If you’re looking for a meal that strikes the perfect balance between savory, sweet, and a little bit tangy, then you’re going to love this Sausage, Cabbage, and Apple Skillet Recipe. It’s packed with the smoky richness of sausage, the satisfying crunch of cabbage, and the subtle sweetness from fresh apples—all coming together in one skillet for a comforting, hearty dish that comes together in under 40 minutes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal, this recipe is a keeper that feels both homely and special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, keeping things simple but bursting with flavor. The sausage brings smoky depth, while cabbage adds a fresh, crisp texture. Apples introduce a natural sweetness that cuts through the savory notes, and the blend of seasonings ties everything together beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps crisp up the sausage and gently sauté the veggies without overpowering their flavors.
- 1 pound Kielbasa (or smoked sausage, sliced ½ inch thick): Adds smoky, robust flavor and a meaty heartiness to the dish.
- 1 medium yellow onion (thinly sliced): Brings a mild sweetness and aromatic depth.
- 6 cups chopped green cabbage (about ½ medium head): Provides crunch and subtle earthiness while soaking up all the delicious juices.
- 2 medium apples (cored and sliced, peeling optional): Their natural sweetness balances the savory sausage and tangy vinegar.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and helps create a flavorful sauce.
- ¼ cup apple juice (or apple cider, not vinegar): Enhances the apple’s flavor and adds a bright fruitiness.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Lends a gentle tang and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity to brighten the dish and round out the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves (or 2 sprigs fresh thyme): Infuses subtle herbal notes.
- ¼ teaspoon salt (more to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and warmth.
How to Make Sausage, Cabbage, and Apple Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the kielbasa slices and allow them to cook undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes, so they get a beautiful golden brown crust. This browning step is crucial because it deepens the flavor and adds a satisfying chew. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Cabbage
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and chopped cabbage. If the skillet feels dry, drizzle in a little extra olive oil. Stir occasionally, letting the onion soften and the cabbage begin to wilt gently. This process takes around 5 to 6 minutes and is where the vegetables start releasing their natural sweetness while getting tender but still retaining a bit of crunch.
Step 3: Add the Apples
Next, toss in the sliced apples. Cook and stir for another 3 to 4 minutes until they become just tender but still hold their shape. The apples add a surprising burst of juicy sweetness that complements the savoriness perfectly. It’s this contrast that makes the Sausage, Cabbage, and Apple Skillet Recipe so delightful and unique.
Step 4: Mix the Sauce and Combine
While the apples are cooking, whisk together the chicken broth, apple juice, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour this vibrant mixture over the cabbage and apples, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Add the browned sausage back into the skillet, folding everything together to marry the flavors.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Let the whole skillet cook uncovered for about 5 minutes. During this time, the cabbage will soften fully, and the liquid will reduce slightly, creating a luscious, lightly saucy finish. This final simmer lets all the flavors deepen and mingle, making every bite a treat.
How to Serve Sausage, Cabbage, and Apple Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, consider fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme leaves for a burst of color and herbal freshness. A light drizzle of extra apple cider vinegar can also brighten the flavors further right before serving.
Side Dishes
This skillet is quite hearty on its own but can be paired beautifully with warm crusty bread to soak up the juices or a simple steamed rice or mashed potatoes for extra comfort. Roasted root vegetables also make a great side, adding variety in texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Sausage, Cabbage, and Apple Skillet Recipe in rustic individual cast iron skillets or over a bed of creamy polenta. It also makes a fantastic filling for savory crepes or as a topping on baked sweet potatoes for a nutritious twist on leftovers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The dish stays fresh for up to three days, making it a perfect meal to prep in advance for quick lunches or dinners during the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish even longer, freezing works well. Pack it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and store for up to two months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it looks dry, to revive the moisture and flavor. You can also microwave it covered, stirring halfway through, until warmed through and piping hot for serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Kielbasa or smoked sausage is recommended for its smoky flavor, you can substitute with Italian sausage, bratwurst, or any sausage you love. Just make sure it’s pre-cooked or fully cooked during the skillet steps to ensure safety and flavor.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is optional. The skin adds texture and extra nutrients, but if you prefer a softer bite or want a smoother texture, feel free to peel them before slicing.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives or hearty mushrooms like cremini or portobello sautéed with smoked paprika to mimic the smoky notes. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth as well.
What type of apple works best here?
Choose firm apples that hold their shape when cooked, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Their sweetness balances the cabbage and sausage nicely without getting mushy.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! Slicing the cabbage, onion, and apples ahead saves time on cooking day. You can even brown the sausage in advance and store everything separately in the fridge until ready to assemble and cook.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage, Cabbage, and Apple Skillet Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes when I want something satisfying, flavorful, and easy to throw together. It’s charming in its simplicity but rewarding in taste, blending smoky, sweet, and tangy notes that make every bite memorable. Give it a try soon—you’ll be glad you did!
Print
Sausage, Cabbage, and Apple Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful sausage, cabbage, and apple skillet dish that combines smoky Kielbasa with tender cabbage and sweet-tart apples, all cooked together in a savory sauce featuring Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that comes together in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Kielbasa (or smoked sausage, sliced ½ inch thick)
- 1 medium yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 6 cups chopped green cabbage (about ½ medium head of cabbage)
- 2 medium apples (cored and sliced, peeling optional)
For the Sauce
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup apple juice (or apple cider, not vinegar)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves (or 2 sprigs fresh thyme)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (more to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Kielbasa and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté onion and cabbage: In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onion and chopped green cabbage. Add more oil if needed. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften.
- Cook the apples: Stir in the sliced apples and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the apples are just tender but still hold their shape.
- Prepare and add the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, apple juice, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the cabbage, onion, and apple in the skillet.
- Combine sausage and veggies: Return the browned sausage to the skillet and stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer to finish: Cook uncovered for 5 minutes over medium heat or until the cabbage is tender and the liquid has slightly reduced, allowing flavors to meld together.
Notes
- Use smoked sausage variants if Kielbasa is unavailable.
- Peeling the apples is optional; leaving the peel adds extra texture and nutrients.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste.
- Apple juice can be substituted with apple cider for a richer flavor, but avoid apple cider vinegar other than what is specified.
- This dish can be served on its own for a low-carb meal or as a side to mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
