Quick and Delicious Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet

Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet is a simple yet hearty dish that combines the smoky flavors of kielbasa sausage with the sweet tenderness of sautéed cabbage. This one-pan wonder is not only quick and easy to prepare but also offers a comforting and nutritious meal, perfect for busy weeknights. The dish’s origins can be traced back to Eastern European cuisine, where cabbage and sausage are staple ingredients. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for a more filling meal.
MORE OF OUR FAVORITE…
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of kielbasa and cabbage creates a deliciously comforting meal.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a fast, weeknight dinner.
- One Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup required, as everything cooks in a single skillet.
- Healthy: Cabbage is packed with vitamins and fiber, making this dish both nutritious and hearty.
Ingredients Notes
- Kielbasa: A type of Polish sausage known for its smoky flavor. You can use any smoked sausage if kielbasa is not available.
- Cabbage: Green cabbage, sliced into thin strips, is preferred for its sweet and slightly peppery flavor when cooked.
- Onion and Garlic: Adds depth and aroma to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Seasonings: Simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or caraway seeds can be added to taste.
- Oil or Butter: For sautéing. Butter adds a rich flavor, while oil is a healthier option.
Recipe Steps
- Cook the Kielbasa: Slice the kielbasa into rounds and brown them in a large skillet with a bit of oil or butter. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more oil or butter if needed, and sauté the onion and garlic until soft and translucent.
- Add the Cabbage: Incorporate the sliced cabbage into the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and your choice of additional seasonings. Cook until the cabbage is wilted and tender.
- Combine: Return the kielbasa to the skillet, mixing it with the cabbage. Cook together for a few more minutes until everything is heated through and flavors are melded.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot, directly from the skillet.
[pinterest-image message=”Enjoy a hearty meal with Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet, a flavorful combination of tender cabbage and smoky kielbasa, cooked to perfection.” image=”https://charmrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Cabbage-and-Kielbasa-Skillet.png”]
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.

Quick and Delicious Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet
Rate This Yum Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook PrintIngredients
- Kielbasa: 1 lb 450g, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- Cabbage: 1 medium head cored and thinly sliced
- Onion: 1 large sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves minced
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons optional, for added richness
- Chicken broth or water: 1/2 cup
- Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon for a tangy kick
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Caraway seeds: 1 teaspoon optional, for a traditional flavor
- Red pepper flakes: a pinch optional, for heat
Instructions
Brown the Kielbasa:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced kielbasa. Cook until the sausage is nicely browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the butter (if using) and onions. Sauté until the onions start to soften and turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, caraway seeds (if using), and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth or water and apple cider vinegar. Stir to mix, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Combine and Simmer:
- Return the browned kielbasa to the skillet, nestling it into the cabbage. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Adjust Seasonings and Serve:
- Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Serve hot directly from the skillet.
Featured Comments
“Super easy and will make again! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“This lighter recipe was family favorite — the hearty really stands out. Thanks!”
“Made this last night and it was will make again. Loved how the fizzy came together.”
“This vibrant recipe was absolutely loved — the shareable really stands out. Thanks!”
“Made this last night and it was will make again. Loved how the vibrant came together.”
“Made this last night and it was family favorite. Loved how the plant-powered came together.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and family favorite results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“Super easy and family favorite! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“Made this last night and it was turned out amazing. Loved how the comforting came together.”
“Super easy and so flavorful! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”