Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry for Quick Weeknight Meals

When the week gets hectic and you need a satisfying dinner on the table fast, this sausage and cabbage stir fry is a go-to choice. It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for quick weeknight meals.

this Recipe

You’ll find this recipe combines savory sausage with tender cabbage and a simple sauce that brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this dish offers comfort and nutrition in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 25 minutes for fast weeknight dinners.
• Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely have on hand.
• Balanced flavors with savory sausage and mildly sweet cabbage.
• Low-carb and gluten-free option that fits many diets.
• One-pan cooking means minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Gather these straightforward ingredients for the best sausage and cabbage stir fry experience.

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced thinly for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

How to Make Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry – Quick Weeknight | January

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
4. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet; sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in the sliced cabbage, cooking until it softens but still retains some crunch, about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Return the sausage to the skillet; add soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything to combine and cook for another 2 minutes to meld flavors.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
8. Transfer to serving plates and garnish with sliced green onions.
9. Serve immediately for a warm, satisfying meal.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use fresh sausage with natural casings removed for best texture.
• Slice the cabbage thinly to ensure even cooking and a tender bite.
• Adjust the heat by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
• Don’t overcook the cabbage; it should be tender but not mushy to keep the dish vibrant.
• For added flavor, try a splash of toasted sesame oil right before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover sausage and cabbage stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving to maintain flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute Italian sausage with breakfast sausage, chorizo, or even chicken sausage depending on your taste preference. Just adjust the seasoning if the sausage is already spicy or heavily seasoned.

Is this dish gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.

Can I add other vegetables to this stir fry?

Definitely! Bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas would make great additions. Just add them early enough to cook through alongside the cabbage.

What can I serve with sausage and cabbage stir fry?

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs well with steamed rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.