Sausage and Cabbage Stew

If you’re in the mood for something hearty, warming, and just a little bit comforting, this Sausage and Cabbage Stew is about to be your new best friend. Imagine a rich, savory broth infused with the savory goodness of sausage, perfectly tender cabbage, and a medley of veggies, all simmered together to create a flavor-packed bowl of comfort. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal for a chilly night or something simple and satisfying for dinner, this stew is as easy as it is delicious. You’ll have it on repeat once you try it – it’s that good!

Why You’ll Love Sausage and Cabbage Stew

This isn’t just any stew—this one’s a game-changer. Here’s why:

• Versatile: Whether it’s a chilly fall evening, a busy weeknight, or a laid-back weekend meal, this stew is ready to shine. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for both casual meals and more special occasions. Plus, you can easily adjust the veggies and seasonings to make it your own.
• Budget-Friendly: Sausage and cabbage are both affordable ingredients that combine to create a meal that’s full of flavor without the hefty price tag. It’s perfect for when you’re on a budget but still craving something delicious and filling.
• Quick and Easy: The prep time is minimal, and the simmering does the rest. You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to make this stew; just a little bit of chopping and stirring, and you’re on your way to a satisfying dinner.
• Customizable: Want to spice it up? Add some red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to kick things up a notch. If you prefer it milder, you can always tone down the seasonings and still have a comforting bowl of stew.
• Crowd-Pleasing: This stew is a hit at any table, whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a dinner. Hearty and comforting, it’s guaranteed to please a crowd.

Ingredients

Now, let’s take a look at what makes this stew so delicious:

Sausage

The heart and soul of this stew! Whether you’re using Italian sausage, smoked sausage, or something in between, the sausage brings a depth of flavor that makes this stew stand out.

Cabbage

Cabbage adds that perfect balance of tenderness and crunch. It soaks up all the savory flavors from the sausage and broth, and adds a nice bite that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the stew.

Carrots

Sweet and earthy, the carrots add a nice pop of color and flavor to the stew. As they cook, they become tender and sweet, blending beautifully with the other ingredients.

Potatoes

A comforting addition that makes the stew extra hearty. The potatoes cook down and absorb all the delicious flavors from the broth and sausage, giving you that satisfying, filling texture.

Onion

A staple in many stews, onions provide the savory base that enhances the other flavors. They’ll caramelize as they cook, adding a rich sweetness to the stew.

Garlic

A bit of garlic goes a long way in adding depth to the broth. It’s aromatic and flavorful, rounding out the stew and giving it that irresistible savory aroma.

Chicken Broth

This is the base of the stew and provides all the liquid needed to cook everything to perfection. You can also use vegetable broth or beef broth for a slightly different flavor.

Bay Leaves

Just a couple of bay leaves help infuse the stew with a lovely herbaceous note that enhances the other ingredients without overpowering them.

Thyme

Fresh or dried, thyme adds an earthy, fragrant flavor that’s key in bringing all the ingredients together. It’s that subtle herbiness that ties everything together.

Salt and Pepper

A little seasoning to taste! Salt and pepper bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients and give the broth the perfect balance.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make this delicious stew? Here’s how to do it:

Brown the Sausage

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and brown it on all sides, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. This step adds flavor to the base of your stew and creates those savory bits that make each bite so delicious.

Sauté the Vegetables

Once the sausage is browned, add the onions, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step builds the flavor base for your stew.

Add the Potatoes, Broth, and Herbs

Add the potatoes, chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together, making sure the potatoes are submerged in the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Simmer Until Tender

Let the stew simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have had a chance to meld together. If you’re using cabbage, now is the time to add it to the pot.

Add the Cabbage

Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and has soaked up all the delicious flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is tender and flavorful, ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot. It’s a cozy, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve Sausage and Cabbage Stew

This stew is hearty enough to stand on its own, but here are some ideas for sides that will complement it perfectly:

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the stew. Garlic bread works especially well!
• Fresh Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stew.
• Cheese: A little grated parmesan or shredded cheese on top of the stew will add a nice touch of creaminess and flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve it alongside roasted vegetables for extra color and nutrients. Carrots, brussels sprouts, or even roasted cauliflower would be delicious!

Additional Tips

Here are a few tricks to make your stew even better:

• Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables and sausage the night before to save time when it’s time to cook.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stew for a kick.
• Add Beans: If you want to bulk up the stew, toss in some white beans like cannellini or great northern beans.
• Use Leftover Sausage: If you’ve got leftover cooked sausage, feel free to throw it in the pot for a shortcut.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop for the best results.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of sausage?
A1: Yes! Italian sausage, smoked sausage, or even turkey sausage would work great in this stew. Just choose one that suits your flavor preferences.

Q2: Can I make this stew ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! In fact, this stew often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well if you want to make a big batch and save some for later.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
A4: Yes! Feel free to add other veggies like celery, parsnips, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.

Q5: How do I reheat the stew?
A5: Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual servings, but the stovetop method will preserve the texture better.

Q6: Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?
A6: Yes, you can! Beef broth will add a deeper, richer flavor to the stew.

Q7: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A7: You can substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely for a lighter, vegetarian version. Add extra beans or lentils to make it more filling.

Q8: How spicy is this stew?
A8: The stew isn’t spicy by default, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to customize the heat level to your liking.

Q9: Can I use pre-cut cabbage for this recipe?
A9: Absolutely! Pre-cut cabbage is a convenient option if you want to save time on prep work.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes! This recipe is easy to scale up if you’re feeding a larger crowd or want leftovers for the week.

Conclusion

Sausage and Cabbage Stew is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s perfect for cozy nights at home or sharing with loved ones around the table. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that will warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this stew is guaranteed to please. Enjoy every comforting bite!

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