This Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is a shining example of how straightforward ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and color. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up this hearty, satisfying dish that balances the smoky richness of sausage with the fresh crunch of cabbage and other vibrant vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fuss-free recipe to impress family and friends, this stir fry hits the perfect note every time while being delightfully simple to make.

This image shows a close-up view of a cooked dish with two main layers. The bottom layer is made of soft, cooked cabbage pieces with a pale white and light golden color, showing a slightly shiny and tender texture. The top layer consists of browned sausage slices, round with a deep reddish-brown color and small grill marks, giving a firm and juicy look. Scattered fresh green herbs are sprinkled over the dish, adding a touch of bright green color and freshness. The food is set against a white marbled surface, and the photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are not only easy to find but also contribute essential flavors and textures that make this dish so memorable. Each component plays its role, from the savory sausage to the crisp vegetables and the bold sauce that ties it all together.

Smoked sausage: Adds a delicious smoky, meaty flavor and satisfying chew to the stir fry.
Cabbage: Provides a fresh crunch and bright color, creating a perfect base for the dish.
Onion: Delivers sweetness and depth when sautéed, enhancing the overall taste.
Garlic: Offers an aromatic kick that lifts the flavors instantly.
Olive oil or avocado oil: Healthy fats that help brown the sausage and cook the veggies evenly.
Bell pepper (optional): Adds subtle sweetness and a pop of vibrant red or yellow color.
Carrot (optional): Introduces a hint of natural sweetness and an appealing julienned texture.
Soy sauce or tamari: Brings a savory umami punch that ties all ingredients harmoniously.
Sesame oil: Just a touch to infuse a nutty aroma that makes the dish irresistible.
Honey or low-carb sweetener (optional): Balances savory notes with a delicate hint of sweetness.
Chili flakes (optional): Adds just the right amount of heat for those who crave a little spice.

How to Make Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by slicing the smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds or strips – this will help them cook evenly and blend beautifully into the stir fry. Then, thinly slice the cabbage and onion, and if you’re using optional veggies like bell pepper and carrots, prep those by slicing them thinly or julienning for quick, uniform cooking.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce or tamari, sesame oil, and if you like, a touch of honey for sweetness. This simple sauce is what will bring everything together, coating the sausage and veggies with a balanced umami richness and subtle nuttiness.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage Until Golden

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add your olive or avocado oil, then cook the sausage pieces until they develop a golden, slightly crispy exterior. This step is crucial for that irresistible texture contrast. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside for now.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

Using the same pan, toss in minced garlic and sliced onions. Cook them just until fragrant and soft, about 1 to 2 minutes. This will release wonderful aromas that build the foundation of flavor for your stir fry.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage and Vegetables

Add the cabbage to the skillet (and any optional veggies you opted for). Stir and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the cabbage softens but still holds a lovely crunch. This is where the freshness shines, giving the dish texture and body.

Step 6: Combine Sausage and Sauce

Return the browned sausage to the pan and pour in your prepared sauce. Stir everything thoroughly so that the sausage and vegetables are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce. Let it cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes to meld those fantastic flavors.

How to Serve Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Sprinkle sesame seeds or fresh herbs like chopped scallions or cilantro right before serving to add a beautiful visual contrast and a fresh burst of flavor that amplifies the dish’s appeal.

Side Dishes

This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even simple noodles. A side of pickled vegetables also adds a delicious tangy counterpoint to the rich and savory stir fry.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner, serve the stir fry straight in the skillet to keep things warm and rustic. Alternatively, you can plate it over a bed of rice or noodles, shaping it into neat mounds for an elegant look. You could also stuff it into lettuce cups to add a refreshing crispness and turn it into a fun hand-held meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The stir fry stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to make a batch ahead of time. Cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best texture in the cabbage and sausage.

FAQs

Can I use different types of sausage in this stir fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spicy Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based alternative depending on your preference. Just make sure to slice it into uniform pieces so it cooks evenly with the vegetables.

Is it okay to skip the optional vegetables?

Yes! The core of this Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe rests on cabbage, sausage, onion, and garlic, but adding bell pepper and carrots boosts both color and nutrition. If you want a simpler dish, the optional veggies can be omitted without sacrificing too much flavor.

What can I substitute if I don’t have soy sauce?

Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative that works just as well. If neither is available, coconut aminos can provide a slightly sweeter but similarly savory flavor.

How spicy is this stir fry?

This recipe is mild by default, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding chili flakes to taste. If you like it spicy, don’t be shy to add a pinch or two when mixing the sauce or while cooking.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To adapt this Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe for vegan diets, swap out the sausage for a plant-based sausage or tempeh and ensure you use tamari or a vegan soy sauce. The rest of the vegetables and sauce ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s quick, tasty, and flexible enough to fit any weeknight schedule or craving. Once you see how easy and rewarding it is, this recipe will surely become a go-to in your kitchen just like it did in mine!

Easy Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe