Crockpot Cabbage And Sausage Recipe
Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty meal that practically cooks itself. This Crockpot Cabbage and Sausage recipe is the epitome of easy, no-fuss cooking that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Perfect for busy weekdays or when you simply want to enjoy a warm, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender cabbage, savory sausage, and a medley of vegetables creates a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Let’s dive into the details of this easy yet satisfying recipe.
Prep Time
The prep time for this Crockpot Cabbage and Sausage recipe is incredibly minimal, making it ideal for those hectic days. You’ll need about 15 minutes to chop your veggies and sausage, and then you can leave the rest to your slow cooker.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this flavorful meal:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 pound of smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, slice the sausage, dice the onion and potatoes, and slice the carrots. Mince the garlic cloves as well. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make assembling your crockpot much quicker.
Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot
In your crockpot, layer the chopped cabbage at the bottom. Next, add the sliced sausage, followed by the diced onions, carrots, and potatoes. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the top. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the ingredients. This will help to infuse all the flavors as it cooks.
Step 3: Season
Add the paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the top. The paprika adds a nice smoky flavor that complements the sausage, while the thyme adds a touch of herbal earthiness. Season to taste, but remember that smoked sausage can be quite salty, so you might want to go easy on the salt initially.
Step 4: Cook
Cover your crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low is recommended as it allows the flavors to meld together more thoroughly. As it cooks, the cabbage will become tender and the sausage will impart its smoky flavor throughout the dish.
Step 5: Serve
Once the cooking time is up, check the tenderness of the vegetables. They should be soft and well-cooked. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the flavors one last time. Serve the Crockpot Cabbage and Sausage hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of color and added freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving of this Crockpot Cabbage and Sausage recipe (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
These values can vary based on the exact ingredients and quantities used. This dish is relatively balanced, offering a good mix of protein from the sausage, fiber from the vegetables, and essential vitamins and minerals. To reduce the fat content, you can opt for a leaner sausage or turkey sausage.
Recipe Yield
This recipe yields about 6 hearty servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or for meal prepping. The leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.
Total Time
Including the prep time and cooking time, you’re looking at a total time of about 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. The extended cooking time allows for a hands-off approach, giving you plenty of time to attend to other tasks or simply relax.
Conclusion
There you have it - a simple, delicious, and hearty Crockpot Cabbage and Sausage recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal with ease. Whether you’re serving a hungry family or preparing meals ahead of time, this recipe delivers on both taste and simplicity. Give it a try and savor the comforting blend of tender cabbage, smoky sausage, and perfectly cooked vegetables. Happy cooking!
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