If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, then you absolutely must try the Sausage, Potatoes, and Cabbage Skillet Recipe. This dish brings together smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and vibrant cabbage in one sizzling skillet, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a classic that’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and ideal for family dinners or when you need a simple yet impressive one-pot wonder.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Sausage, Potatoes, and Cabbage Skillet Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the dish’s rich flavor profile and hearty texture, making this skillet a true crowd-pleaser.
- 2 pounds smoked sausage: Provides a smoky, savory base that infuses the whole dish with incredible flavor.
- 1 large onion: Adds sweetness and depth, softening as it cooks for perfect balance.
- 1 medium head cabbage: Brings a mild crunch and subtle earthiness, brightening the skillet.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps steam the vegetables and keep everything tender without extra fat.
- 1 pound carrots: Introduce natural sweetness and a lovely pop of orange color to the mix.
- 5 medium potatoes: Peel and cube for hearty body and comfort with every bite.
How to Make Sausage, Potatoes, and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the sausage and onion
Start by heating a large Dutch oven or soup kettle over medium heat. Toss in the sliced smoked sausage and the onion cut into eighths. Cooking these together until the sausage is lightly browned and the onion becomes tender is essential. This step really unlocks the deep, smoky flavor while softening the onion’s sharpness. Once ready, drain the excess fat to keep the skillet delicious without being greasy.
Step 2: Add cabbage and steam
Next, stir in the chopped cabbage and pour in half a cup of water. Cover the pot and turn the heat to low to allow the cabbage to steam gently for about 10 minutes. This softens the cabbage just right, making it melt-in-your-mouth tender while keeping its wonderful color and nutrients intact.
Step 3: Incorporate carrots and potatoes
Now add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Give everything a good mix so all the flavors start to marry beautifully. Cover the skillet again and continue cooking on low heat for 25 to 30 minutes. The vegetables will cook through until they’re tender but not mushy, delivering that perfect fork-tender bite.
How to Serve Sausage, Potatoes, and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up this hearty skillet, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top just before serving. A light dusting of cracked black pepper also adds a subtle kick and an inviting aroma that makes every mouthful even more enjoyable.
Side Dishes
This Sausage, Potatoes, and Cabbage Skillet Recipe stands perfectly on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it with a crisp green salad or a crusty bread roll to soak up those delicious juices. A simple side of pickles can also add a nice contrast with their tangy crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this skillet into a rustic family-style meal served directly in the pan at the table. Alternatively, plate individual servings topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for a creamy texture boost. You can even add a touch of hot sauce or mustard for some extra zing!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Sausage, Potatoes, and Cabbage Skillet Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the leftovers even tastier.
Freezing
If you want to save the skillet for later, freezing is a great option. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist and prevent sticking. Microwaving works too, but stirring midway helps heat the dish uniformly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage gives this recipe a wonderful depth, you can use bratwurst, kielbasa, or even spicy Italian sausage depending on your flavor preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the sausage is fully cooked and browned.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives or hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian version. You might want to add extra seasoning or smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Definitely. You can chop all your vegetables and slice the sausage ahead of time, then simply assemble and cook when ready. This saves plenty of time on busy days.
What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
A heavy-bottomed skillet or large pot with a tight-fitting lid works fine too. Just ensure it retains heat well for even cooking and steaming.
How do I keep the cabbage from getting mushy?
Steaming the cabbage just until tender prevents it from becoming mushy. Avoid overcooking by keeping to the recommended 10 minutes before adding the other vegetables.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely believe this Sausage, Potatoes, and Cabbage Skillet Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that nourishes both the body and soul. It’s simple, packed with flavor, and perfect for almost any occasion. So grab your skillet, gather those ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that feels like a celebration of home-cooked goodness.
Print
Sausage, Potatoes, and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring smoked sausage, tender potatoes, and cabbage cooked together to create a flavorful and filling dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 pounds smoked sausage, halved and cut into 3/4-inch slices
- 1 large onion, cut into eighths
- 1 medium head cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 pound carrots, cut into 1/2-inch slices
- 5 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch cubes
Instructions
- Cook the sausage and onion: In a large Dutch oven or soup kettle, cook the halved and sliced smoked sausage along with the cut onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook until the sausage is lightly browned and the onion is tender. Once cooked, drain excess fat.
- Add and cook cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage and 1/2 cup of water to the Dutch oven. Cover the pot and cook over low heat for about 10 minutes to soften the cabbage.
- Add carrots and potatoes: Add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Mix everything well to combine. Cover the pot again and continue cooking over low heat for another 25 to 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve: Once the vegetables are tender and all ingredients are cooked through, remove from heat and serve hot as a filling and savory meal perfect for any day of the week.
Notes
- For a spicier flavor, use smoked sausage with added spices or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning on the bottom of the pot.
- You can substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly different taste and added nutrients.
- If you prefer a thicker dish, reduce the amount of water used or cook uncovered for the last 10 minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
