A simple, homey dish you can make on busy nights.
introduction
This fried cabbage and sausage is quick, tasty, and fills the table fast. It uses few ingredients and one pan. If you like easy skillet meals, try it instead of other heavy dishes like the perfect fried chicken sandwich for a change.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe because it is fast, cheap, and full of flavor. The sausage gives salt and smoke, and the cabbage cooks down to a soft, sweet bite. It is a good weeknight meal and makes great leftovers. For simple flavor ideas from other cuisines, see this short guide.
how to make Fried Cabbage and Sausage
You cook the onion and garlic first, brown the sausage, then add cabbage and cook until it softens. Stir and season as you go. Cover briefly to steam so the cabbage becomes tender but still has a little bite.
Ingredients :
½ medium head of green cabbage (4-5 cups, chopped), 1 pound of sausage (kielbasa, smoked, or turkey), 1 medium yellow onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tablespoons olive oil, Salt and pepper to taste, Optional: red pepper flakes or smoked paprika
Directions :
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic for one more minute. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook until browned (7-10 minutes), stirring occasionally. Incorporate the chopped cabbage into the skillet, mixing well. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices. Cover briefly to steam until tender yet slightly crunchy (another 10 minutes). Serve hot.

how to serve Fried Cabbage and Sausage
Serve hot from the pan. It goes well with plain rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. You can top it with a little hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
how to store Fried Cabbage and Sausage
Cool to room temperature, then put in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. Do not leave out more than two hours.
tips to make Fried Cabbage and Sausage
- Cut the cabbage into even pieces so it cooks the same time.
- Use a hot pan to brown the sausage well.
- If you want more crisp, cook uncovered a bit longer.
- For quick searing and pan tricks, check this simple guide for ideas you can adapt.
variation (if any)
- Add sliced bell pepper or a carrot for color and sweetness.
- Use bacon instead of sausage for a smoky taste.
- Make it vegetarian: use smoked tofu or tempeh and a little liquid smoke.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen cabbage?
A: Thawed frozen cabbage works, but it may be softer. Drain extra water before cooking.
Q: What sausage type is best?
A: Kielbasa or smoked sausage gives great flavor. Turkey sausage is lighter.
Q: Is this spicy?
A: Not by itself. Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for heat.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes. Use a larger skillet or cook in batches so the cabbage browns well.
Conclusion
For another take on fried cabbage with sausage and more tips, see this recipe guide: Fried Cabbage With Sausage – Brooklyn Farm Girl.
Print
Fried Cabbage and Sausage
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A quick and easy skillet meal featuring fried cabbage and sausage, perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
- ½ medium head of green cabbage (4–5 cups, chopped)
- 1 pound sausage (kielbasa, smoked, or turkey)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes or smoked paprika
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic for one more minute.
- Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook until browned (7-10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate the chopped cabbage into the skillet, mixing well.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until wilted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Cover briefly to steam until tender yet slightly crunchy (another 10 minutes).
- Serve hot.
Notes
For a variation, add sliced bell pepper or carrot for color. Bacon can be used instead of sausage for a smoky flavor. To make it vegetarian, substitute with smoked tofu or tempeh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: cabbage, sausage, skillet meal, quick recipe, weeknight dinner