Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet is a simple yet hearty dish that combines the smoky flavors of kielbasa sausage with the sweet tenderness of sautéed cabbage. This one-pan wonder is not only quick and easy to prepare but also offers a comforting and nutritious meal, perfect for busy weeknights. The dish’s origins can be traced back to Eastern European cuisine, where cabbage and sausage are staple ingredients. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for a more filling meal.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of kielbasa and cabbage creates a deliciously comforting meal.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a fast, weeknight dinner.
- One Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup required, as everything cooks in a single skillet.
- Healthy: Cabbage is packed with vitamins and fiber, making this dish both nutritious and hearty.
Ingredients Notes
- Kielbasa: A type of Polish sausage known for its smoky flavor. You can use any smoked sausage if kielbasa is not available.
- Cabbage: Green cabbage, sliced into thin strips, is preferred for its sweet and slightly peppery flavor when cooked.
- Onion and Garlic: Adds depth and aroma to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Seasonings: Simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or caraway seeds can be added to taste.
- Oil or Butter: For sautéing. Butter adds a rich flavor, while oil is a healthier option.
Recipe Steps
- Cook the Kielbasa: Slice the kielbasa into rounds and brown them in a large skillet with a bit of oil or butter. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more oil or butter if needed, and sauté the onion and garlic until soft and translucent.
- Add the Cabbage: Incorporate the sliced cabbage into the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and your choice of additional seasonings. Cook until the cabbage is wilted and tender.
- Combine: Return the kielbasa to the skillet, mixing it with the cabbage. Cook together for a few more minutes until everything is heated through and flavors are melded.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot, directly from the skillet.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
Quick and Delicious Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet
Ingredients
- Kielbasa: 1 lb (450g), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- Cabbage: 1 medium head, cored and thinly sliced
- Onion: 1 large, sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (optional, for added richness)
- Chicken broth or water: 1/2 cup
- Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon (for a tangy kick)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Caraway seeds: 1 teaspoon (optional, for a traditional flavor)
- Red pepper flakes: a pinch (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Brown the Kielbasa:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced kielbasa. Cook until the sausage is nicely browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the butter (if using) and onions. Sauté until the onions start to soften and turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, caraway seeds (if using), and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth or water and apple cider vinegar. Stir to mix, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the browned kielbasa to the skillet, nestling it into the cabbage. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Adjust Seasonings and Serve:
- Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Serve hot directly from the skillet.