Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet
There’s nothing like a meal that comes together quickly, tastes delicious, and brings the whole family to the table. This Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet has become one of those go-to recipes in our household. I first made this dish on a busy weekday evening when my fridge was nearly empty, and I needed to whip up something hearty and satisfying. I found a head of cabbage, a few kielbasa sausages, and an onion, and thought, “Why not?”
As the sausage browned and the onions caramelized, the house filled with the most comforting aroma. My kids wandered into the kitchen, noses twitching and eyes wide with curiosity. The combination of smoky kielbasa, tender cabbage, and sweet onion was a hit with everyone—even my picky eater asked for seconds! It’s one of those meals that’s incredibly simple but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
What I love about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can add potatoes for a heartier version, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or even a dash of mustard for extra tang. It’s budget-friendly, quick, and uses ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether it’s a busy school night or a lazy Sunday, this skillet recipe always delivers comfort and joy. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both effortless and satisfying, this is it. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become a regular in your home too!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:
Can I use a different sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa adds a wonderful smoky flavor, you can use smoked sausage, chorizo, or even Italian sausage if that’s what you have on hand.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It tastes even better the next day!
What can I serve with this dish?
This skillet goes great with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or even over rice for a complete meal.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Bell peppers, carrots, or even shredded Brussels sprouts make great additions.
What You Need to Make Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet:
1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
1 small head of cabbage, thinly sliced
1 onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Red pepper flakes or garlic, for extra flavor
Equipment:
Large skillet or frying pan
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon or spatula
How to Make Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet:
Prepare the ingredients: Slice the kielbasa into rounds, thinly slice the cabbage, and slice the onion.
Cook the kielbasa: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sliced kielbasa. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sausage is browned and crispy on the edges. Remove the kielbasa and set it aside.
Saute the onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and caramelize.
Add the cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
Combine everything: Return the kielbasa to the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and let the flavors meld.
Serve hot: Enjoy your delicious Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet immediately!
Tips:
Brown the kielbasa well: Let the sausage develop a nice golden crust for extra flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the cabbage and onions enough room to cook evenly.
Add garlic or spices: A clove of minced garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish.
Try different sausages: Experiment with smoked sausage, bratwurst, or chorizo for variety.
Make it a full meal: Add potatoes or serve it over rice for a heartier dish.
Latest Reviews:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This recipe saved my weeknight! It was quick, easy, and my family loved it. Will definitely make it again!” – Laura B.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Really tasty and simple to make. I added a bit of garlic and red pepper flakes for extra kick. Perfect comfort food.” – Mike D.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Even my picky kids ate this! The kielbasa adds so much flavor. A great way to use up cabbage.” – Sarah P.
⭐⭐⭐ “Good recipe! Next time, I’ll try adding some potatoes to make it more filling.” – Karen L.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Delicious, quick, and budget-friendly. Just what I needed on a busy weeknight!” – Jessie F.
Printable Recipe:
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Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet
This easy Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet is the perfect weeknight meal. With smoky kielbasa, tender cabbage, and caramelized onions, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes. Quick, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 small head of cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes or garlic, for extra flavor
- Equipment:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Slice the kielbasa into rounds, thinly slice the cabbage, and slice the onion.
- Cook the kielbasa: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sliced kielbasa. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sausage is browned and crispy on the edges. Remove the kielbasa and set it aside.
- Saute the onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and caramelize.
- Add the cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
- Combine everything: Return the kielbasa to the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and let the flavors meld.
- Serve hot: Enjoy your delicious Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet immediately!
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