Name: Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb smoked sausage (kielbasa or andouille), sliced; 5 cups green cabbage, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional); 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Craving something hearty but quick to make? This Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry is a rustic skillet meal that delivers comfort food vibes with minimal effort. Smoky sausage rounds mingle with tender, wilted cabbage and pops of sweet red pepper, all brought together with a sizzling sear. It hits that perfect spot between savory, slightly spicy, and deeply satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or just want to make use of what’s left in your fridge, this one-pan wonder is incredibly forgiving and endlessly adaptable. It’s rich in flavor but low on complexity, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the best results from your Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry, having the right tools makes a real difference:

Large Skillet or Wok: This is your main cooking vessel. A heavy-bottomed skillet retains heat well and helps you get a perfect sear on the sausage and caramelize the cabbage.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: Precision matters. You’ll be slicing cabbage, chopping onions, and cutting sausage – a sharp knife will speed this up and give clean cuts for even cooking.
Cutting Board: Keep your prep area organized and hygienic by using a large cutting board. Bonus points if you use separate boards for meat and vegetables.
Tongs or Wooden Spoon: You need something sturdy to toss and stir the ingredients without damaging them. Tongs are especially great for flipping sausage rounds evenly.
Measuring Spoons: If you’re balancing spices or adding heat with cayenne or paprika, measuring ensures a consistent outcome.

With these tools, you’ll breeze through the prep and cook phase with confidence and precision.

Ingredients for the Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry

Each ingredient in this recipe adds a vital element of flavor or texture to the final dish:

Smoked Sausage (Kielbasa or Andouille): This is the heart of the recipe. It brings rich, smoky depth and a touch of spice that pairs perfectly with the mild cabbage.
Green Cabbage: Cabbage softens beautifully in the skillet, soaking up all the flavors while still offering a tender crunch.
Red Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet brightness and a splash of color that balances the savory sausage.
Yellow Onion: Essential for building a flavorful base with its gentle sweetness and caramelization.
Garlic Cloves: Adds a sharp aroma and punch that elevates the other ingredients.
Olive Oil or Butter: Used to sauté the vegetables and sausage, adding richness to every bite.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance and balance the flavors.
Paprika (optional): For a smoky undertone and a pop of warm color.
Green Onions (for garnish): Fresh and vibrant, they lift the whole dish right before serving.

How To Make the Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Slice your sausage into 1/4 to 1/2-inch rounds. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil and sear the sausage until browned on both sides. This step builds flavor through caramelization. Once done, remove the sausage and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the sliced onions and cook until they begin to soften. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Veggies

Now add the chopped cabbage and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir well to coat with the oil and mix with the aromatics. Cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and starting to caramelize on the edges.

Step 4: Season and Combine

Return the browned sausage to the pan. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Stir everything together and cook for another 3–5 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot.

How to Serve and Store Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry

This dish is best enjoyed piping hot straight from the skillet, served over a bed of rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttery egg noodles. For a lighter take, pair it with a side of quinoa or even serve it as a low-carb bowl on its own.

It stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors intensify overnight, making leftovers incredibly tasty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the cabbage from getting soggy?

Avoid overcooking. Cook just until tender and slightly browned. Keeping the heat medium-high also helps evaporate moisture quickly.

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

Yes, though it has a slightly different flavor and will tint the whole dish with a purplish hue. It still tastes great!

What sausage works best for this stir fry?

Smoked kielbasa or andouille sausage offers the best flavor. You can also use turkey sausage or a plant-based option.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but you can make it spicier with a pinch of cayenne, red pepper flakes, or by choosing a hot sausage.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely. It reheats well and can even be prepped a day ahead. Cook the components separately and combine just before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Store in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni if you’re into creamy, indulgent pastas with savory sausage notes. For a twist on classic comfort food, the One-Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta delivers bold flavor in one pan.

If you’re craving more rustic, cabbage-forward meals, check out the Wendy’s Chili Recipe for a hearty bowl that pairs perfectly with cornbread. Or dive into the bold and cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole for another fast dinner fix.

Looking to keep it veggie-heavy but still satisfying? The Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup makes a great pairing or starter alongside your stir fry night.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you try this Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry, let me know how it went. Did you use kielbasa or turkey sausage? Did you toss in extra spice or keep it classic? I’d love to hear your variations.

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