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Easy One-Pan Oktoberfest Sausage and Cabbage Skillet Recipe

Easy One-Pan Oktoberfest Sausage and Cabbage Skillet - featured image

A quick, one-pan comfort food dish featuring crispy smoked sausage and caramelized cabbage with a tangy-sweet glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights and capturing the spirit of autumn.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs smoked sausage, kielbasa, or bratwurst, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and sliced into thin strips
  • 2 medium yellow onions, sliced into thin strips
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup apple cider or dry white wine
  • 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Slice the cabbage into thin strips, removing the hard core. Slice onions into thin half-rings and mince the garlic.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausages in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until browned and crispy. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove sausages and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, cook sliced onions over medium heat for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Deglaze with a splash of water or broth if needed.
  4. Add cabbage strips to the pan, increasing heat to medium-high. Stir frequently for 8-10 minutes until cabbage is tender but still has a slight crunch.
  5. Return sausages to the pan. Add garlic, brown sugar, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Pour in apple cider and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce liquid and create a glossy coating.
  6. Remove from heat, drizzle with apple cider vinegar, and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure the cabbage caramelizes rather than steams. Cook in batches if necessary. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days but do not freeze well due to cabbage texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Oktoberfest, sausage, cabbage, one-pan, skillet, German recipe, comfort food, fall recipes, quick dinner, kielbasa