How to Make the Perfect 3 Ingredient Sausage Cabbage Skillet
American · Easy · 30 min · 4 servings
This 3 ingredient sausage cabbage skillet is a hearty, low-carb dinner that comes together in one pan with smoked sausage, green cabbage, and a drizzle of olive oil. The sausage renders its fat and flavors the tender, slightly caramelized cabbage for a deeply satisfying meal.
Why this recipe works
This 3 Ingredient Sausage Cabbage Skillet recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 350 calories with 16g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 14 oz smoked sausage sliced into rounds
- 0.5 head green cabbage roughly chopped about 6 cups
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 0.75 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp oil
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat oil in a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage in a single layer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until deeply browned and caramelized. Remove the sausage and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Cabbage
In the same skillet with the rendered sausage drippings, add the chopped cabbage and season with salt. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 12 minutes until the cabbage is tender and some edges are golden and slightly caramelized.
Step 3: Combine and Finish
Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the cooked cabbage. Add the Dijon mustard and toss everything together to combine. Cook for 2 more minutes until everything is heated through and well coated. Serve directly from the skillet.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- smoked sausage → kielbasa, andouille, or chicken sausage for different flavor profiles
- Dijon mustard → whole grain mustard or apple cider vinegar for a tangy finishing note
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Overcrowding the pan with sausage which causes it to steam rather than brown and caramelize
- Not cooking the cabbage long enough which leaves it raw and tough rather than sweet and tender
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 350 calories, 16g protein, 10g carbs, 28g fat, 3g fiber.
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