Name: Easy Beef Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 200 g (7 oz) smoked beef sausage, sliced into rounds; 1 medium cabbage (400 g), thinly sliced; 1 medium onion (150 g), sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil; 1 medium bell pepper (150 g), optional, sliced; 1 medium carrot (100 g), optional, julienned; 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tsp honey or a low-carb sweetener, optional; Pinch of chili flakes, optional for spice

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 3 reviews

I absolutely love sharing my take on this Easy Beef Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe because it’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s packed with savory, smoky flavors from the beef sausage, combined with the fresh crunch of cabbage and just the right touch of sweetness and spice. What really makes this dish shine for me is how quick and straightforward it is to prepare, yet it delivers on both taste and texture. Whether I’m rushing through a weeknight dinner or feeding friends who appreciate something hearty yet light, this recipe always hits the spot perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

From the very first time I tossed this stir fry together, I knew it was something special. The flavor profile is an exciting mix of smoky, sweet, and just a little spicy, which I find irresistible. The beef sausage brings a rich, meaty depth, while the cabbage adds a satisfying crunch and freshness that balances everything so well. I also adore how the soy sauce and sesame oil come together to coat every bite with a silky, flavorful sheen that keeps me coming back for more. It’s simple yet full of character, and I can’t recommend it enough if you like a meal that feels both comforting and vibrant.

One of the best things about this Easy Beef Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is how incredibly easy it is to make. I’m talking about a dish that I can have on the table in just about 30 minutes, even on a busy weekday. The minimal prep and quick cooking time mean I don’t need to sacrifice flavor for speed. Plus, it’s super flexible, so it adapts well to what I have in my fridge or pantry at the time. This stir fry really stands out because it combines convenience and nutrition without any fuss, making it perfect for everything from casual family dinners to last-minute gatherings with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The dish shows a black pan filled with cooked cabbage and round sausage pieces. The cabbage is light green with some soft white parts, soft and slightly wilted, spread evenly across the pan. The sausages are sliced into small round pieces, brownish-red and slightly crispy, scattered mostly on top of the cabbage layer. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface with a white cloth slightly visible under one side. A few green leaves are seen at the top left corner, and part of toasted bread is visible on the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe leans on simple, fresh ingredients that each add a unique layer of taste, texture, or color to the dish. Nothing fancy, just basics that come together effortlessly to create a satisfying meal.

Smoked sausage (200 g): Choose a quality beef sausage with a smoky flavor to add depth and heartiness.
Cabbage (400 g): Thinly sliced to maintain a nice crunch and absorb the stir fry sauce beautifully.
Onion (150 g): Sliced for sweetness and aromatic freshness.
Garlic (2 cloves): Minced to infuse a punch of flavor right from the start.
Olive oil or avocado oil (2 tbsp): For a healthy cooking base that lightly crisps the sausage and veggies.
Bell pepper (150 g, optional): Adds vibrant color and a subtle sweetness if you feel like mixing things up.
Carrot (100 g, optional): Julienned for an earthy crunch and a pop of orange brightness.
Soy sauce or tamari (2 tbsp): Essential for that savory umami kick; tamari is perfect for gluten-free options.
Sesame oil (1 tsp): A small but mighty addition that gives a wonderful nutty aroma.
Honey or low-carb sweetener (1 tsp, optional): For a slight touch of sweetness that balances the salty and smoky notes.
Chili flakes (pinch, optional): Just enough to add a little heat without overpowering the dish.

Directions

Step 1: Start by slicing your smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds or strips. This size works perfectly for quick, even cooking and easy eating.

Step 2: Thinly slice your cabbage and onion, and if you’re using bell peppers and carrots, slice those into similar-sized pieces to keep the cooking time uniform.

Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or sweetener), and chili flakes if you’re using them. This is your flavorful stir fry sauce, so give it a taste to balance sweet, salty, and spicy to your liking.

Step 4: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the olive or avocado oil, then add the sausage slices. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden and have a little crisp on the edges. Remove the sausage and set aside, but keep the flavorful oil in the pan.

Step 5: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly translucent. This builds the flavor foundation for the stir fry.

Step 6: Toss in the cabbage along with any optional bell pepper and carrot. Stir frequently and cook for 3-5 minutes until the cabbage softens but still keeps a little crunch, which I believe makes this dish extra satisfying.

Step 7: Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Pour your prepared sauce evenly over the contents and stir well to coat everything. Let this cook together for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors marry beautifully.

Step 8: Remove from heat and serve immediately. I love to sprinkle sesame seeds or fresh herbs on top for a little extra flair and texture.

