Here’s a delicious, simple Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage recipe that’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for an easy dinner.
Ingredients (serves 4–6)
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1–1.5 pounds smoked sausage (like kielbasa), sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2–3 medium potatoes, chopped into chunks (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, adds a bit of flavor and moisture)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning sausage)
Instructions
- Optional step – Brown the sausage:
In a skillet, heat 1–2 tbsp olive oil and brown sausage slices for 2–3 minutes per side. This adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time. - Layer ingredients in slow cooker:
- Place onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes (if using) at the bottom.
- Add the cabbage on top.
- Layer the sausage over the cabbage.
- Add seasonings and liquid:
- Sprinkle paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper over the top.
- Pour the broth (and diced tomatoes if using) evenly over everything.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until vegetables are tender and flavors have melded.
- Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, ideally with some crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Tips
- For a tangy twist, add 1–2 tbsp apple cider vinegar in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Swap smoked sausage for kielbasa, bratwurst, or even chicken sausage for variation.
- If you like it a little spicy, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes.
If you want, I can also give you a one-pot shortcut version with minimal chopping that’s even faster for busy days. Do you want me to do that?
