Amazing Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew

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Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew has been my go-to comfort food for years, especially on those crisp autumn evenings when I crave something warm and hearty. I remember first trying a version of this dish at a local Italian festival, and the rich aroma of savory sausage mingling with the earthy cabbage instantly captivated me. It was so satisfying, and I knew I had to recreate that magic at home. This recipe is incredibly easy, making it perfect for a weeknight meal, and it delivers such a depth of flavor with minimal effort. Forget those bland, boring stews; this one is packed with personality and will have your whole family asking for seconds. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew

This hearty stew is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly simple to throw together, making those busy weeknights so much easier. The combination of savory Italian sausage and tender cabbage is pure comfort in a bowl. You’ll love how the subtle spices create a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor. It’s one of those easy Italian stew recipes that tastes even better the next day, perfect for meal prep. You’ll find yourself making this comforting cabbage recipe again and again!

Ingredients for Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew

Gather these simple ingredients for a stew that’s both comforting and flavorful:

1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics and sausage
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed – choose sweet or spicy based on your preference; this is the flavor powerhouse!
1 large onion, chopped – about 1.5 cups, adds sweetness and depth
2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory base
1 teaspoon dried thyme – complements the sausage beautifully
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary – adds a fragrant, woodsy note
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a gentle kick of heat
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth – the liquid base that ties everything together
1 cup water – to thin the stew to your desired consistency
1 head of cabbage, cored and chopped – about 6 cups, this is the hearty star of our comforting cabbage recipe
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – adds moisture and a touch of acidity
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – to perfectly season your Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew

How to Make Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew

This recipe is designed to be straightforward and quick, perfect for any night of the week. You’ll have a delicious, hearty meal on the table in under an hour!

Step 1: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage, with the casings removed. Cook, breaking up the sausage into smaller pieces with your spoon, until it’s nicely browned. This step builds the foundational savory flavor for your stew. Once browned, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings behind.
Step 2: Add 1 large chopped onion to the same pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. You’ll start to smell its sweetness as it cooks down.
Step 3: Stir in 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary. If you like a little heat, now’s the time to add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook for just 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 4: Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of water. Bring this liquid mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – that’s pure flavor!
Step 5: Add 1 head of chopped cabbage (about 6 cups) and 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained, to the pot. Return the cooked Italian sausage you set aside earlier back into the stew.
Step 6: Bring the Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew back to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and has softened beautifully. The aromas filling your kitchen will be incredible!
Step 7: Taste the stew and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Serve this comforting cabbage recipe hot, perhaps with a side of crusty bread.

Pro Tips for the Best Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew

Want to elevate your Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew from good to truly spectacular? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. Follow these simple tips, and you’ll be serving up a stew that’s bursting with flavor and perfectly tender!

For an even richer flavor, consider using a good quality spicy Italian sausage. It adds a wonderful depth and a touch of heat that complements the cabbage beautifully.
Don’t overcook the cabbage! You want it tender but still with a slight bite. Overcooked cabbage can become mushy and lose its vibrant flavor.
Taste and season generously at the end. Sausage and broth can be salty, so adjust accordingly. A little fresh black pepper makes a big impact.

What’s the secret to perfect Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew?

The real magic lies in browning the Italian sausage well and then letting the stew simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld. Don’t rush the process; patience here yields the most delicious results for this comforting cabbage recipe. For more cooking tips, check out our recipes section.

Can I make Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew is fantastic for meal prep because its flavors deepen overnight. Simply cool it completely, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat gently on the stove. You can find more tips on meal preparation on our About Me page.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew?

A common pitfall is not browning the sausage enough, which misses out on crucial flavor development. Also, be careful not to over-salt initially; it’s easier to add more salt at the end than to fix an overly salty stew. For more general cooking advice, visit our Home page.

Best Ways to Serve Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew

This hearty Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple additions. For a truly satisfying experience, I love serving it with a side of crusty, rustic bread for dipping into that flavorful broth. It’s also delicious alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, consider a small portion of creamy polenta or even some cheesy garlic bread. It’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into any comforting meal plan. Learn more about our privacy policy for more details on our site.

Nutrition Facts for Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew

This hearty and flavorful Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew is a surprisingly light option, making it a great choice for a healthy meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, based on the recipe yielding six portions:

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 700mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the type of Italian sausage and broth. For more information on our site, please visit our terms of use.

How to Store and Reheat Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew

One of the best things about this comforting cabbage recipe is how well it stores and reheats, making it perfect for busy individuals or those who love to meal prep. Once your delicious Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew has finished cooking, allow it to cool completely at room temperature. This is crucial for food safety and prevents excess condensation in your storage containers. For refrigeration, transfer the cooled stew into airtight containers. It will keep wonderfully in the fridge for about 3-4 days. This makes it ideal for packing lunches or having a quick, healthy dinner ready to go.

If you want to store your Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Ensure the stew is completely cooled, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first. Then, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. This sausage cabbage soup reheats beautifully, often tasting even better the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew

Can I use different types of sausage in this stew?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage is my favorite for its savory flavor profile, feel free to experiment. Sweet or hot Italian sausage works wonderfully, of course. You could also try a good quality breakfast sausage or even a kielbasa for a different, but still delicious, take on this comforting cabbage recipe. Just ensure it’s a sausage you enjoy, as it’s a key flavor component.

What if I don’t like cabbage? Can I substitute it?

Yes, you can! Cabbage provides a lovely texture and earthy flavor, but if it’s not your favorite, kale or Swiss chard are excellent substitutes for this hearty cabbage stew. Simply chop them and add them in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, as they’ll soften more quickly than cabbage. You could also try adding other hearty greens like collard greens, though they might require a slightly longer cooking time.

How can I make this Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew spicier?

If you love a little heat, this sausage cabbage soup is easily customizable. I recommend adding more red pepper flakes when you add the garlic and herbs. You can also use hot Italian sausage instead of mild. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or even a swirl of your favorite hot sauce right before serving. It’s a versatile dish that lets you control the spice level.

Is this stew freezer-friendly?

Yes, this Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew freezes remarkably well! Once cooled, portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it gently on the stovetop. The flavors often meld even further upon reheating, making it just as delicious as when it was freshly made.

Variations of Italian Sausage Cabbage Stew You Can Try

This comforting cabbage recipe is so versatile, and I love playing around with different versions to keep things exciting! Whether you’re looking for a lighter option, a different cooking method, or just a new flavor profile, there’s a variation that’s perfect for you. It’s amazing how a few simple tweaks can transform this hearty cabbage stew.

Vegetarian/Vegan Twist: For a meatless version of this Italian stew, simply omit the Italian sausage. Sauté your onions and garlic in olive oil as usual, then add your favorite plant-based sausage crumbles along with the cabbage and tomatoes. You can also boost the flavor with extra herbs and a pinch of smoked paprika.
Slow Cooker Version: This recipe is fantastic for a slow cooker! Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic on the stovetop first for best flavor. Then, transfer everything to your slow cooker along with the broth, water, cabbage, and tomatoes. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the cabbage is tender.
Smoked Sausage Swap: If you’re not in the mood for Italian sausage, try using a smoked sausage like kielbasa or andouille. This will lend a different, but equally delicious, smoky depth to your stew. It’s a wonderful way to create a hearty sausage cabbage soup with a distinct flavor.
Creamy Finish: For an extra decadent and comforting twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. This makes the stew wonderfully rich and smooth, creating a delightful contrast to the tender cabbage and savory sausage.