasty twists:
1. Cajun Fried Cabbage and Sausage
Add 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy, bold Southern flavor.
2. Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Sausage
Add chopped cooked bacon for extra smokiness and crunch.
3. Sweet and Savory Version
Add ½ teaspoon brown sugar and a handful of sliced apples for a sweet contrast to the smoky sausage.
4. Fried Cabbage with Potatoes
Dice and parboil some potatoes, then fry them in the pan before adding the cabbage for a hearty one-pan meal.
5. Keto-Friendly Version
Skip the potatoes or sugar and stick with sausage, cabbage, and spices for a low-carb meal.
6. Italian-Style Fried Cabbage
Use Italian sausage, a sprinkle of oregano, and a touch of grated Parmesan cheese to give it a Mediterranean twist.
7. Vegetarian Version
Swap sausage for plant-based sausage or chickpeas. Add a bit of liquid smoke or smoked paprika for flavor depth.
FAQs
1. Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Yes! Red cabbage works just as well, though the color will darken slightly as it cooks. It has a slightly sweeter flavor that complements the sausage nicely.
2. What type of sausage works best?
Smoked sausage or kielbasa is classic, but you can use andouille, Italian, or even turkey sausage for a lighter option.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely. Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
4. Can I freeze Fried Cabbage with Sausage?
Yes! Once cooled, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
5. How do I prevent soggy cabbage?
Cook uncovered toward the end to allow moisture to evaporate and help the cabbage brown slightly.
6. Can I use turkey or chicken sausage?
Absolutely! Leaner sausages work great if you’re watching calories or fat. Just add a touch of oil if the sausage doesn’t release much fat.
7. What’s the best way to cut cabbage for this recipe?
Quarter the cabbage, remove the core, and slice into thin strips or small bite-sized chunks for even cooking.
8. How can I make this dish spicy?
Add a diced jalapeño, crushed red pepper flakes, or use a spicy sausage like andouille or hot Italian.
9. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Try carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
10. Is this Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe healthy?
Yes—it’s low in carbs, high in fiber, and packed with protein. You can make it even healthier by using turkey sausage and reducing the butter.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)
(Based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 16g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
Nutrition values vary depending on the sausage and ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
Few meals capture the heart of home cooking quite like this Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe. It’s humble, hearty, and incredibly comforting—proof that the best dishes don’t have to be complicated.
From the smoky, savory sausage to the buttery, tender cabbage, every bite is full of rich, satisfying flavor. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you of family dinners, simple pleasures, and the beauty of a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet.
I’ve made this Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress—whether I’m cooking for guests, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy and filling. It’s a timeless classic that fits any occasion.
So next time you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly meal that’s as delicious as it is comforting, give this Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe a try. It’s a Southern staple that deserves a spot in every kitchen.