Looking for the ultimate comfort food? Few dishes satisfy like a warm, hearty serving of cabbage and sausage. This classic Southern recipe is a staple, loved for its simplicity, bold flavors, and versatility. Whether you’re serving it as a savory side or a main dish, this cabbage and sausage recipe is sure to become a family favorite in your cozy meal rotation. Packed with delicious, savory flavors, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Discover why this cabbage and sausage recipe is a must-have for effortless, flavorful home cooking!
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the cabbage and sausage recipe, explore different variations, and provide all the details you need to create this mouthwatering dish at home.
What Makes Cabbage and Sausage So Special?
Cabbage and sausage are a match made in comfort food heaven. The cabbage is tender and caramelized, adding a mild sweetness that balances the rich, savory flavors of the sausage. Andouille sausage (or kielbasa) brings a smoky, spiced kick that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Together, these ingredients create a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal.
This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for a filling side dish or a main course, cabbage and sausage is a dish you can enjoy any time.
Ingredients for Cabbage and Sausage Recipe
Before we get into the step-by-step instructions, let’s first take a look at the ingredients needed for this flavorful cabbage and sausage recipe. These ingredients are easy to find and are likely to be staples in your kitchen.
Main Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
| Unsalted Butter | 3 tablespoons | For sautéing the sausage and cabbage |
| Pre-cooked Andouille Sausage | 12 ounces (sliced) | Adds smoky, spiced flavor |
| Yellow Onion | 1 cup (chopped) | Adds sweetness and depth of flavor |
| Garlic Cloves | 4 (minced) | Adds fragrance and umami flavor |
| Brown Sugar | 2 teaspoons | Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness |
| Green Cabbage | 1 medium-sized head (about 2 lbs) | The base of the dish, adds texture and flavor |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 2 tablespoons | Adds acidity to balance the richness |
| Creole Cajun Seasoning | 2 teaspoons | Adds flavor depth with a blend of spices |
| Ground Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | Provides warmth and a slightly nutty flavor |
| Crushed Red Pepper Flakes | 1/2 teaspoon (optional) | Adds heat and spice (optional) |
| Fresh Parsley | For garnish (optional) | For a fresh finish |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cabbage and Sausage
This cabbage and sausage recipe is incredibly simple to prepare.Try this easy cabbage and sausage recipe that requires minimal ingredients and cooks in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick, comforting meal full of flavor. Below are the step-by-step instructions to help you make this Southern dish:
Cook the Sausage
- Heat 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Once the butter is sizzling, add the sliced sausage (Andouille or kielbasa) in an even layer. Cook the sausage for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside for later.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent and tender, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and stir for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
Add the Brown Sugar
- Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of brown sugar into the pan and stir it into the onions and garlic. Allow the sugar to dissolve and caramelize slightly.
Cook the Cabbage
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet (you may need to add it in batches depending on the size of your pan).
- Pour 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar over the cabbage. Stir well to combine.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and cook the cabbage for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften.
- If needed, add any remaining cabbage and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
Add the Sausage and Seasoning
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the cabbage.
- Season the dish with 2 teaspoons of Creole Cajun seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional).
- Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve and Enjoy
- Once everything is fully cooked, remove the skillet from heat.
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more Cajun seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added flavor (optional).
- Serve immediately while hot!
Tips for the Best Cabbage and Sausage Recipe
While this recipe is easy to follow, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure you get the best results every time:
- Customize with Bell Peppers: Add chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and color. Sauté them along with the sausage and onion for a well-rounded dish.
- Mustard Lovers: If you enjoy mustard, drizzle Dijon mustard or stone-ground mustard over the finished dish for an extra kick.
- Tenderness of Cabbage: If you prefer your cabbage to be softer, cook it a bit longer. For a firmer texture, reduce the cooking time and let it retain more bite.
- Keto or Whole30-Friendly: For those following keto or Whole30 diets, omit the brown sugar to keep the recipe compliant.
Nutrition Facts for Cabbage and Sausage
Here is a general breakdown of the nutritional information for the cabbage and sausage dish, based on a serving size of 1/6th of the recipe (approximately):
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Protein | 12 grams |
| Fat | 18 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 10 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sugar | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 900 mg |
| Cholesterol | 40 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
FAQ
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use kielbasa, turkey sausage, or any other pre-cooked sausage you prefer. Andouille sausage adds a nice smoky flavor, but you can adjust to your taste.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! This cabbage and sausage recipe is naturally gluten-free, as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Always double-check the sausage label to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, or even potatoes can be added for more variety. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cabbage and sausage stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s also a great dish for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully in the microwave.
Reviews and Praise from the Community
Cabbage and sausage recipes have a loyal following due to their comforting nature and ease of preparation. Here’s what some home cooks are saying:
- Jane S. (5 stars): “This dish is perfect for a quick and filling dinner! I love the flavor of the sausage and cabbage together. It’s become a regular in our meal rotation.”
- Mark T. (4.5 stars): “The recipe was easy to follow and the flavors were amazing. I added some bell peppers for extra crunch. Definitely making this again.”
- Emily R. (5 stars): “I can’t believe how simple yet flavorful this dish is! My family loved it, and it made great leftovers.”
Conclusion
This cabbage and sausage recipe is the epitome of Southern comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make—perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. The combination of tender cabbage, smoky sausage, and savory seasonings will leave you craving more. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this dish is sure to be a hit.
By following the simple step-by-step instructions and tips provided, you’ll be able to make a delicious, satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. So, go ahead and try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of the South right at home!
