Crisp-tender cabbage, savory smoked sausage with just a hint of sweetness… this Smoked Sausage Cowboy Cabbage Skillet delivers a comforting, satisfying flavor profile in every bite. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: the natural sweetness of the cabbage is enhanced by the smoky sausage, while the diced tomatoes add a touch of acidity that balances the richness. The cooking process allows the cabbage to soften without becoming mushy, creating a delightful textural contrast.
This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal on the table in under 35 minutes. It’s equally at home on a camping trip, cooked over an open fire for a truly authentic cowboy experience.
Why you’ll love this Smoked Sausage Cowboy Cabbage Skillet
- It’s a complete meal in one pan, minimizing cleanup.
- This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
- Ready in under 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- The combination of smoked sausage cowboy cabbage creates a uniquely delicious flavor.
- It’s a budget-friendly way to feed a crowd.
- It is a hearty dish that provides a filling and satisfying meal.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked beef sausage, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Smoked sausage cowboy cabbage makes every moment feel indulgent. Substitutions: For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage. You can also substitute the green and red bell peppers with other vegetables like carrots or celery. For a gluten-free version, ensure your smoked beef sausage and other ingredients are gluten-free.
How to make Smoked Sausage Cowboy Cabbage Skillet
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked beef sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook until it begins to wilt, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir well to combine. Season with salt to taste.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Chef’s Tip: Don’t overcook the cabbage, you want it to be tender-crisp.
Step 5: Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If necessary, cook the sausage in batches to ensure proper browning.
- Shred the cabbage thinly for even cooking.
- Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Taste and add more salt, pepper, or smoked paprika as needed.
- For a richer flavor, use a good quality smoked beef sausage.
Serving Suggestions
This Smoked Sausage Cowboy Cabbage Skillet is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with cornbread or a side salad. For a heartier meal, serve it over rice or mashed potatoes. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra flavor. And if you are looking for another simple dish, then check out this Parmesan crusted chicken recipe. For dessert, try this easy mini apple pies recipe that is sure to impress!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the Smoked Sausage Cowboy Cabbage Skillet. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is this dish spicy?
This recipe is not inherently spicy. However, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to add some heat.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
While smoked beef sausage is recommended for the best flavor, you can substitute it with other types of sausage, such as turkey sausage or plant-based sausage, depending on your preference.
In conclusion, this Smoked Sausage Cowboy Cabbage skillet is a versatile and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a camping adventure. With its blend of savory smoked sausage, tender cabbage, and simple seasonings, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and spices to create your own unique version of this hearty and satisfying dish. What are you waiting for? Give this easy smoked sausage cowboy cabbage recipe a try tonight!
Smoked Sausage Cowboy Cabbage Skillet
This Smoked Sausage Cowboy Cabbage Skillet is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a camping trip. Tender cabbage, savory smoked sausage, and a blend of seasonings come together in a delicious and satisfying dish. It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and spices for a truly unique meal. The combination of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors will have everyone asking for seconds. This dish is guaranteed to become a new family favorite! Ready in under 35 minutes, it’s a simple and delicious way to get a healthy and satisfying meal on the table fast.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked beef sausage, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked beef sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook until it begins to wilt, about 5 minutes.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir well to combine. Season with salt to taste.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn to the skillet. Serve with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 45mg