When the weather turns chilly and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting meal to lift our spirits. And what better way to do that than with a hearty serving of cabbage and sausage? This classic combination is a staple of many cuisines around the world, from German-style sausages to Polish pierogies, and it’s easy to see why: the sweetness of the cabbage pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the sausage.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that combine these two ingredients in all sorts of creative ways. From quick weeknight dinners to slow-cooked stews and soups, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Smoked Sausage and Cabbage Skillet
A hearty one-pan wonder that combines the rich flavor of smoked sausage with the crunch of caramelized cabbage. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the shredded cabbage and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is caramelized and slightly charred, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If using chicken broth, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
German-Style Sausage and Cabbage Stew
This hearty stew is a classic German dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. With the rich flavors of sausage, cabbage, and potatoes, it’s a comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb German-style sausage (such as knockwurst or bratwurst), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups shredded cabbage
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cabbage, potatoes, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Cabbage and Sausage Soup
This hearty soup combines the comfort of sausage with the sweetness of cabbage, all in one pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a chilly weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the sausage, browning on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cabbage, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return sausage to the pot, stirring to coat with soup mixture.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Andouille Sausage with Braised Cabbage
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional sausage and cabbage! This recipe combines the bold flavors of Andouille sausage with the comfort of braised cabbage, all in one delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Spicy Andouille sausage
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Cook the Andouille sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
4. Add sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add caraway seeds, salt, and pepper to taste, then stir in chicken broth.
6. Place the cooked sausage on top of the cabbage mixture and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Kielbasa and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A hearty and flavorful stir-fry that combines the savory taste of kielbasa sausage with the crunch of fresh cabbage, all cooked to perfection in a wok or large skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced kielbasa sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and crispy.
3. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened.
6. Return the cooked kielbasa sausage to the skillet and stir in the soy sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Dinner
A hearty and comforting dinner that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cabbage, chopped
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped cabbage, sliced sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and caraway seeds. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Caramelized Cabbage with Italian Sausage
This hearty and flavorful dish combines the natural sweetness of caramelized cabbage with the savory taste of Italian sausage, creating a perfect comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 Italian sausages (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced cabbage and caraway seeds; stir to combine.
5. Cook the cabbage mixture for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until caramelized and tender.
6. Meanwhile, cook the Italian sausage in a separate pan over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Combine the cooked sausage with the caramelized cabbage mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Polish Sausage and Cabbage Pierogi Filling
This savory pierogi filling combines the flavors of Polish sausage, caramelized cabbage, and onions for a hearty and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Polish sausage (such as kielbasa or krakowska), sliced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the Polish sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Add the shredded cabbage, minced garlic, and caraway seeds to the skillet. Cook until the cabbage is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately as a pierogi filling or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Grilled Sausage with Cabbage Slaw
A classic summer combination that’s perfect for a quick and delicious meal or as a snack at your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 sausages (any type, such as bratwurst or hot dogs)
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the sausages for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. While the sausages are grilling, combine the shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well to combine.
4. Once the sausages are done, place them on hamburger buns (if using) or serve with the cabbage slaw.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Savory Cabbage and Sausage Casserole
This hearty casserole is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the added bonus of being quick to prepare. With tender cabbage, flavorful sausage, and crispy breadcrumbs on top, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in shredded cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Add sausage mixture and top with breadcrumb mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Hungarian Cabbage and Sausage Goulash
A hearty and flavorful stew originating from Hungary, this dish is perfect for a cold winter’s day. With the combination of tender cabbage, savory sausage, and rich paprika, you’ll be sure to warm up with every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 medium-sized cabbage heads, shredded
– 4 Hungarian sausages (such as kolbász or székelygulyás), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the sliced sausage and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Baked Cabbage and Sausage with Cheese
Baked Cabbage and Sausage with Cheese Recipe
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized cabbage with the savory flavor of sausage and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 sausages (any type), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced sausages to the skillet and stir to combine with the cabbage.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Cabbage and Sausage Hash
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the savory goodness of sausage with the crunch of cabbage, all wrapped up in a delicious hash.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups chopped cabbage (about half of a medium head)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped cabbage, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Sausage-Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy sausage and tangy cabbage for a hearty, one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, outer leaves removed and discarded
– 4-6 Polish-style sausage links (such as kielbasa), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbage head, then blanch it for 5-7 minutes or until slightly tender.
2. In a skillet, sauté the sliced sausage in butter until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Roll out each cabbage leaf to create a cup-like shape. Place about 1/4 cup of the sausage mixture onto the center of each leaf, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll the leaves into compact cylinders. Place seam-side down in the pot with the blanched cabbage.
5. Pour the chicken broth over the rolls and season with caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
6. Cover the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and the filling heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cabbage and Sausage Foil Packet Dinner
A hearty, one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a camping trip. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with the savory flavor of sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, shredded
– 4 Italian sausage links, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In the center of a large piece of aluminum foil, place a quarter cup of shredded cabbage.
3. Arrange two sausage slices on top of the cabbage.
4. Add a few onion slices and sprinkle with garlic powder.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the foil into a packet, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
7. Place the packet in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the sausage is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Sausage with Sautéed Cabbage
A flavorful and satisfying combination that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 garlic butter sausages (such as Andouille or smoked sausage)
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth for added moisture
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic butter mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve the sausages with the sautéed cabbage and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rustic Cabbage and Sausage Pasta
A hearty and comforting pasta dish that combines the flavors of caramelized cabbage, savory sausage, and rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or linguine)
– 1 large head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add sliced cabbage to skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 10 minutes).
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sausage, and tomato-cabbage sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cabbage with Smoked Sausage
Sweet and Sour Cabbage with Smoked Sausage Recipe
Summary: This hearty recipe combines the natural sweetness of caramelized cabbage with the smoky flavor of smoked sausage, all wrapped up in a tangy sweet and sour sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 smoked sausages (such as kielbasa or knockwurst), sliced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add shredded cabbage to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with cabbage mixture.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour sweet and sour sauce over the cabbage mixture and stir to combine.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cabbage is tender and sauce has thickened.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 18 mouth-watering cabbage and sausage recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From hearty stews and soups to skillet-cooked suppers and slow cooker dinners, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at classic pairings like German-style sausage and braised cabbage or spicy Andouille sausage with caramelized cabbage. Or get adventurous with dishes like Polish sausage pierogi filling or garlic butter sausage with sautéed cabbage. Whatever you choose, these comforting recipes are sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.