{20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet

Introduction:

When time is short but hunger is looming, turn to our easy and satisfying 20-Minute Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet recipe. This hearty one-pan dish combines savory kielbasa, crisp cabbage, and tender potatoes for a meal that’s as quick to make as it is delicious to eat. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and delivers maximum flavor. Join us as we guide you through the simple steps to create this comforting and satisfying skillet meal in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound potatoes (any variety, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces)
• 1/2-1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon refined coconut oil or light olive oil (plus more only if needed)
• 1 small onion (chopped into 1/2-inch pieces)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 pound kielbasa (sliced thin)
• 1/2 medium head green cabbage (sliced into ribbons, about 4 cups worth)
• 2 tablespoons water

Directions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into 1/2-inch pieces. Rinse them and place them in a medium-size glass bowl. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, then stir or toss to coat. Microwave the potatoes for 4 minutes, stir, and microwave for an additional 2-4 minutes until they’re fork-tender.
2. Saute the Onions and Kielbasa: While the potatoes are cooking, warm a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil, and once it’s shimmering, add the onions. Saute for a few minutes until the onion is barely tender and lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and sliced kielbasa. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes.
3. Add the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, add them to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding a small additional drizzle of oil only if needed. Spread the potatoes across the pan and allow them to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
4. Incorporate the Cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Toss to combine, then add 2 tablespoons of water to the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and cook for about 2 minutes, until the cabbage is bright green and barely wilted.
5. Final Touches and Serving: Taste and add additional salt if needed. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful skillet meal!

Serving Tips:

1. Serve Hot: This skillet meal is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan. Serve it immediately after cooking to ensure that all the ingredients are at their freshest and most flavorful.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, consider garnishing the Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and added freshness. This simple touch enhances the presentation and elevates the dish.
3. Pair with Bread or Rice: For a more substantial meal, serve the skillet alongside crusty bread, dinner rolls, or fluffy rice. These accompaniments can help soak up the flavorful juices from the dish and provide extra satisfaction.
4. Add a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the skillet meal by serving it with a crisp side salad dressed with vinaigrette or a tangy dressing. The refreshing greens and vegetables complement the savory flavors of the dish.
5. Serve in Individual Bowls: For a cozy and comforting presentation, serve the Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet in individual bowls. This makes it easy for everyone to dig in and enjoy their portion of the delicious meal.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerate Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheat Gently: When reheating leftover skillet meal, gently warm it in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even heating.
3. Add Moisture if Needed: If the dish seems dry when reheating, you can add a splash of broth or water to moisten it slightly. This helps prevent the ingredients from drying out and maintains their texture and flavor.
4. Freeze for Longer Storage: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for longer-term storage. Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
5. Thaw and Reheat with Care: When ready to enjoy frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, adding extra seasoning or herbs as needed to refresh the flavors.

FAQs:

1. Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe?
   • Yes, you can customize the recipe by using your preferred type of sausage, such as smoked sausage, chorizo, or Italian sausage. Adjust the cooking time and seasoning accordingly to accommodate different types of sausage.
2. Is this dish spicy?
   • The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on the type of sausage and seasoning used. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for a mild sausage and reduce the amount of paprika or omit it altogether. Conversely, you can add extra paprika or other spices for a spicier flavor.
3. Can I add additional vegetables to the skillet?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to enhance the nutritional value and add more texture to the dish. Simply adjust the cooking time to ensure all the vegetables are cooked to your liking.
4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
   • Yes, this Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet is great for meal prep. You can prepare a batch in advance and portion it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week. Reheat servings as needed for quick and convenient meals.
5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
   • While this recipe features kielbasa sausage as the main ingredient, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version by substituting the sausage with plant-based sausage or omitting it altogether. You can also add more vegetables and seasonings to enhance the flavor of the dish.