Servings and Timing

This Easy Beef Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe makes about 4 generous servings, making it fantastic for feeding a small family or prepping some yummy leftovers. Prep time is around 10 minutes since most of the chopping is straightforward, and the cooking time takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. So, in total, you’re looking at 30 minutes to a delicious and comforting meal on your table. No resting or cooling time needed — this is best enjoyed hot and fresh!

How to Serve This Easy Beef Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a white plate filled with cooked sausage slices and cabbage. The sausage slices are round with a browned and slightly crispy outside, placed on top and around the pale, tender cabbage pieces which have some golden-brown edges from cooking. Small bits of fresh green parsley are sprinkled over the top, adding a touch of color. The dish looks warm and hearty, with the sausage pieces having a rich reddish-brown color and the cabbage layers soft and light. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I’m serving this stir fry, I like to keep things simple but impactful. It’s perfect on its own as a complete meal, thanks to the protein and veggies all in one pan. However, if I want to jazz it up, I’ll pair it with fluffy steamed rice or even some buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce. This pairing balances the smokiness of the sausage with a soft, comforting base.

For garnishes, I’m a big fan of toasted sesame seeds sprinkled right on top or fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for a burst of color and freshness. Presentation-wise, serving it in a wide, shallow bowl helps showcase the textures and colors beautifully, making the meal feel a bit more special without requiring fuss. I serve it hot, right from the stove, to enjoy the crunchy cabbage and warm sausage at their very best.

In terms of drink pairings, this dish plays wonderfully with a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling, which can cut through the richness of the sausage nicely. If you prefer cocktails, a light ginger-lime mocktail or even a sparkling water with lemon can refresh the palate. This stir fry is great for casual weeknights but also shines for holiday dinners or inviting friends over since it’s flavorful, quick, and crowd-pleasing.

Variations

I love customizing this Easy Beef Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe depending on what’s on hand or my mood. For example, swapping out the smoked sausage for chicken sausage or spicy chorizo adds a fun twist on the flavor profile. If you want a plant-based version, try using vegan sausage or even hearty mushrooms like portobello for a delicious umami boost while keeping it vegetarian.

For those who need to keep things gluten-free, tamari works perfectly instead of soy sauce, and I always double-check the sausage ingredients. You can also play around with adding different vegetables — snap peas, broccoli florets, or zucchini ribbons make great substitutes or additions to boost the veggie content and color even more.

When it comes to flavor, I sometimes add a splash of rice vinegar or a teaspoon of grated ginger to the sauce for an extra zing. Cooking methods can also vary: instead of a stir fry, you could bake the cabbage and sausage with the sauce in a sheet pan for a different texture and less hands-on time, but I really love the sear and crisp you get in a skillet for this dish.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container to keep flavors fresh and prevent the cabbage from becoming soggy. This stir fry keeps really well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I store it, I like glass containers because they don’t absorb odors and make reheating easy. The cabbage may soften a bit over time, but the dish still tastes great.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this recipe, it’s definitely possible! I portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags, pressing out as much air as possible. It will keep well frozen for about 1 to 2 months. When I thaw it, I usually move it to the fridge overnight to thaw slowly before reheating. Note that freezing might affect the texture of the cabbage slightly, making it softer, but the flavors remain intact.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer tossing the leftovers back in a hot skillet on medium heat. This method revives the slight crispness of the sausage edges and brings back some texture to the cabbage. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the cabbage limp and less appetizing. If you do use a microwave, heat in short bursts and stir in between to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage for this Easy Beef Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe?

Absolutely! Pork, chicken, turkey, or even chorizo sausage works wonderfully here. Just choose a sausage you love and adjust cooking time slightly based on thickness and fat content. Keep in mind, smoked or flavored sausages add more depth.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be with a simple swap to tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Also, check your sausage label to ensure no gluten-containing fillers or seasonings. This makes the recipe friendly for gluten-sensitive diets without compromising flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, by replacing the beef sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative or mushrooms, you can make a vegan version. For the sauce, just use tamari and skip the honey or substitute with maple syrup or agave.

What vegetables go well if I want to add more to the stir fry?

Great additions include bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, thinly sliced zucchini, or broccoli florets. Just make sure to slice them thinly or in similar sizes so everything cooks evenly and quickly.

How spicy is this dish, and can I adjust the heat?

The dish is mildly spicy if you use just a pinch of chili flakes, but it’s easy to adjust. Add more chili flakes for heat, or omit them entirely if you prefer a mild meal. You can also add fresh chilies or a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.

Conclusion

I genuinely hope you give this Easy Beef Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe a try because it’s become one of my all-time favorite go-to meals. It’s quick, flavorful, and flexible — perfect whether you’re cooking just for yourself or for a whole family. The blend of smoky sausage with crunchy cabbage is truly a simple combination that never gets old. I can’t wait for you to taste it and make it your own in your kitchen!