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Easy Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Cabbage Recipe

Easy Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Cabbage

Smoked kielbasa, green cabbage, onion, and garlic cook slowly in a light chicken broth for a cozy, flavorful Crockpot meal. Optional browning adds extra color and a deeper smoky taste.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 medium head, about 2 to 2 1/2 pounds Green cabbage, cored and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 pound Fully cooked smoked kielbasa, cut into 1/2- to 1-inch slices
  • 1 medium Yellow onion, sliced or chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasoning
  • 1/2 to 1 cup Chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon, or to taste Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
Optional Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon Butter or olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked paprika

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Remove the tough core from the cabbage and cut the leaves into bite-size pieces. Slice the kielbasa into 1/2- to 1-inch rounds, then slice or chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  2. For extra color and a stronger smoky flavor, brown the kielbasa in a skillet for 3–5 minutes. This step is optional; the sausage can go directly into the slow cooker for a true one-pot preparation.
  3. Place the cabbage, onion, garlic, and kielbasa in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
  4. Pour 1/2 cup chicken broth over the ingredients for a moist, non-soupy dish, or use up to 1 cup for a soupier result. Dot the top with butter or drizzle with olive oil.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–7 hours or HIGH for about 3–4 hours. Stir once during cooking if convenient, and stop cooking when the cabbage is tender and the kielbasa is heated through.
  6. Taste the finished dish before serving and adjust the salt and pepper. Spoon the kielbasa and cabbage into warm bowls, including a little of the savory cooking liquid if desired.

Notes

Cabbage releases considerable moisture as it cooks, so begin with 1/2 cup broth unless you want a soupier dish. Avoid cooking substantially longer than necessary because the cabbage can become overly soft. Optional additions include 1–1 1/2 pounds cubed potatoes, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar near the end, or part of a 14–15-ounce can of diced tomatoes in place of some broth.