Cheesy Cabbage & Sausage Skillet

Cheesy Cabbage & Sausage Skillet is the kind of rustic, no-fuss meal that turns simple ingredients into something deeply comforting and satisfying. With smoky sausage, tender cabbage, and melted cheddar cheese, this one-pan wonder comes together quickly and delivers bold flavor in every bite. It’s the perfect answer to busy weeknights when you need something hearty and delicious without a sink full of dishes.

The combination of sautéed cabbage and sausage is timeless. The cabbage softens beautifully in the skillet, soaking up the savory flavors of garlic, onion, and spice. Browning the sausage first adds depth and a touch of caramelization, while a final blanket of melted cheese ties everything together in rich, gooey goodness. It’s cozy, filling, and packed with protein and fiber.

This recipe also checks the boxes for low-carb eating without sacrificing any comfort. It’s satisfying enough to stand alone as a complete meal, or you can serve it alongside crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad. Plus, everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Whether you’re cooking for family or just whipping up something easy for yourself, this cheesy cabbage skillet is a meal you’ll come back to again and again. It’s flexible, budget-friendly, and always hits the spot—especially when the weather calls for warm, homestyle food.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced
• 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 4–5 minutes. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until the cabbage is wilted and tender.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it heat through for 2–3 minutes.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 2–3 minutes.
6. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, and enjoy the cheesy, smoky, savory goodness.

Variations:

• Add Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots for extra color and nutrients.
• Use Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses to change the flavor profile.
• Make It Spicy: Choose a hot smoked sausage or increase the red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Low-Fat Option: Use turkey sausage and reduced-fat cheese to lighten up the dish without losing flavor.

Tips:

• Chop cabbage into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and better texture.
• Browning the sausage well adds extra flavor to the entire dish—don’t rush this step.
• If the skillet becomes too dry while cooking the cabbage, add a splash of water or broth to help it steam and soften.
• Leftovers reheat well and make a great lunch the next day.
• For a baked version, transfer everything to an oven-safe dish, top with cheese, and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden.