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
Scale
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.
