Crock pot cabbage recipes are a staple for anyone seeking hearty, hands-off meals that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. Slow-cooked cabbage becomes meltingly tender, absorbing the savory flavors of broth, vegetables, and meats. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side, this classic crock pot cabbage dish is as simple as it is satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage (about 2–2.5 lbs), cored and chopped (about 10 cups)
- 1 lb smoked sausage (kielbasa or andouille), sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
Instructions
- Prep the vegetables: Core and chop the cabbage into large bite-sized pieces. Slice the carrots, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Brown the sausage (optional, but recommended for flavor): In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned on both sides. Transfer to the crock pot.
- Add the vegetables: Layer the chopped cabbage, carrots, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker.
- Add the remaining ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir gently to combine everything. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the cabbage is tender and flavors meld together. Stir once or twice during cooking if possible.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Tips
- Substitutions: Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Vegetarian sausage or white beans work well for a meatless version.
- Broth Choices: Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth to keep the dish vegetarian.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If your slow cooker is smaller than 6 quarts, halve the recipe to avoid overflow and ensure even cooking.
- Common Mistake: Avoid cutting the cabbage too small, as it will shrink considerably during cooking and can become mushy.
Serving Suggestions
This crock pot cabbage recipe is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with other dishes:
- Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a filling dinner.
- Spoon alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles.
- Add a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
- Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Variations
- Vegetarian Cabbage Stew: Omit sausage and substitute with 1–2 cans of drained and rinsed white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans). Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Beef and Cabbage: Swap sausage for 1 lb of browned ground beef or stew beef. Add a dash of caraway seeds for a traditional flavor.
- Spicy Cajun: Use andouille sausage and add extra red pepper flakes, plus a chopped bell pepper for a Southern twist.
- Cabbage Roll-Style: Add 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white rice and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano. The rice will cook in the broth and thicken the stew.
Storage and Reheating
Let leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through. For larger portions, reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat until steaming hot, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the stew.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, red cabbage can be used, though it will result in a slightly different flavor and a more vibrant color. Red cabbage tends to be a bit firmer and sweeter, so you may want to cook it on the longer end of the time range to ensure tenderness. - Do I have to brown the sausage first?
No, you can skip this step and add the sausage straight to the slow cooker. However, browning adds extra flavor and helps the sausage hold its shape during the long cooking time. - Can I add potatoes to this recipe?
Absolutely! Add 2–3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes, with the other vegetables. They will cook perfectly in the slow cooker and make the dish even heartier. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use a certified gluten-free sausage and broth. Always check labels to be sure, especially with processed meats and broths. - How do I prevent cabbage from getting mushy?
Chop the cabbage into larger pieces and avoid overcooking. Check for doneness at the minimum recommended time, especially if your slow cooker runs hot. - Can I double the recipe?
If you have an 8-quart or larger slow cooker, you can double the recipe. Otherwise, stick to the original quantities to ensure even cooking and avoid overflow.
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Crock Pot Cabbage Recipes: Easy Comfort Food for Any Night