Simple, colorful, and bursting with savory flavor, Cabbage with Peppers and Sausage Stir Fry is a quick one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender-crisp cabbage, sweet bell peppers, and smoky sausage are stir-fried together to create a comforting dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.
This recipe is naturally low-carb, budget-friendly, and endlessly versatile. Serve it on its own, over rice, or alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love Cabbage with Peppers and Sausage Stir Fry
- One-pan recipe with easy cleanup
- Ready in about 25 minutes
- Smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavor
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Low-carb and keto-friendly
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cabbage with Peppers and Sausage Stir Fry – Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Green cabbage (sliced) | 1 medium head | Main vegetable |
| Smoked sausage (sliced) | 12–14 oz | Protein & smoky flavor |
| Bell peppers (any color, sliced) | 2 large | Sweetness & color |
| Onion (sliced) | 1 medium | Depth of flavor |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Aromatic |
| Olive oil | 1–2 tbsp | Sautéing |
| Paprika or Cajun seasoning | 1 tsp | Flavor boost |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Balance |
| Salt | To taste | Seasoning |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ¼ tsp | Heat |
How to Make Cabbage with Peppers and Sausage Stir Fry
1. Brown the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned on both sides. Remove sausage from the pan and set aside.
👉 Tip: Browning the sausage first adds deep flavor to the entire dish.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add olive oil to the same skillet if needed. Add sliced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Peppers
Add sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened but still vibrant.
4. Add the Cabbage
Add sliced cabbage to the pan. Season with paprika (or Cajun seasoning), black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together and cook for 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
If the pan seems dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of water or broth to help steam the cabbage.
5. Combine and Finish
Return the sausage to the skillet and toss well. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve
Remove from heat and serve hot straight from the skillet.
Tips for the Best Cabbage and Sausage Stir Fry
- Slice cabbage evenly for uniform cooking
- Don’t overcrowd the pan
- Use smoked or andouille sausage for bold flavor
- Let the cabbage caramelize slightly for richness
Variations & Substitutions
Flavor Variations
- Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire
- Finish with a drizzle of hot sauce
- Use smoked paprika for deeper flavor
Protein Options
- Chicken sausage
- Turkey sausage
- Add shrimp or sliced chicken
Diet-Friendly Options
- Keto & low-carb friendly
- Use turkey sausage for lighter version
- Add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms
What to Serve With Cabbage with Peppers and Sausage Stir Fry
- Steamed rice or cauliflower rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Cornbread or dinner rolls
- Simple green salad
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezing:
Not recommended—cabbage softens after freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep all ingredients in advance and cook just before serving.
2. What type of sausage works best?
Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or andouille sausage work best for bold flavor.
3. Can I use red or savoy cabbage?
Yes, though green cabbage holds up best for stir-frying.
4. How do I keep cabbage from getting soggy?
Cook over medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan.
5. Is this dish spicy?
Only if you add Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
6. Can I add sauce to this recipe?
Yes, a splash of soy sauce, chicken broth, or Worcestershire works well.
7. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and keto-approved.
8. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, replace sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms.
9. How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
10. What’s the best pan to use?
A large skillet or cast-iron pan works best for even browning.
Conclusion
Cabbage with Peppers and Sausage Stir Fry is a fast, flavorful, and comforting one-pan meal that delivers big taste with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy family dinner, this dish proves that simple ingredients can create incredible results.