{20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet

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In the hustle and bustle of busy weeknights, it can be challenging to whip up a satisfying meal that’s both quick and flavorful. But fear not! This {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet recipe is here to save the day. Packed with tender potatoes, savory kielbasa, and crisp cabbage, this one-pan wonder is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients:

Before we delve into the cooking process, let’s gather our 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:

Now, let’s get cooking:

  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. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives over the skillet just before serving for a pop of color and added freshness.
  2. Pair with Crusty Bread: Serve this skillet meal with slices of warm crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious juices.
  3. Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top of each serving adds a creamy tanginess that complements the savory flavors of the dish.
  4. Serve with a Side Salad: Pair this skillet with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette for a well-rounded meal.
  5. Drizzle with Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offer some hot sauce on the side for drizzling over individual servings.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
  2. Freezing: This skillet meal can also be frozen for longer storage. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
  3. Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw frozen leftovers overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed to your liking.
  4. Revitalize with Broth: If the dish seems a bit dry after reheating, add a splash of broth or water to help revive the flavors and moisture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can make the most of your Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet, whether you’re serving it fresh or enjoying it as leftovers later on.

 

Variations:

  1. Spicy Kick: For a spicy twist, add diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the onions and garlic. Serve with a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
  2. Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. Allow the cheese to melt and become gooey before serving.
  3. Vegetarian Option: Swap the kielbasa for vegetarian sausage or sliced tofu for a meat-free version. You can also add additional veggies such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
  4. Italian Flair: Replace the kielbasa with sliced Italian sausage and add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the skillet for a Mediterranean twist. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
  5. Tex-Mex Twist: Substitute the kielbasa with sliced smoked sausage and add a teaspoon of chili powder and a dash of cumin to the skillet. Serve with a side of salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for a Tex-Mex flair.
  6. Asian Fusion: Use soy sauce and sesame oil instead of salt and pepper for seasoning. Add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, and water chestnuts to the skillet along with the cabbage for an Asian-inspired dish. Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a drizzle of sriracha for added flavor.
  7. Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or dill to add a unique flavor profile to the skillet. Simply sprinkle the herbs over the dish during cooking or toss them with the potatoes before microwaving for an extra burst of freshness.

By trying out these variations, you can customize the Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet to suit your taste preferences and create exciting new flavors with each batch. Enjoy getting creative in the kitchen!

FAQs:

1. Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe? Yes, you can use any variety of potatoes you prefer or have on hand. Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes all work well in this skillet recipe.

2. Is it necessary to peel the potatoes before chopping them? While peeling the potatoes is recommended for a smoother texture, you can leave the skins on if you prefer a more rustic dish. Just make sure to scrub the potatoes thoroughly before chopping.

3. Can I substitute the kielbasa with another type of sausage? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of sausage such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.

4. How can I make this recipe vegetarian? To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the kielbasa or replace it with vegetarian sausage or tofu. You can also bulk up the dish with additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.

5. Can I make this skillet ahead of time? While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply cook everything together in the skillet.

6. How do I know when the potatoes are fork-tender? Pierce the potatoes with a fork after microwaving to check for tenderness. They should be soft enough to pierce easily but not mushy.

7. Can I adjust the seasoning to suit my taste preferences? Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, or any other seasonings to your liking. Taste as you go and add more seasoning as needed.

8. Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? Yes, you can freeze leftovers for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

9. How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check the ingredients of the kielbasa to ensure it doesn’t contain any gluten additives, and you’re good to go!

In just 20 minutes, you’ve created a delicious and wholesome meal that’s sure to please the whole family. This Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. So, the next time you’re short on time but craving something hearty and satisfying, give this recipe a try. Happy cooking!