Keto Sausage and Cabbage is one of those simple dinners that saves the day when life feels busy. I make this on evenings when the wind is blowing in from the ocean and everyone is hungry now. It is warm, filling, and made with just a handful of everyday ingredients. If you are looking for healthy dinner ideas that do not take much time or money, this skillet meal might become your new favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This is one of my favorite quick dinner ideas for a reason.
- It is ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- It uses simple ingredients, which makes it one of those cheap dinners for a family.
- It is low carb and filling, great if you are trying to eat lighter.
- Everything cooks in one pan, so cleanup is easy.
If you enjoy cozy sausage meals, you might also love my creamy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage for a heartier option on cooler nights.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1 pound ground sausage, this is the star of the dish and brings rich flavor.
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped, it becomes tender and slightly sweet as it cooks.
- 1 small onion, diced, adds depth and a little sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced, for warm savory flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter, helps everything cook and adds richness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste, simple seasoning is all you need.
- Optional: red pepper flakes, for a little kick.
You do not need fancy ingredients, just these basics. That is what makes this one of my favorite ground sausage recipes for dinner.
Step by Step Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil or butter.
- Add the ground sausage. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
- Add the diced onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until soft and clear.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Add the chopped cabbage. It may look like a lot, but it will cook down.
- Stir everything together. Cover and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring now and then, until the cabbage is tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust as needed.
Here is how you can make this on a busy weeknight. Brown the sausage while you chop the cabbage. Once it all goes into the pan, you mostly just stir and let it cook. If you have 20 minutes, you can have this on the table.
Helpful Tips and Variations
- Try sliced smoked sausage instead of ground for a twist. It gives a flavor similar to some kielbasa recipes.
- Add sliced bell peppers for extra color and nutrients if you want more healthy dinner ideas.
- For a heartier version for growing kids, stir in a little cooked cauliflower rice.
- This recipe also works in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage first, then add everything to the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. It becomes one of those easy dump and go crockpot dinners.
- If you enjoy bold flavors, you might like my Cajun sausage with scalloped potatoes for a spicy weekend supper.
If your family loves sausage as much as mine does, you can also try my creamy Italian sausage tortellini or this comforting corned beef recipe with Italian sausage when you want something a little different.
Serving and Storage
Serve this Keto Sausage and Cabbage hot right from the skillet. It pairs well with a simple green salad or sliced avocado on the side. For family members who are not eating low carb, you can spoon it over rice or mashed potatoes.
Keto Sausage and Cabbage Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil or butter.
- Add the ground sausage. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
- Add the diced onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Add the chopped cabbage and stir everything together. Cover and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors get even better the next day.
FAQs
Is Keto Sausage and Cabbage good for meal prep?
Yes, it is wonderful for meal prep. The cabbage holds up well in the fridge and does not get soggy. You can portion it into containers for easy lunches. It reheats quickly, which makes it great for busy work days. Because it is filling and high in protein, a small portion goes a long way. Many readers tell me it is one of their favorite lazy dinners to prep ahead.
Can I use smoked sausage instead of ground sausage?
Absolutely. Smoked sausage works beautifully in this recipe. Just slice it into rounds and brown it in the pan before adding the onion and cabbage. The flavor will be slightly different, more like classic kielbasa recipes. It is still delicious and just as easy to make.
Is this recipe budget friendly?
Very much so. Cabbage is usually inexpensive, and ground sausage is often on sale. That makes this one of those cheap dinners for a family that still feels hearty and satisfying. You can stretch it even further by serving it with a simple side dish. It is proof that good food does not have to cost a lot.
Can I add other ground meat?
Yes, you can swap in ground turkey or even ground beef if that is what you have. It becomes one of those flexible ground meat recipes that works with what is in your fridge. Just be sure to season well, since some meats are milder than sausage. Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper.
Final Thoughts from Ama
Some nights call for fancy meals, and some nights call for simple comfort in a skillet. This Keto Sausage and Cabbage is the kind of supper that brings everyone to the table without stress. Even if the cabbage browns a little too much or you forget to stir once or twice, it will still taste wonderful. Simple food, big heart, that is always the goal in my kitchen.