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Easy Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet

Savory one-pan dinner with caramelized cabbage, smoked kielbasa, and colorful vegetables, perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: European, Polish
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 medium green cabbage cored and sliced
  • 14 oz kielbasa sausage sliced into rounds
  • 1 large yellow onion sliced
  • 1 large orange bell pepper sliced
  • 2 medium carrots julienned
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
Liquids and Seasonings
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot.
  2. Add sliced kielbasa to the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned and crispy on the edges, then remove and set aside.
  3. Add sliced onions to the same skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and turn translucent.
  4. Toss in the bell pepper and carrots, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables start to soften slightly.
  5. Add minced garlic and paprika to the vegetables, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet, stirring to combine with other vegetables and coat with the seasoned oil.
  7. Pour chicken broth over the cabbage mixture, then season with salt and black pepper.
  8. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage becomes tender and begins to caramelize on the edges.
  9. Return the browned kielbasa to the skillet, stirring to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
  10. Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of apple cider vinegar. Add red pepper flakes for heat. This dish reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread.