If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day, the Hearty Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Stew Recipe is your new best friend. This stew perfectly balances tender cabbage, creamy potatoes, and smoky sausage in a rich broth that sings with savory spices. It’s a one-pot wonder that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in when you want something both filling and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients ensures that this stew comes together effortlessly while delivering layers of taste and texture that everyone will love. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether adding depth, heartiness, or a burst of freshness.
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds: The star protein that gives the stew a delicious smoky richness.
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped: Adds a tender crunch and subtle sweetness that balances the smokiness.
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: These provide creamy texture and bulk to soak up all the wonderful flavors.
- 1 onion, chopped: Builds a savory base that deepens the stew’s flavor profile.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a subtle warmth and aromatic punch.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and adding a silky mouthfeel.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that ties everything together and adds comfort.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Lends a gentle smoky heat that complements the sausage perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp thyme: Offers a fragrant, earthy note that lifts the stew.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness at the end.
How to Make Hearty Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Stew Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Smoked Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until each side is nicely browned. This step releases some of that rich smoky fat into the oil, building an incredible flavor base you won’t want to miss. Remove the sausage and set it aside to come back later.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Using the same pot with all those lovely browned bits, toss in the chopped onion. Cook it gently for about 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Next, add the minced garlic and stir for another minute until it becomes fragrant, filling your kitchen with a welcoming aroma that hints at the cozy meal ahead.
Step 3: Add Potatoes, Cabbage, and Spices
Now it’s time for the star vegetables. Add the diced potatoes and chopped cabbage directly to the pot. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well, letting those spices start to mingle with the veggies, setting the stage for a stew that’s bursting with hearty, layered flavor.
Step 4: Pour in Chicken Broth and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth until the potatoes and cabbage are fully covered. Bring the whole pot to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low and cover it. This slow simmer will gently cook the potatoes and cabbage until they’re tender and full of flavor. Plan for about 20 to 25 minutes here, stirring occasionally to keep everything cooking evenly.
Step 5: Return the Sausage and Heat Through
Once the potatoes are soft and the cabbage has wilted to perfection, stir the browned smoked sausage back into the pot. Let the stew simmer for another 5 minutes so the sausage warms through and its smoky essence infuses the broth even further. This final melding step is where the stew really comes together beautifully.
Step 6: Serve with Fresh Parsley Garnish
Dish out this soul-satisfying stew piping hot, finished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of herbal brightness and color. This little touch adds a fresh contrast to the deep, smoky flavors and makes your presentation extra inviting.
How to Serve Hearty Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Stew Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a simple but effective garnish that adds vibrant color and a mild, herbaceous flavor. If you want to mix it up, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar can add a luscious creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the smoky notes.
Side Dishes
This stew is quite satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crusty bread like sourdough or a baguette is pure bliss. The bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of that rich, flavorful broth. A crisp green salad with a zingy vinaigrette can also brighten the meal, balancing the hearty stew.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the stew in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets to keep portions hot and cozy. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or crispy fried onions on top adds exciting texture contrast that will surprise and delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Hearty Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Stew Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it airtight to preserve freshness, making it an easy go-to for busy weeknights when you want something nourishing without the fuss.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this stew for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Just be mindful that potatoes might soften more after freezing, but the flavors will stay wonderfully intact.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help restore the stew’s perfect consistency if it has thickened too much. The rich aroma that fills your kitchen again will make it feel like a fresh meal!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this stew?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds a wonderful depth of flavor, you can use kielbasa, chorizo, or even chicken sausage depending on your taste preferences. Just make sure it’s flavorful to keep the stew delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the sausage first, sauté the aromatics, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.
Can I make this stew vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the smoked sausage with hearty plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables like mushrooms for umami richness. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and adjust seasonings as needed.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If chicken broth isn’t available, vegetable broth or even beef broth can be used to add flavor. Just make sure the broth you choose is well-seasoned to complement the cabbage and sausage.
How spicy is the Hearty Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Stew Recipe?
This stew has a mild, smoky warmth from the paprika and sausage, but it’s not spicy hot. You can always add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you like a little kick.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the comfort and wonderful flavors of this Hearty Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Stew Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home with every spoonful—simple ingredients transformed into a satisfying, soul-warming meal. I encourage you to give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved classic in your own kitchen.
Print
Hearty Cabbage, Potatoes, and Smoked Sausage Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender cabbage, starchy potatoes, and smoky sausage in a comforting one-pot meal. With a blend of savory spices and a rich chicken broth base, it’s a perfect dish for a satisfying family dinner that is easy to prepare and packed with delicious, warming flavors.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage and set it aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add the diced potatoes, chopped cabbage, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the vegetables and sausage are covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Cook Until Tender: Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cabbage has softened. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Reintroduce Sausage: Once the potatoes and cabbage are cooked, return the smoked sausage to the pot and stir to combine. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat the sausage through.
- Serve: Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute smoked sausage with kielbasa or andouille sausage for different flavor profiles.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- This recipe is easy to double for larger gatherings.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
