Looking for a dinner that’s both fast and flavorful? This Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry is the answer. Made in just half an hour, this recipe brings together tender cabbage, hearty sausage, and colorful veggies in one skillet. It’s a dependable choice for busy nights when you want something wholesome, delicious, and easy to put on the table.
By stir-frying instead of boiling or roasting, you preserve the crunch of the vegetables while allowing the sausage to develop a golden sear. This is comfort food made simple, with bold seasoning and textures that please in every bite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This meal comes together quickly using simple pantry staples. It delivers big flavor with minimal effort, thanks to the savory sausage and rich sesame-soy base. It’s also a complete dish, balancing protein, fiber, and a touch of heat, all while staying naturally low in carbs. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this dish makes a flavorful and filling choice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 lb sausage – Either smoked or Italian sausage works great. Smoked sausage brings a deep, savory flavor, while Italian sausage adds an herby edge. Choose what you enjoy most.
4 cups green cabbage – Thinly shredded cabbage provides crunch and heartiness. It cooks down slightly but keeps a satisfying texture in the stir fry.
1 cup bell peppers – Sliced red, yellow, or green peppers contribute sweetness and a colorful finish to the dish.
1 medium yellow onion – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth when sautéed, forming part of the aromatic base.
3 cloves garlic – Freshly minced garlic lifts the dish with sharp, pungent flavor and aroma.
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce – Brings a salty, umami-rich background without overwhelming the other ingredients.
1 tablespoon sesame oil – This fragrant oil gives the dish its signature stir fry taste.
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Use a pinch to introduce a gentle kick, or leave it out for a milder version.
How to Make Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry
This stir fry moves fast once you start cooking, so have your ingredients chopped and measured before heating the pan. The sausage goes in first to build a flavorful foundation. Then, the aromatics are added, followed by the vegetables. The soy and sesame mixture ties everything together into a warm, savory meal that’s packed with texture and color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Get everything ready
Slice the sausage into rounds. Shred the cabbage, slice the peppers, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped ensures smooth cooking.
Step 2: Cook the sausage
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the sesame oil. Add the sausage and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and sizzling.
Step 3: Add onion and garlic
Toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Stir and cook for around 2 minutes, just until fragrant and slightly softened.
Step 4: Stir fry the veggies
Add in the cabbage and bell peppers. Keep the heat high and stir continuously for 5 to 6 minutes. The vegetables should soften but stay crisp.
Step 5: Season and finish
Drizzle in the soy sauce and sprinkle on red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together and let it cook for a few more minutes so the flavors blend well.
Step 6: Taste and serve
Once everything is cooked through and coated in sauce, turn off the heat. Serve hot on its own or with rice if you want something more filling.
Helpful Tips
To keep the cabbage from turning mushy, cook it quickly over high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan. Stir often and use a wide skillet or wok for best results. If you prefer a leaner version, use turkey sausage or even a plant-based alternative. You can also add more veggies like mushrooms or snow peas to stretch the dish or increase its fiber content.
This dish also works well as leftovers. Just reheat in a skillet or microwave for a fast lunch or dinner the next day.
Details
Flavor: Bold and savory with nutty, garlicky undertones and just enough spice
Texture: A perfect mix of tender-crisp cabbage, juicy sausage, and soft peppers
Occasion: Ideal for quick dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Notes (Optional Variations or Substitutions)
If you’re following a vegetarian or vegan diet, swap the meat for your favorite plant-based sausage and use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce. Add other vegetables for variety, like carrots, green beans, or broccoli. For a sweeter, tangy twist, stir in a spoonful of hoisin sauce or a splash of rice vinegar near the end of cooking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 12 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Cholesterol | 60 mg |
This nutritional breakdown makes it a smart option for low-carb or high-protein lifestyles while still being satisfying and hearty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of sausage works best for cabbage stir fry?
Both smoked and Italian sausage are great choices. Smoked sausage offers a deeper flavor, while Italian sausage brings herbal notes. Choose based on your preferred flavor profile.
How do you keep cabbage from getting soggy in a stir fry?
Cook it quickly on high heat and avoid over-stirring. Adding the cabbage near the end of cooking helps it retain a bit of crunch.
Can sausage and cabbage stir fry be made ahead of time?
Yes, it’s a great option for meal prepping. Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat when ready to eat.
What seasonings pair well with sausage and cabbage?
Soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and even mustard or vinegar-based flavors all complement this dish well.
Storage Instructions
After cooling, transfer the stir fry to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about four days. You can also freeze it in portioned containers for up to two months. When reheating, use a skillet for best results. A splash of water or broth can help restore the moisture.
Print
Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry | Quick, Comforting, and Flavor-Packed
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the warmth of Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry, a hearty one-pan meal featuring juicy sausage, crunchy cabbage, sweet bell peppers, and savory garlic soy flavor. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
1 lb sausage (Italian or smoked)
4 cups green cabbage, chopped
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Slice sausage into bite-sized pieces and prepare all vegetables.
2. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to skillet. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add cabbage and bell peppers. Stir fry for 5 to 6 minutes until just tender.
5. Pour in soy sauce and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for 3 to 4 minutes more.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.
Notes
Use turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter version.
Try adding snap peas or mushrooms for variety.
Top with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added crunch.
Can be served alone or with rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Conclusion
Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry is a fantastic choice when you need a fast, wholesome, and satisfying meal. The ingredients are affordable, the flavors are bold, and cleanup is a breeze. With minimal prep and endless ways to customize, this recipe is sure to make its way into your regular rotation. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a hot, hearty meal that feels like home, no matter how busy your day has been.