This is a simple 30-minute meal that you can make in one skillet with cabbage and sausage. You can serve it with potatoes or rice, and it tastes great!
Nothing beats how easy this cabbage and sausage dish is to make. This 30-minute meal is one you’ll want to make often. My Polish grandmother would be so proud if I used Kielbasa in this recipe, but any kind of cased sausage will work great too.
I love serving this with a side of mashed potatoes. The flavors are like a boiled dinner when eaten with the smoky meat, cabbage, and carrots. (A New England staple that I grew up with!).
Cabbage and sausage is a classic comfort food combo that never gets old The savory, slightly spicy sausage pairs perfectly with tender sweet cabbage for a mouthwatering one-pot meal But what are the best side dishes to serve alongside this hearty duo?
After scouring top recipe sites and food blogs, I’ve compiled this definitive guide to the 16 most amazing side dishes that complement cabbage and sausage flawlessly From creamy mashed potatoes to crispy onion rings, keep reading for inspired sides that will take your cabbage and sausage dinner from great to spectacular.
The Best Starch Sides for Cabbage and Sausage
Starchy sides are essential for soaking up the delicious juices and sauces from cabbage and sausage. Here are 6 perfect carb companions:
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Buttery, smooth mashed potatoes are hands-down one of the top pairings for cabbage and sausage. The rich creaminess mellows out the acidic tang of the cabbage and provides a pleasant contrast to the spicy sausage. For ultimate comfort food, serve your cabbage and sausage topped with a heaping spoonful of mashed potatoes.
2. Potato Pancakes
Also known as latkes or boxty, potato pancakes offer a crispy, golden exterior encasing soft, fluffy shredded potatoes inside. The combination of textures goes great with tender cabbage and juicy sausage. Fry up a stack of potato pancakes and dig in!
3. Parsley Buttered Noodles
Tossed in butter, parsley and just a pinch of garlic, these easy egg noodles provide a subtle flavor that lets the sausage and cabbage shine. The starchy noodles also help soak up any delicious cooking liquids.
4. Skillet Fried Potatoes
Cubes of potato sautéed in a skillet until crispy on the outside and fluffy inside are an easy, tasty side for cabbage and sausage. I like to add onions, bell pepper and paprika for extra flavor.
5. Scalloped Potatoes
Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce give you the irresistible combo of crispy edges and velvety smooth centers. The indulgent flavor is a match made in heaven for hearty cabbage rolls stuffed with sausage.
6. Rice Pilaf
Simple yet totally satisfying, rice pilaf adds a touch of sophistication with fragrant basmati rice, carrot slivers, peas and onion. The light, fluffy texture pairs nicely with juicy sausage and tender cabbage.
Veggie Sides to Lighten Up Your Meal
After all that rich, hearty cabbage and sausage, some lighter veggie sides really hit the spot. Here are 5 fresh options:
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts roasted until caramelized and crispy on the edges offer the perfect balance to fatty sausage and soft cabbage. The sweet, nutty flavor is downright addictive. Just try to eat only one!
8. Glazed Carrots
Sweet carrots glazed with a bit of honey, butter and fresh orange juice liven up a heavy cabbage and sausage dinner. The bright carrot flavor also balances the earthiness of the cabbage.
9. Sautéed Kale
Tough kale leaves transform into a silky, tender side when quickly sautéed with olive oil and garlic. The hearty greens stand up well to cabbage and sausage. Toss in dried cranberries or raisins for sweet bursts of flavor.
10. Coleslaw
Creamy cool coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, onion and parsley is a refreshing change of pace from hot cabbage and sausage. The tangy dressing and crunch of the vegetables cut through the rich flavors.
11. Green Bean Almondine
Blanched green beans are tossed with toasted sliced almonds, lemon, parsley and butter for a light and crunchy accompaniment to your hearty main course. The snap of the beans and nutty almonds are so tasty!
Comforting Casseroles and Bakes
When you want something cozy and indulgent alongside your cabbage and sausage, try one of these cheesy, saucy casseroles:
12. Mac and Cheese
An ooey-gooey mac and cheese casserole with melty cheddar cheese sauce and buttery breadcrumb topping is pure comfort. The mild flavor and velvety texture pairs wonderfully with spicy sausage.
13. Green Bean Casserole
This Thanksgiving classic with tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup and crispy fried onions is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of textures and flavors complement cabbage rolls stuffed with sausage perfectly.
14. Cheesy Scalloped Corn
Creamy corn casserole with gooey melted cheese and buttery cracker topping is amazing with sausage and cabbage. The sweet corn balances the slight bitterness of the braised cabbage.
15. au Gratin Potatoes
Thinly sliced potatoes layered with cream, cheese and spices then baked until bubbly and golden make an indulgent accompaniment for cabbage and sausage. The crispy cheesy topping takes this side over the top.
Quick Breads and Rolls
Bread and rolls are great for sopping up the tasty juices and sauces left on your plate after eating cabbage and sausage. Here is one delicious option:
16. Skillet Cornbread
There’s nothing like piping hot cornbread straight from a cast iron skillet. The slightly crumbly texture and wholesome corn flavor perfectly complement the heartiness of cabbage and sausage. Break off a piece and swipe up that sauce!
So there you have it – 16 sensational sides to take your cabbage and sausage dinner from boring to spectacular. From downhome comfort foods like mashed potatoes and mac and cheese to lighter options like roasted veggies and green salads, you’re sure to find the perfect partner for cabbage and sausage on this list.
Now grab your favorite kielbasa or bratwurst, braise up some cabbage, and let’s eat! Which side dish will you serve?
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How to Make It
Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
Sauté the Kielbasa to brown on each side. Remove and set aside. Add the onions and butter.
Add the garlic, then add the chicken broth, mustard, brown sugar, hot sauce, and parsley. Add the cabbage and carrots and season with salt/pepper.
Sauté for 10-15 minutes, or until desired consistency is obtained. Add the kielbasa back and toss to combine. Serve!.
- Place in a container that doesn’t let air in. Put in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. Leftovers do freeze/reheat well! .
The BEST Southern Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe EVER!!! | Ray Mack’s Kitchen and Grill
FAQ
What are sausages eaten with?