I remember the days when I’d rush home after school, a quiet, anxious kid, and find solace in the kitchen. Now, as Clara from Cooking Inspired, I want to share that same comfort and creativity with you. Let’s dive into a dish that’s as easy as it is satisfying: my Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry. It’s a flavorful, fuss-free meal that’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious on the table, fast. This recipe is a guaranteed family favorite, packed with savory goodness that everyone will love!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry
- Quick to Make: This dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of savory sausage and sweet cabbage creates a delicious and satisfying flavor profile.
- Budget-Friendly: Using simple, affordable ingredients means you can feed your family without breaking the bank.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry!
What Makes This Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry So Good?
There’s something magical about the pairing of cabbage and sausage. The slight sweetness of the cabbage perfectly complements the savory, smoky flavor of the sausage. The textures, too, work wonderfully together, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s a simple combination that delivers big on flavor, making it a go-to meal for families everywhere.
Ingredients for Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry
- 1 lb smoked beef bacon smoked sausage
- 1 1/2 tbsps olive oil, divided
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium head cabbage, cored and chopped into 1-inch pieces ((about 2 lbs))
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp beef broth
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Ingredient Sourcing
Finding the right sausage can really elevate this dish. I like to use a good quality smoked beef bacon smoked sausage for the best flavor, but you can experiment with different types. If you can find it, I highly recommend trying the smoked sausage from a local butcher shop. If that’s not available, a good brand of smoked sausage from your local grocery store will work just fine.
Equipment Recommendations
To make this stir fry as easy as possible, a good skillet is essential. I personally love using my Lodge cast iron skillet; it heats evenly and gives the sausage a beautiful sear. A Dutch oven also works great, especially if you’re making a larger batch.
How to Shred Cabbage
- Start by removing any outer leaves that look wilted or damaged.
- Cut the cabbage in half through the core.
- Place one half cut-side down on a cutting board, and slice thinly across the width to create shreds.
- Repeat with the other half, or consider preparing oven roasted garlic cabbage steaks for a different approach to cooking cabbage.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry
Step 1: Halve the smoked beef bacon lengthwise and then slice it into 1/2-inch pieces. Heat a large deep skillet or dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon oil and the smoked beef bacon. Toss to coat and then cook until browned, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer the smoked beef bacon to a plate.
Process Photo: Smoked beef bacon in skillet cooking.
Step 2: Return the pan to the stove and reduce the heat to medium low. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and the onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened. Add the garlic, cabbage, salt, and pepper. Toss well to combine. Cover and cook, stirring every 4-5 minutes until the cabbage is wilted, about 12 minutes.
Process Photo: Cabbage and onions cooking in the skillet.
Step 3: Stir in the beef broth and apple cider vinegar and return the smoked beef bacon to the pot. Stir and cover for about 3 more minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the smoked beef bacon is hot. Taste and add salt, if needed. Enjoy!
Process Photo: Final stir fry with sausage and cabbage mixed together.
Spice Level Customization
Want to kick things up a notch? I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stir fry while the cabbage is cooking. You could also add a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce just before serving. Start with a small amount and adjust to your liking; you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
Variations of Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Low-carb/Keto Version | Suggest using cauliflower rice or omitting certain ingredients like beef broth. |
| Vegetarian/Vegan Version | Use tofu or plant-based sausage alternatives. |
| Add Other Vegetables | Include carrots, bell peppers, or other vegetables for added flavor and nutrition. |
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Cabbage is too soggy: Make sure you’re not overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if necessary. Also, don’t overcook the cabbage; it should be tender but still have a little bit of bite.
- Sausage is burning: Keep the heat at medium and stir frequently to prevent the sausage from burning.
- Dish is bland: Don’t be afraid to add more salt and pepper to taste. A little extra apple cider vinegar can also brighten up the flavors.
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can definitely prep some of the ingredients ahead of time to save even more time on busy weeknights. Chop the onion and cabbage, mince the garlic, and slice the sausage. Store each ingredient separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should last for up to 2 days.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply heat a skillet over medium heat and add the stir fry. Cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the texture might be a little softer. I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the cabbage can become mushy.
Nutritional Information
(Detailed nutritional information for the recipe, including calories, fat, protein, carbs, etc.)
Serving Suggestions
This stir fry is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of rice or mashed potatoes. For a low-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice. If you’re looking for another light and flavorful cabbage dish, our Green Goddess Cabbage Salad is a great choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of sausage goes with cabbage? Smoked sausage, kielbasa, and Italian sausage all pair well with cabbage.
- What can I add to cabbage for flavor? Apple cider vinegar, beef broth, garlic, and onions all add great flavor to cabbage.
- Is cabbage and sausage keto friendly? It can be, especially if you use a low-carb sausage and omit the beef broth.
- How long does cabbage and sausage last in the fridge? About 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Amazing Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Halve the smoked beef bacon lengthwise and then slice it into 1/2-inch pieces. Heat a large deep skillet or dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon oil and the smoked beef bacon. Toss to coat and then cook until browned, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer the smoked beef bacon to a plate.
- Return the pan to the stove and reduce the heat to medium low. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and the onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened. Add the garlic, cabbage, salt, and pepper. Toss well to combine. Cover and cook, stirring every 4-5 minutes until the cabbage is wilted, about 12 minutes.
- Stir in the beef broth and apple cider vinegar and return the smoked beef bacon to the pot. Stir and cover for about 3 more minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the smoked beef bacon is hot. Taste and add salt, if needed. Enjoy!
Notes
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy this Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry as much as I do! It’s a simple, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights and sure to become a family favorite. Now, I’d love to hear from you! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Happy cooking, friend!
