Fried Cabbage with Sausage is a quick and comforting stovetop meal made with tender cabbage and browned sausage. Budget-friendly, one-pan, and packed with flavor, this dish comes together fast for an easy weeknight dinner the whole family loves.
1medium head green cabbage, cored and chopped, about 2 to 2 ½ pounds($2.48)
½teaspoonsmoked paprika($0.04)
salt and ground black pepper, to taste
¼teaspoonred pepper flakes, optional($0.02)
Instructions
Brown sausage. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for about 5 minutes, until browned on both sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook aromatics. Add the butter or oil to the skillet. Stir in the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add cabbage. Add the chopped cabbage and stir to coat. Season with smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and lightly caramelized.
Combine and finish. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve. Serve warm.
Notes
Cabbage texture. For softer cabbage, cover the skillet briefly during cooking.
Deglazing. If browned bits stick to the pan, add a small splash of water or broth and scrape to release flavor.
Serving ideas. Serve over rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes, or pair with cornbread or biscuits.
Storage. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.