Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet is a hearty and flavorful one-pan dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The savory kielbasa pairs beautifully with tender cabbage, onions, and garlic, creating a comforting and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. This budget-friendly recipe is a great way to use simple ingredients for a delicious meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 lb kielbasa (or smoked sausage), sliced into rounds
• 1 medium green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for a tangy kick)
• ½ cup chicken broth or water
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for tangy depth
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat
• 2 medium carrots, thinly sliced for added color and flavor

For Serving:

• Crusty bread or dinner rolls
• Mashed potatoes or rice

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Kielbasa

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced kielbasa and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the sausage is browned and crispy around the edges. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Onions and Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil (if needed) and sauté the onions for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage

1. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
2. Season with smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften and slightly caramelize.

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer

1. Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and apple cider vinegar. Stir to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
2. Cover the skillet and let the cabbage simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender but still has some texture.

Step 5: Combine the Kielbasa and Cabbage

1. Return the cooked kielbasa to the skillet and toss to combine with the cabbage.
2. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the kielbasa through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
2. Serve the Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet hot, paired with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.

Cooking Notes

• Cabbage: Green cabbage works best for this recipe, but you can also use red cabbage for a pop of color or even savoy cabbage for a softer texture.
• Kielbasa: Smoked kielbasa adds a rich, savory flavor, but you can substitute it with any smoked sausage or even turkey sausage for a leaner option.

Variations

1. Kielbasa and Cabbage with Potatoes

Add 1-2 medium potatoes, diced, to the skillet along with the cabbage. The potatoes will absorb the flavors and make the dish even heartier.

2. Spicy Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet

For a spicy kick, add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or use spicy kielbasa. You can also drizzle a bit of sriracha or hot sauce over the dish before serving.

3. Creamy Cabbage and Kielbasa

For a creamier version, stir in ¼ cup of sour cream or heavy cream at the end of cooking. This adds richness and pairs beautifully with the smoky kielbasa.

4. Keto Cabbage and Kielbasa

This recipe is naturally low-carb, making it perfect for a keto diet. Serve with cauliflower rice or simply enjoy as is for a satisfying keto-friendly meal.

Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments

This dish is already keto-friendly! Simply ensure your kielbasa or sausage is low in carbs and free of added sugars. Pair the dish with cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own for a wholesome, low-carb meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet ahead of time?
Yes! This dish reheats beautifully. You can make it up to 1 day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or in the microwave until hot.

Q: Can I freeze Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet?
Yes! You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Q: Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Yes! Red cabbage adds a slightly different flavor and a vibrant color to the dish. It cooks similarly to green cabbage, so no adjustments are necessary.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.

This Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet is a simple, one-pan meal that delivers big flavors. The combination of savory kielbasa and tender cabbage, along with garlic and onions, makes for a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Customize it with your favorite spices and vegetables for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make and budget-friendly.