Cabbage and Sausage Skillet with Cajun Seasoning Recipe

I’m so excited to share this cozy, flavorful dish with you — my Cabbage and Sausage Skillet with Cajun Seasoning Recipe is a total weeknight game-changer. It’s quick, easy, and packs a punch with that classic Cajun spice blend, giving you comfort food vibes without a ton of fuss. I love how it uses simple ingredients you might already have, turning them into a hearty, satisfying meal that even picky eaters will dig.

This skillet recipe works beautifully when you want something nourishing and flavorful but don’t want to slave over the stove. I often make it on busy evenings or when I crave that spicy, smoky sausage flavor paired with tender cabbage. You’ll appreciate how the Cajun seasoning brings everything together with just the right kick without ever overpowering the natural sweetness of the veggies.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

The ingredients in this Cabbage and Sausage Skillet with Cajun Seasoning Recipe are straightforward but purposeful — each one contributes to layering flavors, textures, and a touch of Southern flair. Choosing the right sausage and fresh cabbage really makes a difference.

• Olive oil: A great base fat for browning sausage and bringing out the rich flavors without overpowering.
• Andouille Sausage: Classic for Cajun cooking, its smoky, spicy notes elevate the whole skillet. If you can’t find it, any smoked sausage will work.
• Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and helps gently soften the onions and cabbage while building flavor.
• Onion: Brings sweetness and depth when caramelized, balancing the bold sausage and seasoning.
• Cabbage: The star veggie here — shredded for quick cooking and a lovely tender-crisp texture.
• Diced tomatoes: Adds brightness and moisture for a little zing, preventing the skillet from getting too dry.
• Cajun seasoning: The secret sauce that ties everything together with traditional Cajun heat and herbs — you can adjust the amount to suit your spice level.
• Sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors — don’t skip!

Tweak to Your Taste

I love how this Cabbage and Sausage Skillet with Cajun Seasoning Recipe invites personalization depending on what you have or crave that day. I sometimes add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for brightness or extra crushed red pepper if I’m feeling bold.

• Spice Level: If you prefer milder heat, reduce the Cajun seasoning and add it gradually until you hit your perfect balance.
• Protein Swap: Chicken sausage or turkey sausage work well, giving lower fat options while still keeping that meaty character.
• Veggie Boost: Throw in bell peppers or kale alongside the cabbage for more color and nutrients.
• Low Carb/Keto: Skip the tomatoes or replace them with chopped green onions to keep it keto-friendly.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cabbage and Sausage Skillet with Cajun Seasoning Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage for Maximum Flavor

Start by heating the olive oil over medium-high heat in your largest skillet. Add your thinly sliced andouille sausage — I like to let it cook a couple minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned and some fat renders out. This step infuses the pan with flavor, which is foundational for the whole dish. Don’t rush it here, but watch carefully so it doesn’t burn. Once browned, set the sausage aside on a plate and keep it warm.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions for Sweetness

After you’ve wiped down the pan, add butter and reduce the heat to medium-low. Toss in your diced onion and give it some time — around 8 to 10 minutes — to soften and develop some caramelized bits. This mellows the onion’s sharpness and layers in a luscious sweetness.

Step 3: Wilt the Cabbage to Tender-Crisp Perfection

Once your onions are ready, stir in the shredded cabbage, covering the pan to trap steam and tenderize the leaves. In 3-4 minutes, check the cabbage—it should be softening at the bottom but still have a little crunch on top. Uncover and stir, cooking just a couple minutes more until it’s crisp-tender, which keeps the texture enjoyable and fresh.

Step 4: Bring It All Together With Tomatoes, Seasoning & Sausage

Drain your diced tomatoes well to prevent the skillet from getting soggy. Add them to the pan along with the Cajun seasoning, sea salt, and browned sausage. Turn the heat back up to medium-high and stir-fry everything for 3-4 minutes so flavors meld and extra moisture evaporates. This final step gives you that beautifully combined, slightly spicy, and smoky skillet meal you’re craving.

How to Serve Cabbage and Sausage Skillet with Cajun Seasoning Recipe

Garnishes

I usually finish this dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the spice. Sometimes I like a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime to cool things down and brighten flavors — those small touches really elevate the meal.

Side Dishes

This skillet pairs wonderfully with a side of buttery cornbread or simple steamed rice, which helps soak up those spicy, savory juices. I’ve also enjoyed it alongside roasted potatoes or a crisp green salad for a lighter combo.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at dinner parties, I’ve served this skillet topped with a fried egg or alongside grilled crusty bread for dipping. You can also plate it over creamy mashed potatoes or even stuff the mixture into warm pita pockets for a creative lunch option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days — it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just make sure to cool it quickly before refrigerating to keep it fresh.

Freezing

Freezing works fine for this dish, too! I portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember that the texture of the cabbage softens a bit after thawing, but the flavor holds up great for quick meals.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly and prevent scorching. If it seems dry, splash a bit of water or broth to revive that tender texture and keep it juicy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cabbage and Sausage Skillet with Cajun Seasoning Recipe is one of those dishes that’s as comforting as a warm hug and as straightforward as chatting with a good friend in your kitchen. I always come back to it when I want a meal that’s both practical and satisfying. I hope you give it a try soon and make it your own—you’ll be surprised how quickly it becomes a favorite around your table, just like it did in mine.

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