If you’re searching for a dinner that’s just as comforting as it is easy, let me introduce you to Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet with Mustard Vinaigrette! This one-pan wonder brings together juicy slices of kielbasa, sweet and tender cabbage, sautéed onions, and a tangy, punchy mustard vinaigrette that takes this humble skillet meal to new heights. It’s a dish that feels old-fashioned in the best way, but with a modern pop of flavor. Perfect for busy nights, lazy weekends, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something hearty but not heavy, Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet with Mustard Vinaigrette is sure to become your new weeknight favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how just a few well-chosen ingredients build layers of flavor and gorgeous color in this Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet with Mustard Vinaigrette. Each item plays a role, from the smoky sausage to that craveable vinaigrette, making every bite deliciously memorable.
- Kielbasa sausage (14 oz, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds): Smoky, garlicky, and the savory backbone of this skillet—use your favorite brand for best results.
- Green cabbage (1 small, cored and thinly sliced): Adds sweetness and heartiness as it softens and caramelizes, soaking up all the flavors.
- Yellow onion (1 medium, sliced): When sautéed, it brings a deep, gentle flavor that hugs the kielbasa and cabbage.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons, plus 2 tablespoons for vinaigrette): Keeps everything silky and browns the sausage and veggies perfectly.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds extra richness and helps the cabbage and onions caramelize beautifully.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a subtle warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): The classic pair—season as you go for the perfect bite.
- Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons, for vinaigrette): Key to the zingy vinaigrette, adding depth and mellow spice.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon, for vinaigrette): Cuts the richness and brightens the dish.
- Honey (1 teaspoon, for vinaigrette): Just a touch to balance all those savory and tangy notes.
- Pinch of salt and pepper (for vinaigrette): Rounds out the tartness and ensures the vinaigrette is well-seasoned.
How to Make Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet with Mustard Vinaigrette
Step 1: Brown the Kielbasa
Start by heating some olive oil in a big, sturdy skillet over medium heat. Arrange the sliced kielbasa rounds in a single layer so they can sizzle and brown evenly. Let them caramelize for about 4–5 minutes, flipping once, until both sides are gloriously golden and your kitchen smells amazing. Scoop out the browned sausage onto a plate but don’t wipe out the skillet—those drippings will flavor everything!
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Cabbage
Add butter right into the same skillet and swirl it around until melted. Toss in your sliced onions and cook them for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they go translucent and sweet. Spread the cabbage over the onions, sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring only now and then, so the edges of the cabbage get tender with craveable caramelized bits.
Step 3: Mix Up the Mustard Vinaigrette
While the cabbage softens, grab a small bowl and whisk together Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, and a tiny pinch each of salt and pepper. The vinaigrette should be creamy, tangy, and just sweet enough—taste and tweak it if you like.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Scoot the browned kielbasa back into the skillet, nestling it amongst the cabbage and onions. Pour the mustard vinaigrette over everything and give the whole pan a gentle toss so every bite is kissed with that irresistible tang. Let the skillet cook for another 2 minutes for the flavors to meld and everything to get piping hot before you serve it up.
How to Serve Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet with Mustard Vinaigrette
Garnishes
For a final flourish, sprinkle on some fresh chopped parsley or dill for a pop of green and a lift of herbal freshness. A crack of black pepper or a quick dusting of paprika brings a lovely dash of color, too. If you enjoy a bit of tang, set out extra mustard on the side—it’s never the wrong move!
Side Dishes
You can easily make this meal a feast by pairing your Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet with Mustard Vinaigrette with some fluffy mashed potatoes, garlicky roasted potatoes, or a thick slice of crusty bread to mop up the vinaigrette. A simple cucumber salad or a mound of tangy sauerkraut fits perfectly, adding crunch and balancing richness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get playful, pile the skillet mixture into toasted rolls for an amazing sandwich, or spoon it over cooked egg noodles for an Eastern European-inspired pasta night. Serving the skillet in individual mini cast-iron pans makes for a dinner-party worthy presentation that’s every bit as fun as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of your Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet with Mustard Vinaigrette will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, so it’s nearly as delicious the next day—if not more!
Freezing
For longer storage, let the skillet cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual servings, but stirring midway helps everything heat evenly. If you prepped extra vinaigrette, drizzle it on after reheating for a fresh kick!
FAQs
Can I use turkey kielbasa instead of traditional pork or beef?
Absolutely! Turkey kielbasa works wonderfully in this skillet, making the dish a bit lighter while still keeping all that signature smoky, savory flavor. Just keep an eye on cooking time as it may brown a tad quicker.
What type Main Course
Green cabbage is classic for this recipe, but you can totally switch things up with red cabbage for a gorgeous jewel-toned twist. Savoy cabbage is another great option and has a lovely, tender bite.
Is this recipe gluten free?
Yes, this Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet with Mustard Vinaigrette is naturally gluten free—just double check your sausage and mustard to make sure they don’t have any sneaky gluten-containing fillers.
How can I make the dish vegetarian?
Swap the kielbasa for your favorite plant-based sausage or smoked tofu. The flavors of the caramelized cabbage, zesty vinaigrette, and onions stick around, so you won’t miss the meat!
What else can I add to customize the skillet?
Feel free to stir in sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, apple slices, or even a handful of cooked potatoes for more color, sweetness, or heartiness. The skillet is endlessly adaptable, so let your fridge inspire you.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet with Mustard Vinaigrette! Whether for a cozy family dinner or a quick meal with friends, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and always delicious. Give it a try—you just might find yourself coming back to it again and again.
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Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet with Mustard Vinaigrette Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet with Mustard Vinaigrette is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The combination of savory kielbasa, tender cabbage, and tangy mustard vinaigrette creates a satisfying dish with Eastern European flair.
Ingredients
Kielbasa and Cabbage Skillet:
- 14 oz kielbasa sausage (sliced into 1/2-inch rounds)
- 1 small green cabbage (cored and thinly sliced)
- 1 medium yellow onion (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Mustard Vinaigrette:
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Cook Kielbasa: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced kielbasa until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Cabbage: In the same skillet, sauté onions until softened. Add cabbage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until tender and caramelized.
- Prepare Vinaigrette: Whisk together mustard, vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Return kielbasa to the skillet, add vinaigrette, and toss to combine. Cook briefly to heat through.
- Serve: Enjoy warm as a delicious meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding white wine or chicken broth while cooking the cabbage.
- Red cabbage can be substituted for a colorful variation.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or roasted potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
