Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe | Quick One-Pan Dinner with Smoky Sausage & Tender Cabbage
This Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that comes together in one pan for a quick and satisfying meal. Smoky sausage slices are seared until golden, then tossed with tender cabbage, garlic, onions, and a splash of vinegar for brightness. It’s a rustic comfort food classic—simple, nourishing, and full of bold flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you need a low-carb, veggie-forward dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Knife + cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
Protein
- 12 oz smoked sausage, kielbasa, Italian sausage, or turkey sausage (sliced)
Vegetables
- ½ head green or purple cabbage (sliced)
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (sliced)
Flavor Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or apple cider vinegar
Optional Add-ins
- 1 carrot (julienned)
- 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 zucchini (sliced)
- Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Brown sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add oil. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Cook cabbage: Add sliced cabbage. Stir frequently and cook until tender-crisp, about 8–10 minutes.
- Combine: Return sausage to the skillet. Toss with paprika, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Deglaze (optional): Add soy sauce or vinegar to lift flavorful bits from the pan. Stir well.
- Serve: Enjoy hot as-is, or pair with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Make-ahead: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water.
- Avoid mistakes: Don’t overcook cabbage, limit oil to prevent greasiness, and finish with acid for brightness.
- Variations: Add Cajun seasoning for Southern flair, Italian sausage for Mediterranean vibes, or stir in rice/quinoa for a complete meal.