If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that packs a punch in flavor, let me introduce you to my favorite sausage and cabbage stir fry! This dish is not only super simple to whip up, but it also comes together in just about 25 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something delicious. The combination of savory sausage with tender cabbage creates a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and healthy. Trust me, once you try this stir fry, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb sausage, sliced (I love using spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick!)
- 4 cups cabbage, chopped (green cabbage works beautifully, but feel free to experiment!)
- 1 onion, sliced (any kind you have on hand will do, but yellow onions add a nice sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better, right?)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust based on your taste; I often go a bit heavier!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing; you could also use sesame oil for a different flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t forget to season as you go!)
How to Prepare Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious sausage and cabbage stir fry! I can’t stress enough how easy and quick this is, so let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
First things first, grab a large pan and heat up that olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to give a nice sizzle when the sausage hits the pan. This step is crucial because it helps to create that lovely golden crust on the sausage, which adds depth and flavor to the whole dish!
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Now, toss in your sliced sausage and let it cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to cook it until it’s beautifully browned. This caramelization enhances the savory flavor, so don’t rush this step! The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be incredible!
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next up, add in the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3–4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant. Oh, the smell of garlic sizzling is just heavenly! It really elevates the dish and makes your taste buds dance in anticipation!
Step 4: Add Cabbage and Stir-Fry
Now, it’s time to add the chopped cabbage! Stir-fry it for about 5 minutes, or until it’s tender but still has a bit of crunch. You want it to wilt down nicely, but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t turn mushy. The vibrant green color should still shine through!
Step 5: Mix in Soy Sauce
Pour in the soy sauce and give everything a good mix. This is where the magic happens! The soy sauce adds a savory, umami flavor that ties all the ingredients together. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste—more for a bolder flavor or less if you prefer a milder taste.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Now, don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! I always taste as I go to make sure it’s just right. It’s all about finding that perfect balance. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
Step 7: Serve Hot
Finally, serve your stir fry hot! It’s fantastic on its own, but I love pairing it with a scoop of rice or noodles for a full meal. For a little flair, garnish with some sesame seeds or chopped green onions. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds are in for a treat!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values for my sausage and cabbage stir fry. Keep in mind that these are estimates, so actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. This dish is not only delicious but also packs a good punch in terms of nutrition!
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
This is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s gluten-free and great for a balanced diet. Enjoy every delicious bite while knowing you’re fueling your body with good ingredients!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: This stir fry comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you need a satisfying meal in no time.
- Easy Cleanup: With just one pan needed, cleanup is a breeze! Less time washing dishes means more time enjoying your meal.
- Flavorful: The combination of savory sausage, tender cabbage, and aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering dish that’s packed with flavor in every bite.
- Healthy: Loaded with veggies and protein, this dish is a nutritious option that fits well into a balanced diet.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize it! You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, making this stir fry a dish you can enjoy over and over again without getting bored.
Tips for Success
Alright, my fellow home cooks, let’s make sure your sausage and cabbage stir fry turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some handy tips that I swear by:
- Quality Sausage: Choose a good-quality sausage that you love. I recommend spicy Italian or smoked sausage for a robust flavor, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your veggies and slice the sausage ahead of time. Having everything ready to go makes the cooking process a breeze!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps everything brown nicely and prevents steaming instead of sautéing.
- Keep it Moving: Stir-frying is all about quick cooking at high heat. Keep the ingredients moving in the pan to ensure even cooking and to prevent anything from sticking or burning.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Don’t hesitate to mix in other veggies! Bell peppers, carrots, or even snap peas can add great color and crunch. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on what you add.
- Season Gradually: Seasoning is key! Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper gradually until it’s just right for you. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s tough to fix if it gets too salty!
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best served hot and fresh! If you let it sit too long, the veggies can lose their crunch and the flavors might get muddled.
With these tips in your back pocket, I just know you’ll nail this dish! Happy stir-frying!
Variations
Now, let’s talk about how to get creative with your sausage and cabbage stir fry! This dish is super adaptable, and I love experimenting with different ingredients. Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Different Proteins: Swap out the sausage for chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Each protein brings its own unique flavor and texture!
- Colorful Veggies: Add in some vibrant bell peppers, shredded carrots, or snap peas for a pop of color and extra crunch. These veggies not only taste great but also brighten up your dish!
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños while cooking. It’ll give your stir fry a nice kick!
- Sweet and Savory: Try adding sliced apples or pineapple chunks for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors. It’s a fun way to mix things up and add a bit of sweetness!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can really elevate the dish. Stir in some chopped herbs right before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Asian Twist: Experiment with adding sesame oil instead of olive oil, and include bok choy or bean sprouts for a more traditional Asian-style stir fry. Top it off with sesame seeds for that finishing touch!
- Different Sauces: While soy sauce is a classic, don’t hesitate to try teriyaki, hoisin, or even a splash of chili sauce for a different flavor profile. Each sauce can completely change the vibe of the dish!
Get adventurous and have fun with it! Your sausage and cabbage stir fry can be a new creation each time you make it, and I’m sure you’ll find your favorite combinations along the way!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! Storing your sausage and cabbage stir fry is super simple, and I’ve got some tips to ensure it stays delicious for your next meal.
First, let the stir fry cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent any condensation from forming, which can make your dish soggy. I usually divide it into single servings so it’s easy to grab when I’m in a rush!
You can store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it properly to maintain that lovely texture and flavor. When you’re ready to dig in, heat it up in a pan over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s nice and hot throughout. If you find it’s a bit dry, add a splash of water or a touch more soy sauce to bring back some moisture.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stir fry! Just place it in a freezer-safe container, and it’ll last for about 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat it in the pan as mentioned earlier.
Trust me, this stir fry still tastes great the next day or even after a freeze! Perfect for busy days when you want a quick, homemade meal without all the fuss!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While I love using spicy Italian sausage, you can try breakfast sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the dish!
What if I don’t have cabbage on hand?
No worries! You can substitute cabbage with other sturdy vegetables like kale, bok choy, or even broccoli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure everything is tender and perfectly cooked.
How do I know when the sausage is fully cooked?
The sausage should be nicely browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center. If you’re unsure, you can always cut a piece in half to check that it’s cooked through. Safe cooking is key!
Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients in advance, and then just cook it when you’re ready to eat. The stir fry is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also store leftovers as mentioned above.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, your sausage and cabbage stir fry can easily fit into a gluten-free diet. Just check the labels to be sure.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative and add any vegetables you love or have on hand. Bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and even zucchini can make tasty additions!
What should I serve with the stir fry?
This stir fry is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a more filling meal. Top it with some sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra touch!
Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry: 7 Simple Steps to Deliciousness
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and easy sausage and cabbage stir fry.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sausage, sliced
- 4 cups cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add sausage and cook until browned.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add cabbage and stir-fry until tender.
- Pour in soy sauce and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- You can add other vegetables if desired.
- Adjust soy sauce according to your taste.
- Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: sausage and cabbage stir fry