If you’re craving a dish that is hearty, full of vibrant flavors, and incredibly simple to whip up, this Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. It’s the perfect blend of smoky sausage, tender-crisp cabbage, and colorful veggies, all tossed together in a savory sauce that sings with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or looking to impress without the hassle, this recipe delivers comfort and satisfaction in one sizzling skillet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the smoky slices of sausage that bring boldness, to the crunchy cabbage adding freshness and texture, and the bright bell pepper that injects a pop of color and sweetness.
- 1 pound smoked sausage: Choose a quality smoked sausage for that rich, savory flavor that anchors the dish.
- 1 medium green cabbage: Thinly sliced to maintain a perfect crunch once stir-fried.
- 1 large onion: Sliced to add sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 1 red bell pepper: Adds color and a subtle sweetness that balances the smoky sausage.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Ideal for high heat cooking without overpowering flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the dish with its irresistible aroma.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Brings a savory, umami touch that ties all ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Adds a fragrant nuttiness that elevates the entire stir fry.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle kick that wakes up your palate.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors without overshadowing them.
- 2 green onions (optional): Thinly sliced for fresh, crisp garnish.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Toasted for an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor.
How to Make Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil and Brown the Sausage
Start by warming your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced smoked sausage rounds. Let them cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust with a slight crisp on the edges. This step locks in flavor and adds a wonderful texture contrast. When ready, remove the sausage and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Using the same skillet (no need to add more oil if it looks dry), toss in your sliced onions. Cook them for around 2 minutes, stirring often so they soften without browning too much. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds until fragrant — this quick step releases the wonderful garlicky aroma that makes this stir fry so inviting.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Cabbage and Bell Pepper
Next, it’s time to add the thinly sliced cabbage and red bell pepper. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the cabbage to retain a bit of crunch and the bell pepper to become tender-sweet, which balances perfectly against the smoky sausage. Keep the veggies moving in the pan so they cook evenly and maintain their vibrant colors.
Step 4: Combine Sausage and Flavorings
Return those beautifully browned sausage slices to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and drizzle the sesame oil over all the ingredients. Sprinkle in the black pepper and salt, adjusting to your taste. Stir well to marry all the flavors, letting everything sizzle together for 3 to 4 minutes. This short simmer brings an amazing depth that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serve
Once cooked through, remove the skillet from heat. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds — these little extras add freshness and a pleasant crunch that makes the dish feel extra special. Serve your Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry piping hot and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds isn’t just about appearance — they introduce fresh, crisp bites and nutty undertones that complement the hearty sausage and crunchy cabbage beautifully. Feel free to add a few chili flakes if you enjoy a spicy kick.
Side Dishes
This stir fry is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up the savory juices. For a lighter option, a simple cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. This versatility makes it an excellent dinner choice any day of the week.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the stir fry in a large, shallow bowl or family-style platter and let everyone help themselves. Alternatively, stuff the mixture into warm pita pockets or serve over crispy noodles for a fun twist. This recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as tasty, if not better, the next day.
Freezing
Freezing this stir fry is possible but not always ideal due to the cabbage’s texture change after thawing. If you do freeze it, portion it out into freezer-safe containers and consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to warm the stir fry gently, stirring often. This method helps maintain the texture of the sausage and veggies better than microwaving. If using a microwave, cover loosely and stir halfway through heating to ensure even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute smoked sausage with kielbasa, Italian sausage, or even chicken sausage for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to slice it thinly so it cooks evenly with the veggies.
Is this recipe spicy?
This particular Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is mild and deliciously savory. If you prefer a little heat, you can always add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking or at the table.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the sausage with hearty plant-based sausage or tofu. To boost flavor, add a generous splash of soy sauce and consider tossing in mushrooms or other umami-rich vegetables.
What can I substitute if I don’t have sesame oil?
If sesame oil is not available, you can omit it or replace it with a small amount of toasted nut oil or olive oil. The distinctive nutty flavor is lovely but the dish will still be tasty without it.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 35 minutes total — 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the comfort and ease of this Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe. It’s simple, packed with flavor, and incredibly rewarding to make. Once you try it, you’ll find this dish popping up often on your dinner table, delivering a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and fresh tastes every single time.
Print
Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry featuring smoked sausage, fresh vegetables, and a savory soy-based sauce. This dish combines the smoky taste of sausage with the crisp texture of cabbage and bell peppers, all cooked quickly in a skillet for a tasty weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound (450g) smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Vegetables
- 1 medium green cabbage, cored and sliced into thin strips
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Oils and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the sausage.
- Cook Sausage: Add the smoked sausage slices and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and edges turn slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Onion: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook for 2 minutes while stirring frequently to soften them slightly.
- Add Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the sliced cabbage and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
- Combine Sausage and Vegetables: Return the cooked sausage slices to the skillet with the vegetables to combine flavors.
- Add Seasonings: Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil, then sprinkle black pepper and salt to taste. Stir thoroughly to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Finalize Cooking: Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and ensure everything is heated through.
- Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired to add freshness and texture.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry!
Notes
- You can substitute smoked sausage with chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and salt according to your taste preference and dietary needs.
- For extra heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of chili sauce.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or microwave.
