If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to whip up, and packed with great textures, this Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. The combination of savory beef sausage, crisp and tender cabbage, and colorful bell peppers all come together in a quick, satisfying stir fry that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend, this recipe delivers a cozy, hearty meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe plays a vital role in balancing flavor, texture, and color, making this dish simple yet spectacular. The ingredients are straightforward, but together they create a delicious harmony that’s hard to beat.
- 1 lb beef sausage: Use quality sausage for juicy, flavorful bites throughout the dish.
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped: Adds crunch and a mild, slightly sweet base to the stir fry.
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (mixed colors): Brings bright color and a touch of sweetness.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Gives a savory, slightly caramelized depth when cooked.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the stir fry with that irresistible aromatic punch.
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce: Adds umami and seasoning without overpowering the freshness.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil: For a nutty flavor that complements the sausage and vegetables perfectly.
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Toss in a bit of heat if you like a spicy kick.
How to Make Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
Start by slicing the beef sausage into bite-sized pieces. This ensures you get a perfect balance of meat in every mouthful. Using a sharp knife helps keep the slices neat for even cooking.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat the sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage pieces and cook until they are browned on the outside. This step locks in flavor and creates that satisfying caramelized crust that elevates the entire dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Once the sausage is nicely browned, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, so you get that wonderful garlic aroma without it burning.
Step 4: Cook the Onion and Bell Peppers
Next, add the diced yellow onion and sliced bell peppers. Stir and cook until they soften but still keep some bite. This adds sweetness and a lovely fresh texture that contrasts perfectly with the savory sausage.
Step 5: Add the Cabbage
Now it’s time for the star vegetable: chopped cabbage. Add it to the skillet and toss everything together so the cabbage starts to wilt but retains a bit of crunch that makes the dish so enjoyable to eat.
Step 6: Season with Soy Sauce
Pour in the low-sodium soy sauce and stir well to ensure all ingredients are coated. Let it cook for another few minutes to meld those flavors beautifully, giving the stir fry that signature savory, slightly salty goodness.
Step 7: Serve Warm with Optional Heat
When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top if you like a bit of spice. This step is optional but highly recommended for those who enjoy a touch of heat to brighten the dish.
How to Serve Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped green onions or cilantro can add freshness and a pop of color that makes the plate as inviting as the flavors. You could also add a few sesame seeds for a little crunch and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or simple noodles to soak up all those savory juices. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted sweet potatoes to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this stir fry inside lettuce cups for a fun handheld meal or spoon it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. You can also turn it into a hearty wrap with some flatbread for an easy lunch on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This sausage and cabbage stir fry holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal even tastier.
Freezing
If you’d like to save some for later, freeze the stir fry in portioned freezer-safe containers. It’s best to consume within 2 months to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm everything evenly. Avoid microwaving for too long to keep the sausage from drying out and the cabbage from becoming mushy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef sausage works wonderfully here, you can swap it out for pork, chicken, or even vegetarian sausage options without losing any of the deliciousness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Just be sure to check all labels so you maintain a gluten-free meal.
Can I add other vegetables to the stir fry?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots. Just adjust the cooking times slightly to keep everything crisp-tender.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but you can control the heat by adjusting the amount or leaving them out entirely if you prefer mild flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s a fantastic choice for meal prep because it reheats well and tastes great chilled or warm, making your weeknights a breeze.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is one of those wonderful dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavors and textures that never disappoint. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a regular in your meal rotation—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and flavorful Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry featuring browned beef sausage combined with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and tender green cabbage, all sautéed in sesame oil and seasoned with soy sauce and optional red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Perfect for a hearty and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb beef sausage
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (mixed colors)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Slice the sausage: Slice the sausage into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy eating.
- Cook the sausage: Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the sausage pieces and cook until they are nicely browned and cooked through, which adds a rich flavor base to the dish.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and sauté until it becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Add onion and bell peppers: Incorporate the diced onion and sliced bell peppers into the skillet and sauté until they soften and start to caramelize, enhancing their sweetness and texture.
- Add cabbage: Toss in the chopped cabbage and stir to combine everything well, allowing the cabbage to soften slightly while retaining some crunch.
- Season with soy sauce: Pour in the low-sodium soy sauce, mix thoroughly, and cook for another few minutes so the flavors meld together and the cabbage finishes cooking.
- Serve hot: Serve the stir fry hot, optionally garnished with red pepper flakes for a spicy touch.
Notes
- You can substitute beef sausage with chicken or pork sausage if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- For low-sodium diets, ensure the soy sauce is low-sodium or use tamari.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
