Easy Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Stew Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor profile, consider adding a dash of apple cider vinegar or a splash of white wine at the beginning of the slow cooking process. The acidity helps to brighten the overall flavor of the stew and balances the richness of the sausage. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can remove a small portion of the vegetables and mash them before stirring them back into the stew just before serving.

When serving, consider pairing this stew with a slice of crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful broth. If you find the stew is too liquid-heavy after cooking, you can leave the lid of the slow cooker off for the last 20 minutes of cooking on high to allow some of the moisture to evaporate, which will concentrate the flavors and create a slightly thicker, more syrupy sauce.

Variations

• Smoked Sausage Variation: Replace the fresh sausage with sliced smoked sausage. Since the sausage is already cooked, sear it briefly to warm it through and add color, then follow the remaining steps as written.
• Root Vegetable Addition: Incorporate diced potatoes or parsnips into the slow cooker along with the carrots. These heartier root vegetables add extra substance and pair beautifully with the cabbage and savory sausage base.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until steaming hot throughout.

Allow the stew to cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring it to an airtight container. Storing the stew properly is essential for maintaining its quality and safety.

Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent any outside odors from affecting the flavor. Once cooled, place it immediately into the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to three days. Labeling the container with the date helps ensure you use it within the recommended timeframe.

This stew is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator for a day or two. You can prepare the entire dish, let it cool, and store it as directed.

When you are ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This makes it a convenient option for meal planning, as the labor-intensive part of the cooking is already done, leaving you with a ready-to-eat meal.

Serving ideas

Serve this stew hot in deep bowls to capture all the flavorful broth. A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley is essential, as it adds a necessary pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the sausage.

If you have guests, placing a small bowl of crusty bread on the side allows everyone to enjoy the broth fully. This dish is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, requiring no additional heavy sides.

For those who enjoy extra texture, a small topping of toasted croutons or even a spoonful of sour cream can add a nice contrast to the soft, slow-cooked vegetables. Adjust the seasoning with a touch of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving to enhance the overall flavor profile.

Presenting the stew in a large, warmed serving dish at the center of the table can also make it feel like a special, family-style meal that everyone can enjoy together.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Slow Cooker Cabbage and Sausage Stew

Prep 15 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh sausage, sliced
• 1 head green cabbage, chopped
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• fresh parsley for serving

Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on all sides, ensuring the meat develops a crisp exterior.
2. Place the chopped cabbage and sliced carrots into the slow cooker. Add the browned sausage and pour the chicken broth over the mixture.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours until the vegetables are tender. Once finished, stir gently and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Contains: gluten

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

18 g

Carbohydrates

15 g

Fat

28 g

Fiber

5 g

Sugar

6 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.