# Cabbage and Sausage: A Quick One-Pan Meal
This cabbage and sausage dish is a tasty one-pan meal that is easy to make and tremendously filling. Featuring smoked sausage, chopped cabbage, and grated carrots, this recipe is simmered in a savory broth that offers warmth and comfort, making it ideal for any midweek dinner.
## Flavor Profile
The mix of smoky sausage and caramelized cabbage creates a comforting flavor pairing that is hard to ignore. This meal is made to be both filling and tasty, ensuring that it will satisfy even the most selective eaters.
## Skill Level
This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks, as it includes simple preparation steps that make it easy to feel like a chef in the kitchen.
## Budget-Friendly
Using economical ingredients that you probably already have at home, this recipe is a fantastic way to maximize your grocery budget. Also, feel free to toss in any leftover vegetables from your fridge to further enhance the dish.
## Serving Suggestions
This crowd-favorite can be kept warm in a slow cooker, enabling guests to serve themselves. Serve it alongside a slice of Irish soda bread for a complete meal that is bound to impress.
## Key Ingredients and Simple Variations
– **Cabbage**: Green cabbage is suggested, but savoy or napa cabbage can be substituted for a softer texture. Choose firm heads and discard any blemished leaves.
– **Sausage**: Pre-cooked smoked sausage, Polish kielbasa, or summer sausage are great options that save time. Cook until they brown for extra flavor.
– **Seasonings**: Basic pantry essentials will do, but you might want to add red pepper flakes for a kick.
– **Variations**: To extend the meal, stir in cooked egg noodles, or replace it with rotisserie chicken or shrimp. For a faster version, add frozen meatballs directly in Step 1 without thawing.
## How to Prepare Cabbage and Sausage
1. **Brown the Sausage**: In a large nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. **Cook the Aromatics**: Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until slightly softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
3. **Add the Vegetables**: Mix in the chopped cabbage, broth, carrot (if using), vinegar, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to soften, about 15 minutes.
4. **Combine and Finish**: Remove the lid from the skillet, return the sausage, and stir to combine. Cook for another 5 to 10 minutes until the liquid reduces and the cabbage is tender.
5. **Serve**: Season to taste and savor your meal.
## Storing Leftovers
Leftover cabbage and sausage can be kept in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or freeze in zippered bags for up to 3 months.
## Nutrition Information (per serving)
– **Calories**: 448
– **Carbohydrates**: 21g
– **Protein**: 18g
– **Fat**: 33g
– **Saturated Fat**: 12g
– **Cholesterol**: 89mg
– **Sodium**: 1491mg
– **Potassium**: 714mg
– **Fiber**: 7g
– **Sugar**: 9g
– **Vitamin A**: 2922 IU
– **Vitamin C**: 87mg
– **Calcium**: 118mg
– **Iron**: 2mg
This recipe is a superb way to enjoy a fulfilling meal with minimal effort, making it a go-to option for hectic weeknights. Relish the comforting flavors of cabbage and sausage any evening of the week!