Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry (30-Minutes)

Quick, hearty, and full of flavor — this easy sausage and cabbage stir fry is your new go-to meal for busy weeknights.

If you’ve ever found yourself staring into the fridge wondering what to do with a head of cabbage and a pack of sausage — you’re not alone. This easy sausage and cabbage stir fry (30-minutes) is the perfect answer to that question. It’s fast, simple, budget-friendly, and packed with comforting flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family of four or meal-prepping for the week, this dish ticks all the boxes: it’s satisfying, low-effort, and adaptable to whatever you have on hand.

Let’s dive into this deliciously easy dish and discover how it can become a weeknight staple.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry

There are many reasons to love this dish, but here are just a few that stand out:

• Speed: Ready in 30 minutes from start to finish.
• One-pan wonder: Minimal dishes to clean up.
• Flavor-packed: Thanks to smoked sausage, garlic, soy sauce, and a pop of vinegar or lemon juice.
• Healthy(ish): Cabbage is full of fiber and nutrients, and you can control the amount of oil and sodium.
• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, easily accessible ingredients.
• Versatile: Add rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own.

This easy sausage and cabbage stir fry is a shining example of how simplicity often leads to the most satisfying meals.

Ingredients Breakdown: What You’ll Need

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this stir fry so irresistible:

1 lb Smoked Sausage or Kielbasa, Sliced

The heart of the dish. Use smoked sausage for deep, savory flavor, or go with kielbasa for that classic Eastern European flair. Chicken sausage or turkey sausage can also work for a lighter option.

1 Tablespoon Olive Oil

Adds a smooth richness and helps sauté the vegetables. You can substitute with avocado oil, canola oil, or any neutral oil of your choice.

1 Small Onion, Sliced

Brings a natural sweetness and depth. Red, yellow, or white onions all work well.

2–3 Garlic Cloves, Minced

Because garlic makes everything better. Adds aroma and a little bite.

1/2 Head Green Cabbage, Thinly Sliced

The star vegetable. Crisp, sweet, and full of fiber, green cabbage holds its texture well when stir-fried.

1–2 Carrots, Julienne or Sliced (Optional)

Adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness. Great for added nutrition and texture.

1 Tablespoon Soy Sauce (or to taste)

Umami-rich flavor enhancer. Use low-sodium if preferred.

1 Teaspoon Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice

Adds brightness to balance the richness of the sausage.

Salt and Black Pepper, to Taste

Simple but essential seasonings. Always taste and adjust.

Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)

For those who like a little heat. Add according to your spice preference.

How to Make Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry (Step-by-Step)

This easy sausage and cabbage stir fry comes together in just five simple steps. Let’s break it down:

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage slices in a single layer and cook until browned and caramelized, about 5–6 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give the sausage space to brown properly for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add olive oil and the sliced onions. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds — just enough to release its aroma.

Step 3: Add Cabbage and Carrots

Now, add your thinly sliced green cabbage (and carrots if using). Stir well to coat the vegetables in the oil and aromatics. Let them cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still has a slight bite.

Step 4: Season and Combine

Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Add in the soy sauce, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Taste and Finish

Do a final taste test. Add red pepper flakes if you want a kick. Adjust salt, pepper, or soy sauce to your liking. Serve hot, either on its own or over rice or noodles.

Variations on Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can tweak it in dozens of ways to suit your taste, pantry, or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

1. Add More Veggies

• Bell peppers
• Mushrooms
• Zucchini
• Snap peas

These all cook quickly and pair beautifully with cabbage and sausage.

2. Make it Low-Carb or Keto

This dish is naturally low in carbs, but to make it even more keto-friendly, skip the carrots and soy sauce (replace with coconut aminos).

3. Add Grains or Noodles

If you’re craving carbs, this stir fry is amazing over:

• Steamed white or brown rice
• Quinoa
• Egg noodles
• Ramen (for a fun twist)

4. Change the Protein

Don’t have sausage? No problem.

• Use bacon, ground pork, or leftover rotisserie chicken.
• Tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
• Shrimp for a seafood spin.

5. Spice it Up

Try adding:

• Chili oil
• Sriracha
• Cajun seasoning
• Gochujang (Korean chili paste)

These can seriously level up your easy sausage and cabbage stir fry.

What to Serve with Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry

This dish is a meal on its own, but here are a few sides and drinks to round out your dinner:

Perfect Sides

• Garlic butter toast
• Roasted potatoes
• Steamed jasmine rice
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette

Drinks That Pair Well

• Light beer
• Dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
• Iced green tea
• Lemon water with herbs

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This dish is ideal for meal prepping. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until hot.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 2 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tip: For best texture, reheat on the stove rather than microwave.

Health Benefits of Cabbage and Sausage Stir Fry

While sausage may not be the healthiest protein, pairing it with cabbage and optional vegetables brings some balance. Cabbage is low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in vitamins C and K. It’s also linked to anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

Smoked sausage adds protein and depth of flavor — just use it in moderation or swap for a leaner variety. This dish is a smart compromise between comfort food and nutrition.

Make It a Weekly Go-To Meal

Once you try this easy sausage and cabbage stir fry, don’t be surprised if it ends up in your weekly rotation. It’s one of those dishes that’s simple enough for a Tuesday, but delicious enough to serve to guests. Just double the batch, add some crusty bread, and you’re good to go.

It’s also perfect for those nights when you want something fast, filling, and not boring. Plus, it’s just fun to make — especially when you hear that satisfying sizzle when the sausage hits the pan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! It stores beautifully in the fridge and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

Absolutely. Red cabbage will add a slightly earthier flavor and a splash of color.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes — just make sure your sausage and soy sauce are gluten-free (or use tamari instead).

Can I make this vegetarian?

You sure can. Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or tofu, and follow the same cooking steps.

What kind of sausage works best?

Smoked sausage, kielbasa, andouille, or even Italian sausage all work. Use your favorite!

Can I make it spicy?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes, chili oil, or a splash of sriracha for some heat.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Weeknight Dinner

There’s something deeply comforting about the combination of smoky sausage, tender cabbage, and garlicky onions all tossed in a flavorful skillet. This easy sausage and cabbage stir fry (30-minutes) is everything we love about home cooking — fast, delicious, satisfying, and adaptable.

It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or a complicated recipe to put a great meal on the table. Whether you’re feeding your family or just cooking for one, this dish is bound to become a favorite. So grab your skillet and give it a try — you’ll be hooked from the first bite.

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