If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you’ve got to try this Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Stew Recipe. It brings together tender cabbage, smoky sausage, and a medley of fresh veggies that slowly mingle their flavors in the slow cooker, creating a stew that’s both simple and deeply satisfying. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to toss everything together and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal packed with homey goodness and just the right touch of spice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Stew Recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients that each contribute something special — from texture and color to bold, mouthwatering flavor. These essentials are easy to find, yet when combined, they deliver a dish that feels anything but ordinary.
- Green cabbage: Adds a tender, slightly sweet crunch that softens beautifully during slow cooking.
- Large onion: Provides a foundational savoriness that infuses the stew with warmth.
- Garlic cloves: Brings a subtle pungency that boosts flavor without overpowering.
- Smoked sausage or kielbasa: The star protein delivering smoky, hearty bites throughout the stew.
- Carrot: Offers a hint of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Paprika: Adds a mild smoky depth and rich red hue.
- Black pepper: Gives just enough kick to awaken the palate.
- Salt: Enhances all the ingredients and balances the flavors.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little extra heat in their stew.
- Apple cider vinegar: Introduces a subtle tang that brightens the dish.
- Chicken broth: Creates a luscious base that brings everything together.
- Olive oil or melted butter: Adds richness and helps meld the flavors.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Stew Recipe
Step 1: Layer the Veggies
Start by placing the chopped green cabbage, sliced onion, minced garlic, and carrot slices evenly into the bottom of your slow cooker. This layering ensures the vegetables slowly soften and mix their flavors throughout the cooking process, creating the stew’s hearty foundation.
Step 2: Add the Sausage
Next, arrange the sliced smoked sausage or kielbasa right on top of the vegetables. The sausage will release its smoky juices as it cooks, infusing the stew with a mouthwatering aroma and meaty richness.
Step 3: Season Generously
Sprinkle in the paprika, black pepper, salt, and if you’re feeling adventurous, crushed red pepper flakes. These spices bring both warmth and a gentle complexity that elevates the simple ingredients to something truly special.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Fats
Drizzle olive oil or melted butter evenly over the top, then pour in the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth. The vinegar adds just the right acidic balance, while the broth ensures your stew is juicy and flavorful as it cooks low and slow.
Step 5: Let the Slow Cooker Work Its Magic
Cover your slow cooker and let it cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, or if you’re short on time, on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, all those ingredients will marry perfectly, and the cabbage will become tender and infused with the smoky, tangy goodness around it.
Step 6: Finish and Adjust
Before serving, give the stew a gentle stir to mix everything together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a little more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Stew Recipe
Garnishes
To take your stew to the next level, consider topping it with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for a creamy contrast. A dollop of sour cream can also add a lovely, cool tang that balances the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up every last bit of that flavorful broth. Alternatively, serve it alongside a simple green salad or steamed potatoes to keep the meal balanced yet hearty.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or shake things up, serve the stew in hollowed-out bread bowls or even over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist. You can also portion it into individual mugs or bowls for a cozy, personal serving option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Stew Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
This stew freezes beautifully. Simply transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap smoked sausage or kielbasa with any sausage you like, such as Italian sausage or andouille, to match your flavor preferences. Just make sure it’s pre-cooked or smoked for the best results.
Is it possible to make this stew without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this stew on the stovetop. Simply layer the ingredients in a large pot, add the liquids, cover, and simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the cabbage is tender. Just be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Can I add other vegetables to this stew?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in diced potatoes, bell peppers, or celery to customize it. Just keep in mind that some veggies may require a bit less or more cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
How spicy is the stew?
The stew has a mild warmth from the black pepper and optional red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less crushed red pepper or using spicier sausage.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the sausage you choose does not contain gluten additives or fillers, this Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Stew Recipe is naturally gluten-free and safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Stew Recipe is one of those dishes that not only warms the body but also soothes the soul. Its simplicity makes it a go-to for busy weekdays, while its rich flavors make it perfect for sharing with friends and family on cozy nights. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!
Print
Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage recipe offers a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for busy days. The combination of tender cabbage, smoky sausage, and a blend of spices slow-cooked to perfection creates a comforting dish that is simple to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
Meat
- 14 oz smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into rounds
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large slow cooker, layer the chopped cabbage, sliced onions, minced garlic, and sliced carrots evenly to create a base for the dish.
- Add the Sausage: Place the sliced smoked sausage or kielbasa on top of the vegetable layer to allow the flavors to meld during cooking.
- Season the Dish: Sprinkle paprika, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) evenly over the sausage and vegetables to enhance the flavor profile.
- Add Liquids and Fats: Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over everything, then pour in the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth to provide moisture and depth of flavor.
- Cook Slowly: Cover and cook the mixture on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the cabbage to become tender and the flavors to fully develop.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, gently stir the dish to combine the ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed to achieve the desired flavor balance.
Notes
- You can substitute smoked sausage with kielbasa or any smoked sausage of your choice.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
