Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most mouthwatering, set-it-and-forget-it meal that will have your family begging for seconds! This Crockpot Cabbage and Sausage recipe is the perfect blend of hearty smoked sausage, tender cabbage, and rich, warming spices that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a busy parent, a working professional, or just someone who loves incredibly delicious yet simple meals, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces, chop the cabbage into small pieces, and dice the onion. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and has released some of its flavorful oils.
- Once the sausage is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- In your crockpot, place the chopped cabbage at the bottom. This will serve as a base for the other ingredients.
- Next, pour the browned sausage, onions, and garlic mixture over the cabbage in the crockpot.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice) to the crockpot. This will add moisture and flavor to the dish.
- Sprinkle the paprika over the mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After 6 hours, check the cabbage and sausage for tenderness. If the cabbage is soft and the sausage is heated through, your dish is ready to serve.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious crockpot cabbage and sausage meal!
Tips
- Choose high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor profile. Brands like Hillshire Farm or Johnsonville work wonderfully.
- For extra depth of flavor, consider browning the sausage and vegetables before adding them to the crockpot. This step caramelizes the ingredients and enhances the overall taste.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, use hot smoked sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Don't skip the paprika - it adds a subtle warmth and beautiful color to the dish.
- For a lighter version, you can use turkey sausage instead of traditional smoked sausage.
- If your cabbage releases too much liquid during cooking, you can remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to help it reduce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 285kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 60mg
