If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that feels like a big, comforting hug, then you’re going to love this Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Recipe. This dish brings together tender cabbage, golden potatoes, and smoky sausage in a skillet that’s bursting with flavor and just the right touch of rustic charm. It’s deceptively simple but packs a punch with every bite, making it ideal for cozy weeknight dinners, easy meal prep, or whenever you want something that’s both satisfying and straightforward. Let me walk you through how to create this beloved comfort dish in your own kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing complicated here — just a handful of simple, essential ingredients that work in harmony to deliver big flavor, beautiful texture, and inviting color to your plate. Each one is thoughtfully chosen to build that classic, homestyle taste.
- Olive oil: Provides a smooth, fruity base to sauté the sausage and veggies with a gentle richness.
- 14 oz smoked sausage: The star protein with its smoky, savory notes that really elevate the dish.
- 1 medium onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the overall flavor when caramelized.
- 3 cloves garlic: Brings aromatic warmth and subtle zing that wakes up the taste buds.
- 1 small head green cabbage: Adds bulk, mild sweetness, and a beautiful green color to brighten the skillet.
- 3 medium potatoes: Cut into cubes for a creamy, tender texture that balances the smokiness perfectly.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water: Helps steam the veggies gently and infuses moisture for tenderness.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor and adds a warm, subtle spice kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential to bring all flavors together and season the dish perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat that rounds out the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Sprinkles a fresh, herbaceous note to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the smoked sausage rounds and cook them until each side is beautifully browned, usually about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is crucial because browning unlocks that smoky, caramelized flavor that gives the dish its signature depth. Once done, set the sausage aside but keep that flavorful oil in the pan — you’re going to need it!
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet with all those lovely browned bits, toss in the sliced onions. Cook them for about 2 minutes until they start softening and becoming translucent, releasing a subtle sweetness. Add the minced garlic next and stir everything together until fragrant. The garlic cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid burning and bitterness.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Now, add your cubed potatoes to the pan. These need a bit more time, around 5 to 7 minutes, to start softening but still have some bite. Stir occasionally to make sure they cook evenly and soak up all those fantastic flavors developing in the pan.
Step 4: Add Cabbage and Seasonings
Next, stir in the chopped cabbage along with the chicken broth (or water), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cover the pan and let everything simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. The steam created will gently tenderize the cabbage and potatoes, melding the smoky, savory layers of the dish beautifully. This part is where the magic really begins!
Step 5: Finish with Sausage and Blend Flavors
Return your browned sausage to the skillet and give everything a good stir, blending those flavors together. Let it cook uncovered for about 5 more minutes so the sausage warms through and the flavors meld perfectly. If you’re feeling fancy, toss in some freshly chopped parsley right before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Serve Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives is a wonderful way to add a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the dish. For an extra tangy twist, a drizzle of apple cider vinegar or a dollop of Dijon mustard on the side makes for an unexpected but delightful flavor boost.
Side Dishes
This hearty meal stands well on its own, but if you want to round things out, light green salads with vinaigrette or crusty bread are perfect accompaniments. Steamed green beans or roasted carrots also bring nice color and crunch to the table without making the meal too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this recipe family-style straight from the skillet for that warm, inviting feel everyone can dig into together. Or spoon it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy polenta for a twist that keeps the dish’s heartiness but adds another dimension of comfort food goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Recipe actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to mingle. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to keep it fresh and safe.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this meal freezes nicely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture. Keep in mind the potatoes might soften a bit more after freezing, but the flavor will stay fantastic.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to warm everything evenly without drying it out. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the mixture, and finish off with a sprinkle of fresh herbs to revive the dish’s fresh appeal.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds a fantastic smoky flavor, you can substitute with kielbasa, Andouille, or even a milder sausage. Just remember to brown it well for maximum flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your sausage and broth don’t contain any wheat-based fillers or additives. Always check labels if you have gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Of course! Simply replace the smoked sausage with a plant-based sausage or add hearty mushrooms for a similar texture and depth. You might want to boost the smoked paprika slightly to keep the smoky character.
What’s the best type of potato for this dish?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes are perfect because they hold their shape well and become tender without turning mushy. Avoid waxy potatoes that might dry out or mealy varieties that break apart too much.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat it?
Yes! This recipe reheats beautifully and actually tastes better the next day once all the flavors have had time to marry. Just cool, store properly, and reheat gently to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Recipe is truly a classic comfort dish that’s easy to make yet deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or prepping meals for the week ahead, it hits all the right notes with its smoky, savory goodness and tender vegetables. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself — it’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a go-to favorite in any household!
Print
Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage is a rustic, one-pan comfort meal packed with hearty vegetables and savory smoked sausage. This easy skillet dish is full of flavor, simple to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add smoked sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pan, add sliced onions and cook for 2 minutes until they start to soften. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Cook Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pan and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown and soften.
- Add Cabbage and Seasonings: Stir in chopped cabbage, chicken broth (or water), smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well.
- Simmer Covered: Cover the pan and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the browned smoked sausage to the pan and stir everything together. Cook uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend and any excess liquid to evaporate.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving hot.
Notes
- Use red or Yukon gold potatoes for the best texture.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or Dijon mustard at the end for a tangy twist.
- Leftovers keep well and taste even better the next day.
