Smothered Cabbage Recipe – Immaculate Bites

What Is Smothered Cabbage?

In recipes for smothered cabbage, smothered refers to how you cook the cabbage. Easily infuse cabbage with flavor by simmering it in a tasty broth until tender. The result is delicious and healthy.

Recipe Ingredients

1. Sausage – Regular pork or breakfast sausage gives the dish a savory, smoky flavor.
2. Cabbage – Crisp, green cabbage provides crunch and loads of nutrients. Check out my easy tips on how to slice cabbage.
3. Seasonings – Onion and garlic sauteed in olive oil deliver a tasty base. We’re keeping things simple with some minty-sweet thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Broth – Chicken broth deglazes the skillet and packs a savory flavor punch. You can use vegetable broth, as well.

How to Make Smothered Cabbage

• Prep – Chop the cabbage and aromatics. (Photo 1)
• Sausage – Heat a medium skillet over medium, add cooking oil, and brown the sausage. Set aside. (Photo 2)
• Seasonings – Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent and slightly caramelized, 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper and stir. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Cabbage – Add the shredded cabbage and mix it with the onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the cabbage begins to soften. (Photos 3-4)
• Simmer – Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover the skillet, and simmer the cabbage (stirring occasionally) for 8-10 minutes. It should still be slightly crunchy. Toss a tablespoon of butter in, let it melt, and stir well. (Photo 5)
• Combine – Add in the sausage and adjust the seasonings to your preference. Paprika and thyme are fantastic. (Photo 6)
• Serve the smothered cabbage hot as a side dish or a main course. Enjoy!

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian – Leave the sausages and butter out if you prefer a completely plant-based recipe. Or replace them with tofu, tempeh, and olive oil.
2. Cajun smothered cabbage – Add a few shakes of Cajun seasoning for extra smokiness and heat.
3. More veggies – Carrots, celery, bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, and potatoes all add more color and crunch.
4. Additional toppings – Cabbage with bacon is amazing if you prefer it over sausage.

Tips and Tricks

1. Slice the onion thinly so it cooks evenly.
2. The best cabbage for this recipe is medium-sized, firm, and heavy. The leaves should be bright green, crisp, and free of blemishes.
3. Add a bit more oil or broth and stir frequently if the cabbage starts sticking to the skillet.
4. Cooking time varies depending on your preferences. Cook it a little longer for tenderer cabbage or shorter if you like more crunch.

Make-Ahead Instructions

While freezing cabbage isn’t a good idea for coleslaw, it’s ideal for cooked cabbage. Make this deliciousness ahead and freeze it for 2-3 months, or refrigerate it for 2-3 days for a fast meal on a crazy weeknight. Reheat it in a saucepan on the stove or the microwave.

Serving and Storage Instructions

Smothered cabbage is delicious fresh from the skillet on its own or served as a side. While it’s best hot, room temperature works too.

Leftover cooked cabbage freezes well for 2-3 months and stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat it in a saucepan on the stove or the microwave.

What to Serve With Smothered Cabbage

Smothered cabbage with sausage or other meat delivers a satisfying main dish or side. The classic roast beef and mashed potatoes are ideal. And for a vegetarian main, serve it with crusty no-knead bread.

More Delectable Cabbage Recipes to Try

1. Cabbage Roll Casserole
2. Corned Beef and Cabbage
3. Chicken Cabbage Soup
4. Jamaican Cabbage and Shrimp
5. Ethiopian Cabbage

Watch How to Make It