This one-pan dish combines hearty cabbage, savory sausage, and melty cheese for a comforting and easy weeknight dinner. With minimal prep and a rich blend of flavors, it’s sure to be a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
- Choice of Sausage: For this recipe, smoked sausage or kielbasa works best due to their robust flavor. You can also use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner option. Slice the sausage into rounds, about ½ inch thick. This will allow the sausage to get crispy edges when it’s cooked.
- Browning the Sausage: In your large skillet, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced sausage. Let it sit for a few moments before flipping to achieve even browning. The caramelization adds a deep, smoky flavor to the dish. You should cook the sausage for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Onions: Add the diced onion to the skillet, directly after removing the sausage. Sautéing onions in the same pan will soak up all the flavorful bits left behind from the sausage. Continue cooking for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. You’ll notice the savory aroma from the sausage mixes with the sweetness of the onions.
- Garlic: Add the minced garlic once the onions are softened and cook for about 30 seconds. Garlic burns quickly, so be careful not to let it brown. Stir it in until fragrant, releasing its aroma into the air.
3. Cook the Cabbage:
- Add Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Cabbage will begin to soften and release moisture. Let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still has a bit of crunch.
- Flavor Profile: The cabbage will start to caramelize and pick up the flavor of the sausage, making it incredibly savory and delicious.
4. Combine Everything:
- Return Sausage to the Skillet: Once the cabbage is tender, return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Stir it in with the cabbage, allowing the flavors to meld together. This step brings back that delicious smoky sausage flavor throughout the dish.
5. Add Cheese and Melt:
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the sausage and cabbage mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid to allow the cheese to melt for 2-3 minutes. The cheese will become gooey and pull everything together into one delicious, cheesy skillet.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, give the skillet a final stir and serve immediately. You can garnish with extra red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, or green onions for added flavor and color if you prefer.
Tips:
- Sausage Variety: Feel free to use any sausage that suits your taste. Italian sausage or even chicken sausage will work well for a lighter alternative.
- Cabbage Cooking Tip: If you prefer softer cabbage, cook it a little longer, but be careful not to overcook it, or it may lose its texture.
- Heat Level: The red pepper flakes are optional, but they do add a nice kick. Adjust the amount depending on your spice preference.
This Cheesy Cabbage & Sausage Skillet is a quick, comforting, and flavorful meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight or whenever you’re craving something savory and cheesy!