Cabbage, Potato, and Sausage Skillet Recipe

Cabbage, Potato, and Sausage Skillet Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

This hearty and flavorful dish combines precooked apple chicken sausage with golden potatoes, tender cabbage, and a touch of seasoning. Perfect for a satisfying meal, it's both delicious and easy to prepare!

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided, or as needed
  • 12 ounces precooked apple chicken sausage links, cut into 1/2-inch thick pieces (such as Trader Joes)
  • 1 1/2 pounds bite-sized potatoes, unpeeled and quartered
  • 1 onion, halved and sliced
  • 1/3 cup chicken broth
  • 5 cups coarsely chopped cabbage
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Add the sausage to the skillet and cook, flipping occasionally, until lightly browned on both sides, about 5 to 8 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, heat the remaining oil. Add the potatoes and onions, stirring occasionally, and cook until the potatoes start to brown lightly, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth, then cover the skillet. Let the potatoes cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 12 to 17 minutes.

Step 5: Add the chopped cabbage, garlic powder, and paprika to the skillet. Stir everything well, then cook for another 6 to 8 minutes until the cabbage becomes soft and tender.

Step 6: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and heat through, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 7: Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve and enjoy!

Cooks Notes

  • For variation, you can try using different types of precooked sausages.
  • You can substitute the potatoes with other types, just be sure to cube them small to ensure they cook properly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient Amount % Daily Value
Calories 378
Total Fat 16g 20%
Saturated Fat 3g 14%
Cholesterol 63mg 21%
Sodium 599mg 26%
Total Carbohydrate 40g 14%
Dietary Fiber 6g 22%
Total Sugars 7g
Protein 22g 44%
Vitamin C 71mg 79%
Calcium 114mg 9%
Iron 3mg 16%
Potassium 1273mg 27%

Note: The percent daily values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Cabbage, Potato, and Sausage Skillet

The Cabbage, Potato, and Sausage Skillet is a classic example of hearty American comfort food, with roots tracing back to the early European immigrants who settled in the United States. Many of these settlers, particularly from Germany, Poland, and Ireland, brought with them traditions of cooking simple, filling meals using locally available ingredients. Cabbage and potatoes were inexpensive and widely accessible staples, while sausages provided protein and flavor. Over time, these ingredients were combined into skillet dishes that could be prepared quickly and enjoyed as family meals.

Regional Variations

This dish has several regional twists across the United States. In the Midwest, it is often made with smoked or bratwurst-style sausages and sometimes includes a dash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess. In the Northeast, kielbasa or other Eastern European sausages are common, and the dish may incorporate onions caramelized in butter. Some Southern versions add a touch of paprika or hot sauce to give the skillet a spicier kick. Despite these variations, the combination of cabbage, potatoes, and sausage remains the comforting core.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While this skillet shares similarities with dishes like colcannon (Irish mashed potatoes with cabbage) or German sauerkraut and sausage preparations, it stands out because it is cooked entirely in a single skillet, allowing the flavors to meld while maintaining the texture of each ingredient. Unlike mashed or stewed versions, this recipe keeps the potatoes slightly crisp and the cabbage tender, giving a perfect balance of softness and bite in every forkful. The inclusion of paprika and garlic powder also gives it a subtly smoky and aromatic profile that sets it apart.

Typical Serving Occasions

This skillet is most often served as a main course for dinner, particularly in casual family settings. It is a popular choice for weeknight meals due to its simplicity and speed of preparation. It also appears frequently at potlucks or holiday gatherings where comfort food is welcome. Pairing it with crusty bread or a side of pickles can enhance the meal, making it satisfying for a wide range of palates.

Interesting Facts

  • Though often considered an American dish, the combination of sausage, potatoes, and cabbage reflects centuries-old European cooking traditions.
  • Using precooked sausages dramatically reduces cooking time, a practical adaptation from modern busy lifestyles.
  • The dish is naturally versatile: it can be made vegetarian by replacing the sausage with smoked tofu or plant-based sausages.
  • Historically, cabbage was prized for its long shelf life through winter, making this skillet a reliable cold-weather meal.
  • The simple seasoning of paprika and garlic powder highlights the natural flavors of the vegetables without overwhelming them.

FAQ about Cabbage, Potato, and Sausage Skillet Recipe

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Yes, this dish can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as usual.

Absolutely! Feel free to use any precooked sausage you like, such as turkey sausage, pork sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed.

Yes, other types of potatoes can be used. Just make sure they are cut into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Yukon Gold or red potatoes are good substitutes.

This dish is great on its own but can be paired with a simple salad, bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. For extra flavor, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese works well.

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. After cooking, allow it to cool, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Yes, you can use any large skillet or frying pan. A cast-iron skillet works particularly well for even heat distribution, but any sturdy pan with a lid will suffice.

If you don't have chicken broth, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or water. For added flavor, consider adding a bit of seasoning or a splash of white wine.

To make this dish spicier, try adding red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a hot sauce of your choice while cooking. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.

Comments

Christopher Jackson

08/16/2024 05:04:31 AM

Tasty and flavorful