Get ready to fall in love with the easiest, most flavorful comfort food imaginable. This Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage recipe is a true one-pot wonder, combining savory smoked sausage, tender cabbage, and a handful of simple seasonings to create a meal that’s both satisfying and incredibly simple to prepare. Just set it, forget it, and come back to a perfectly cooked, hearty dinner that will warm you from the inside out.
Why This Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Recipe Works
This isn’t just another dump-and-go recipe; it’s a perfectly balanced meal that delivers on all fronts. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, infusing the cabbage with the smoky, savory essence of the sausage. It’s a low-carb, high-flavor dish that requires minimal effort for maximum reward, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Key Ingredients for This Dish
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need a few core ingredients to create a truly memorable meal.
- Smoked Sausage: The star of the show! I recommend using a quality smoked kielbasa for its incredible flavor. You can also use andouille for a spicy kick or any other pre-cooked smoked sausage.
- Green Cabbage: One medium head of cabbage provides the perfect amount of bulk and soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- Onion & Garlic: These aromatics build the foundation of flavor for the entire dish.
- Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and helps to steam the cabbage to tender perfection.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A secret ingredient that adds a subtle tang, brightening up the dish and cutting through the richness of the sausage.
- Seasonings: A simple blend of salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes is all you need.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this crockpot cabbage and sausage is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by slicing the smoked sausage into ½-inch rounds. Roughly chop the head of cabbage and dice the onion. Mince the garlic cloves.
- Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place half of the chopped cabbage on the bottom of your slow cooker. Top it with the diced onion, minced garlic, and the sliced sausage. Add the remaining cabbage on top.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Pour this mixture evenly over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The cabbage should be tender and the flavors deeply combined.
Expert Tips for Success
Want to make your Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage absolutely perfect? Here are a few pro tips:
- Don’t Overcook: Cabbage can become mushy if cooked for too long. Start checking for tenderness around the 3-hour mark on high or 6-hour mark on low.
- Sear the Sausage: For an extra layer of flavor, briefly brown the sausage slices in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This caramelization adds incredible depth.
- Layer Correctly: Placing half the cabbage on the bottom prevents the other ingredients from scorching and ensures everything cooks evenly.
Delicious Variations to Try
While this recipe is fantastic as is, it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it to your liking!
- Add Potatoes: Turn this into an even heartier meal by adding some diced potatoes. They cook beautifully alongside the cabbage. If you like this idea, you’ll love our Crockpot Kielbasa with Potatoes and Green Beans.
- Make it Creamy: For a richer dish, stir in a touch of heavy cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Introduce More Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or even green beans can be added for extra color and nutrients.
What to Serve with Cabbage and Sausage
This dish is a fantastic all-in-one meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth, or alongside a comforting bowl of Mashed Sweet Potatoes for a complete feast. For a different take on a kielbasa-based dish, you might also enjoy our popular Kielbasa and Sauerkraut recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors get even better the next day!
- Storage: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: You can easily reheat individual portions in the microwave. Alternatively, warm it gently in a pot on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through.
For more incredibly easy and satisfying slow cooker meals, don’t miss our famous Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this is a perfect make-ahead meal. You can assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. The next day, simply place it in the heating base and turn it on.
Absolutely! While kielbasa is a classic choice, you can use andouille for a spicy kick, turkey sausage for a lighter option, or any other pre-cooked smoked sausage you prefer.
The key is to not overcook it. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Start checking for tenderness at the lower end of the time range. The cabbage should be tender, not dissolved.
Yes, it is! This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for a keto or low-carb diet. Just be sure to use a sausage with no added sugars.
This recipe is very versatile. You can add sliced carrots, bell peppers, or diced potatoes for an even heartier meal. Add potatoes at the beginning with the cabbage, and more delicate vegetables like bell peppers in the last hour of cooking.
Share This Comforting Recipe!
If you loved this simple and delicious Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage recipe, please share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to save it to your favorite board on Pinterest so you can always find it.
Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Recipe
Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage: The Ultimate Comfort Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by slicing the smoked sausage into ½-inch rounds. Roughly chop the head of cabbage and dice the onion. Mince the garlic cloves.
- Place half of the chopped cabbage on the bottom of your slow cooker. Top it with the diced onion, minced garlic, and the sliced sausage. Add the remaining cabbage on top.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Pour this mixture evenly over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The cabbage should be tender and the flavors deeply combined.
Notes
Do not overcook the cabbage, as it can become mushy. Check for tenderness around the 3-hour mark on high or 6-hour mark on low.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
