Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dinner recipe? Look no further! This cabbage and ground sausage recipe is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It's a fantastic way to use up leftover sausage, and it’s adaptable to your taste preferences, making it a great addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a comforting and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground sausage (Italian or your favorite flavor)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
-
Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
-
Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Add Cabbage and Liquids: Add the sliced cabbage, diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, thyme, and oregano to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
Serve: Serve hot. This dish is delicious on its own, or you can serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cabbage and Sausage:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the sausage, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure even browning and prevent the sausage from steaming instead of frying. Work in batches if necessary.
- Thinly slice the cabbage: Thinly slicing the cabbage helps it cook faster and more evenly. Using a mandoline slicer can be helpful for consistent slices.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your personal preference. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Add other vegetables: This recipe is easily customizable. Add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage Cabbage: Use spicy Italian sausage for a bolder flavor.
- Apple Cider Cabbage: Add 1/2 cup of apple cider to the skillet for a sweet and savory twist.
- Kielbasa Cabbage: Substitute kielbasa sausage for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This easy cabbage and ground sausage recipe is a fantastic option for a healthy and delicious meal. It's a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are both budget-friendly and satisfying, making it a great addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy!