This hearty slow cooker sausage and cabbage combines smoky sausage, tender green cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic. Together, these affordable ingredients create a warm and filling family dinner with very little active preparation.
As the meal cooks, the cabbage softens and absorbs the savory flavor of the smoked sausage. Meanwhile, the potatoes and carrots become tender in the seasoned chicken broth.
Smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic, and black pepper give the dish plenty of flavor. As a result, each serving tastes rich, comforting, and homemade.
Although this dinner is especially satisfying on cooler evenings, it is simple enough for any busy day. Therefore, it works well for weeknight meals, relaxed weekends, or advance meal preparation.
Why You Will Love Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage
For another hearty slow cooker meal, try our slow cooker mini meatloaves and potatoes.
First, the recipe uses familiar and budget-friendly ingredients. Smoked sausage, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and broth create a complete meal without requiring expensive additions.
Next, the slow cooker handles most of the cooking. Once the ingredients are layered inside, the dish needs very little attention.
In addition, the vegetables cook directly beneath the sausage. Consequently, they absorb the smoky juices and seasoned broth as they become tender.
Because the recipe makes six servings, it is useful for family dinner. Leftovers also store, freeze, and reheat easily.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage
Smoked Sausage and Vegetables
- Smoked sausage: 1½ pounds or 680 grams, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- Green cabbage: 1 medium head, chopped into large pieces
- Potatoes: 4 medium, peeled and cubed
- Large onion: 1, sliced
- Carrots: 3, sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Broth and Seasonings
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 2 cups
- Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ½ teaspoon, adjusted to taste
- Onion powder: ½ teaspoon
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, cut into small pieces
Fresh Garnish
- Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon, chopped
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
Begin by lightly greasing the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray.
This simple step helps prevent the vegetables from sticking around the bottom and edges during the long cooking period.
2. Add the Potatoes and Carrots
Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Next, add the sliced carrots. Since these vegetables require more time to soften, keeping them near the bottom helps them cook evenly.
3. Layer the Onion, Garlic, and Cabbage
Arrange the sliced onion and minced garlic over the potatoes and carrots.
Afterward, add the chopped green cabbage. The slow cooker may appear very full at first.
However, the cabbage will soften and reduce in volume as it cooks.
4. Add the Smoked Sausage
Place the sliced smoked sausage evenly over the cabbage.
As the sausage heats, its smoky flavor moves through the vegetables and into the chicken broth below.
5. Season the Sausage and Cabbage
Sprinkle the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the sausage and vegetables.
Distribute the seasonings as evenly as possible. As a result, the flavor will reach each layer during cooking.
6. Pour in the Chicken Broth
Slowly pour the low-sodium chicken broth around the edges of the slow cooker.
The broth will move toward the bottom without washing all the seasonings away from the top.
7. Add the Butter
Cut the butter into small pieces and distribute them across the top.
While the dish cooks, the butter melts into the broth and adds extra richness to the cabbage and vegetables.
8. Cook the Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage
Cover the slow cooker securely with the lid.
Cook the meal on low for approximately 6–7 hours. Alternatively, use the high setting for approximately 3–4 hours.
The dish is ready when the cabbage, potatoes, and carrots are tender. The potatoes should be easy to pierce with a fork.
9. Stir and Adjust the Seasoning
Before serving, gently stir the sausage, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and broth together.
Next, taste the dish and adjust the salt or black pepper when needed.
Because smoked sausage can contain plenty of sodium, add extra salt only after tasting.
10. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the warm sausage and vegetables into serving bowls or onto plates.
Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over each portion. Spoon some of the seasoned broth over the vegetables before serving.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage
Place the potatoes near the bottom. Potatoes take longer to become tender, so they should remain close to the heat source.
Cut the vegetables evenly. Similar-sized pieces are more likely to finish cooking at the same time.
Do not worry about the full cooker. The cabbage reduces significantly as it softens.
Adjust the salt carefully. Smoked sausage already contains sodium, while the recipe also includes chicken broth.
Keep the lid closed. Opening the slow cooker repeatedly releases heat and may extend the cooking time.
Check the potatoes before serving. They should be fully tender and easy to pierce with a fork.
Stir gently near the end. Careful mixing prevents the tender potatoes and cabbage from breaking apart.
Flavor Variations for Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage
The original recipe can be served exactly as written. However, the following optional additions provide simple ways to change the flavor.
Add red pepper flakes. A small pinch creates a mild spicy kick without overpowering the smoky sausage.
Try kielbasa. Kielbasa works naturally in this recipe and provides a rich smoked flavor.
Use turkey sausage. This option creates a slightly lighter version while keeping the same cooking method.
Choose chicken sausage. Chicken sausage also works when a milder flavor is preferred.
Finish with cheddar. Stir in a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese immediately before serving for extra richness.
What to Serve With Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage
This recipe already includes sausage, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and broth. Therefore, it can be served as a complete meal.
Crusty bread is an excellent addition because it can absorb the seasoned cooking liquid.
Cornbread also pairs well with the smoky sausage. In addition, its mild sweetness balances the savory cabbage and potatoes.
For a fresher side, serve a simple green salad with a light dressing.
A small spoonful of sour cream can also be added to each serving for a cool and creamy contrast.
Preparing Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage Ahead
The vegetables can be washed and cut earlier in the day.
First, chop the cabbage, slice the onion and carrots, and mince the garlic. Store them in covered containers in the refrigerator.
The potatoes can also be peeled and cubed ahead of time. However, keep them submerged in cold water to prevent discoloration.
When ready to cook, drain the potatoes thoroughly. Then assemble the recipe inside the slow cooker as directed.
How to Store Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage
Allow the leftovers to cool before transferring them to airtight containers.
Store the sausage, cabbage, vegetables, and broth together in the refrigerator.
Properly refrigerated leftovers can be kept for approximately three to four days.
Keeping some broth in each container helps the vegetables and sausage remain moist.
How to Freeze Sausage and Cabbage
The cooled meal can be divided into freezer-safe containers.
Leave a small amount of room near the top because the cooking liquid may expand during freezing.
Freeze the portions for up to two or three months for the best quality.
Keep in mind that potatoes may become slightly softer after freezing and thawing.
How to Reheat Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage
Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Warm the sausage and vegetables gently in a covered saucepan over medium-low heat.
Alternatively, microwave individual servings in short intervals. Stir between intervals so everything heats evenly.
When the leftovers appear dry, add a small splash of chicken broth before reheating.
Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage FAQs
Can I Use Kielbasa in This Recipe?
Yes. Kielbasa is a smoked sausage and works well with cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and paprika.
Slice it into approximately ½-inch rounds before layering it over the vegetables.
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Sausage?
Yes. Turkey sausage or chicken sausage can replace the regular smoked sausage.
Nevertheless, the final flavor may be slightly lighter depending on the product used.
How Do I Know When the Vegetables Are Ready?
The potatoes and carrots should be easy to pierce with a fork.
Meanwhile, the cabbage should be tender and reduced in volume.
Can I Make This Sausage and Cabbage Spicy?
Yes. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the dry seasonings.
For additional heat, serve more red pepper flakes or hot sauce at the table.
Can I Add Cheese?
Yes. Stir shredded cheddar cheese into the finished dish immediately before serving.
The heat from the sausage, cabbage, and broth will help the cheese melt.
Can I Cook the Recipe on High?
Yes. Cook the dish on high for approximately 3–4 hours.
Alternatively, the low setting takes approximately 6–7 hours.
Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time on Low: Approximately 6–7 hours
Cooking Time on High: Approximately 3–4 hours
Total Time on Low: Approximately 7 hours 15 minutes using the maximum stated cooking time
Servings: 6 servings
Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage Nutrition
The following values are approximate and are based on one serving:
Calories: Approximately 390 kcal
Protein: Approximately 16 grams
Carbohydrates: Approximately 27 grams
Fat: Approximately 24 grams
Fiber: Approximately 5 grams
The exact values may vary depending on the sausage, broth, potatoes, and other products used.
Final Thoughts on Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage
This slow cooker sausage and cabbage recipe transforms simple ingredients into a warm and satisfying dinner. Smoky sausage, tender cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, and seasoned broth come together in every serving.
Moreover, the recipe is budget-friendly and requires very little hands-on cooking. Although the ingredient list remains simple, the final dish delivers plenty of hearty flavor.
Serve it while warm and spoon some of the broth over each portion. In the end, it may become one of those dependable slow cooker meals your family requests regularly.
