If you’re looking for an easy, hearty, and comforting meal that practically cooks itself, you’re going to love this Crockpot Sausage and Cabbage recipe. It’s warm, savory, and packed with simple, wholesome ingredients that the whole family can enjoy. I’ve been making this dish for years—it’s one of those recipes that feels like a big warm hug on a cold day. Plus, it’s super budget-friendly and perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s dive in and make this together!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped into large chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Tools:
- A 6-quart crockpot or slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Pro Tips
- Sauté the sausage first for extra flavor—this step isn’t mandatory, but browning the sausage gives it a richer taste.
- Cut the veggies into larger pieces so they hold up during the long cooking time.
- Add the cabbage last if you like it less soft—it cooks faster than the other veggies.
- Don’t skimp on the broth! It keeps everything juicy and flavorful.
- Let the kids help! They can peel carrots or help measure spices—it’s a great way to get them involved.
Tools Needed
- 6-quart Crockpot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap smoked sausage for chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist.
- Add celery or parsnips for extra veggies.
- If you like spice, throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep all the veggies and sausage the night before. Store them in separate containers in the fridge, and dump everything into the Crockpot in the morning.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Chop the cabbage, dice the potatoes, slice the carrots, dice the onion, and slice the sausage.
Step 2: (Optional) Brown the Sausage
Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the sliced sausage for 2-3 minutes on each side. This adds extra flavor.
Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
Add the potatoes, carrots, onion, and browned sausage to the Crockpot first. Then layer the cabbage on top. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour the broth over everything.
Step 4: Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and flavors are well combined.
Step 5: Serve
Give everything a good stir, taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- This dish freezes well too—just portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Sausage and Cabbage is simple, comforting, and delicious—a perfect no-fuss family dinner! I hope your family loves it as much as mine does. Let me know how it turns out in the comments, or ask any questions if you’re stuck. Happy cooking! 😊
