If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor, the Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry (30-Minutes) is an absolute winner. This recipe brings together smoky sausage, tender cabbage, and savory seasonings in a simple stir fry that you can whip up any night of the week. What’s so great about this dish is how the ingredients come alive with just a few pantry staples and fresh veggies, making it deliciously wholesome and perfect for when time is tight but taste is a priority.

Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry (30-Minutes) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential for creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your stir fry. Each item plays a distinct role, from the hearty sausage to the vibrant, crunchy veggies, blending into a harmonious dish that’s anything but boring.

Smoked sausage (200 g / 7 oz): Adds a rich, smoky flavor and protein to the dish.
Medium cabbage (400 g): Provides a fresh, crisp texture and mild sweetness when cooked.
Medium onion (150 g): Brings natural sweetness and depth to the stir fry.
Garlic cloves (2, minced): Offers an aromatic punch that enhances all the flavors.
Olive oil or avocado oil (2 tbsp): A healthy fat that ensures a perfect sear and cooks ingredients evenly.
Bell pepper (150 g, optional): Adds vibrant color and a slight crunch for extra veggies.
Carrot (100 g, optional): Julienne cut for sweetness and a pleasing bite.
Soy sauce or tamari (2 tbsp): The salty backbone that ties the dish together, with tamari for gluten-free options.
Sesame oil (1 tsp): Infuses a toasty, nutty flavor essential to Asian-inspired stir fries.
Honey or low-carb sweetener (1 tsp, optional): Balances salty notes with a hint of sweetness.
Chili flakes (pinch, optional): Adds a subtle kick for those who like a touch of heat.

How to Make Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry (30-Minutes)

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by slicing your smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds or strips—this helps them brown perfectly and blend well with the veggies. Then, thinly slice your cabbage and onion, and julienne your carrot if you’re adding it. If you’re using bell pepper, slice it as well so everything cooks evenly and quickly.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce or tamari, sesame oil, honey or sweetener if using, and a pinch of chili flakes if you want some heat. This simple sauce will give your stir fry a beautiful balance of salty, nutty, and slightly sweet flavors that complement the sausage and veggies brilliantly.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

Heat your skillet or wok on medium-high and add the olive or avocado oil. Toss in the sausage pieces and cook until they turn golden and develop a slight crisp on the edges. This browning step is key because it adds texture and intensifies the sausage’s smoky flavor. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside for now.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sliced onions. Sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. These aromatics form the flavorful base that makes this Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry (30-Minutes) so irresistible.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage and Veggies

Add the thinly sliced cabbage to your pan and stir well. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, letting it soften but still hold onto some crunch for texture. If you’re using bell pepper and carrots, toss them in as well so they stay crisp and colorful against the cabbage and sausage.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the veggies and pour in your prepared sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly so every bite is coated with that delicious, savory sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Then, remove from heat and get ready to serve this crowd-pleaser.

How to Serve Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry (30-Minutes)

Garnishes

Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions on top. These garnishes add both an eye-catching touch and a pop of fresh flavor that elevates your stir fry to the next level. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also brighten the entire dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

This stir fry is hearty enough to stand on its own but pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. If you want something lighter, a crisp cucumber salad on the side offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory stir fry.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry (30-Minutes) in warm lettuce cups for a handheld meal, or pile it atop steamed noodles for a fusion noodle bowl. You can also turn it into a filling for wraps or tacos to add a new dimension of flavor and make your leftovers feel brand new.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. The stir fry will keep well for up to 3 days and tastes even better as the flavors have more time to meld together overnight. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry (30-Minutes) for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and remove as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat your stir fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it covered in short bursts, stirring in between, to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating helps keep everything moist and fresh-tasting.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage?

Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible. You can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even spicy chorizo depending on your flavor preference. Just make sure to cook the sausage thoroughly before combining it with the veggies.

Is it necessary to use cabbage?

Cabbage is central to this stir fry’s texture and flavor, but if you’re out or want to try something different, Napa cabbage, kale, or even bok choy make great alternatives and still keep the dish light and tasty.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or crispy tofu to keep the protein content high while maintaining the savory taste. Adjust seasoning accordingly since these swaps absorb flavors differently.

How spicy is this dish?

The chili flakes are optional, so you control the heat level. Adding them provides a gentle warmth but you can leave them out for a milder version that’s perfect for all palates.

What’s the best way to slice the sausage?

Cutting the sausage into thin rounds or bite-sized strips helps them brown evenly and blend seamlessly with the cabbage and other veggies. Thicker pieces may take longer to cook and can overpower the dish.

Final Thoughts

Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry (30-Minutes) is one of those golden recipes you want in your back pocket for quick weeknight dinners or when you want something tasty without fuss. It’s loaded with big flavors, textures, and colors, yet so simple to prepare. I honestly can’t recommend it enough—grab those ingredients and dive into this delicious, comforting meal that comes together faster than you’d think!