As the temperature drops and leaves crunch underfoot, there’s nothing quite like the inviting aroma of a hearty stew bubbling away in the kitchen. This Cajun Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes dish is the perfect antidote for those chilly evenings when you crave comfort food that feels like a warm hug. I stumbled upon this gem during a simple grocery run and realized I had most of the ingredients already tucked away in my pantry.
With its combination of tender cabbage, smoky sausage, and creamy mini potatoes, this recipe marries vibrant Cajun spices with minimal prep work, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? You can set it and forget it—just add your ingredients to the crock pot, let it simmer, and come home to a soul-warming feast. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish promises to impress while allowing you to savor the moments that matter most. Let’s dig into the details!
Why is Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: This recipe is a total time-saver—just chop, toss, and go!
Hearty Comfort: With rich sausage and tender cabbage, it’s cozy in every bite—perfect for chilly nights.
Flavorful Cajun Twist: The bold spices bring a taste of the South right into your home!
Versatility: Switch up the sausage or use pre-cut veggies for even quicker preparation. For more delicious ideas, check out our Cajun recipe collection.
Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will ask for seconds!
Leftover Love: Storing is easy, and it reheats wonderfully, making lunches a breeze!
Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes Ingredients
For the Cabbage Base
- Cabbage – A 2-lb medium-sized cabbage works best as it absorbs all the Cajun flavors beautifully.
For the Protein
- Smoked Sausage – Smoky and rich, regular Hillshire Farms sausage is perfect; substitute kielbasa for a twist.
For the Potatoes
- Mini Potatoes – Using baby red or gold potatoes adds creaminess; if larger, cut them into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
For Flavoring
- Cajun Seasoning – This is the magic ingredient that gives the dish its bold, zesty kick; Tony Chachere’s is highly recommended.
For Cooking Fats
- Butter & Olive Oil – A half-and-half mix enhances flavor and moisture; you can also use bacon grease for a richer taste.
This Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes dish is sure to warm your heart and home, making it a delightful addition to your comfort food repertoire!
How to Make Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes
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Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping your 2-lb cabbage into bite-sized pieces, slicing the smoked sausage, and washing the mini potatoes to ensure they’re clean and ready to cook.
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Layer the Cabbage: In your crock pot, place the chopped cabbage at the bottom. This will create a tender base that soaks up all those delicious flavors.
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Add the Sausage and Potatoes: Next, pile the sliced sausage on top of the cabbage, followed by a generous layer of mini potatoes. This layering creates a delightful mix during cooking.
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Sprinkle the Cajun Seasoning: Evenly sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the top of the layers. This will infuse your dish with that signature zesty flavor!
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Avoid Adding Liquid: Resist the temptation to add any liquid! The cabbage will render enough moisture as it cooks, keeping everything perfectly tender.
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Cook on Low: Set your crock pot to low and let it simmer for 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when everything is fork-tender and the aroma fills your kitchen with warmth.
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Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, serve the dish warm and enjoy the comforting flavors that make this meal a cozy retreat from the cold.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists on a classic recipe and make it your own!
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Sauerkraut Swap: Replace the cabbage with sauerkraut for a tangy, fermented flavor. It’s a delightful combination that adds a bit of brightness!
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Smoked Sausage Variants: Experiment with different smoked sausages like andouille or turkey sausage for a unique taste. Each will bring its own character to this comforting dish.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to ramp up the heat. It’s perfect for those who like a bit of fire in their meals!
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley before cooking. They will elevate the dish with fragrant aromas and extra flavor layers.
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Vegetable Medley: Incorporate carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added color and nutrition. The extra veggies will meld beautifully with the Cajun seasoning.
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Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top just before serving for a delightful addition. A melty layer of cheese can take the dish to the next level!
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Coconut Milk Creaminess: Substitute a splash of coconut milk for some of the cooking fats for a creamy, tropical twist on flavors that’s utterly delicious.
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Quinoa Base: For a gluten-free option, use cooked quinoa instead of potatoes for added protein and texture. This transforms the dish while keeping it hearty and satisfying!
What to Serve with Cajun Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes?
Savor the warmth of a cozy meal that invites delicious pairings to elevate your dining experience.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for mopping up every bit of flavor, a warm, crusty loaf of bread will complement your hearty dish beautifully.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad brings contrast with fresh greens and tangy vinaigrette, balancing the rich flavors of the main dish.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool creaminess of coleslaw can provide a delightful crunch alongside the tender cabbage and sausage, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful twist that contrasts with the savory notes of the dish, making each bite a treat.
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic butter add textural variety and a vibrant splash of color to your plate.
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Sweet Potato Mash: The natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes offers a comforting, creamy counterpart that complements the spice of the Cajun dish.
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Spicy Pickles: For those who like a kick, a side of spicy pickles can add a zesty crunch that enhances the meal’s flavors.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages like sweet iced tea or lemonade perfectly balance the warmth of the dish, keeping your palate lively.
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Chocolate Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with rich chocolate cake, providing a delightful contrast to the hearty, savory main course.
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the cabbage and slice the sausage up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the chopped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can wash and prepare the mini potatoes ahead of time; just remember to refrigerate them too. When you’re ready to cook, layer the prepped cabbage, sausage, and potatoes in the crock pot, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, and set it on low for 4 hours. This approach not only saves you time during busy weeknights but also ensures that your meal is just as delicious when it’s time to enjoy it!
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave space for expansion as it freezes.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. A splash of broth or water can help revive the moisture.
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Serving Suggestions: This hearty meal pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad, perfect for cozy dinners.
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes
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Layering Matters: Ensure cabbage sits at the bottom of the crock pot for optimal tenderness and flavor absorption.
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Flavor Integration: Mix sausage pieces well with the cabbage to infuse maximum smoky flavor throughout the dish.
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No Extra Liquid: Stick to the recipe and don’t add water or broth; the cabbage will release plenty of moisture while cooking.
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Shortcut Option: If using a bagged coleslaw mix for speed, add it halfway through cooking to maintain the right texture.
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Herb Boost: Consider adding fresh thyme or bay leaves before cooking for an additional layer of flavor in your Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes.
Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose a medium-sized 2-lb cabbage that feels heavy for its size. Look for a head with firm, crisp leaves that are vibrant green without any dark spots or wilting. If you’re using a larger cabbage, make sure you increase the amount of sausage and potatoes proportionally for balance.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish actually gets tastier as the flavors meld together. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing it up to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze Cajun Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes?
Yes, you can! To freeze, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
What should I do if the dish turns out too soupy?
Good question! If you find your dish has too much liquid, it might be because you added extra moist ingredients or didn’t let it cook long enough. To troubleshoot, you can try simmering it uncovered on the stove for a bit to reduce the liquid. If it’s too soupy, you can also thicken it by stirring in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
For sure! This recipe contains sausage, which may not be suitable for vegetarians or those with certain dietary restrictions. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or increase the amount of potatoes for substance. Always double-check seasoning for allergens, and remember, the smokiness can be replicated using smoked paprika if desired.
Can I use other vegetables besides cabbage?
Of course! While this recipe highlights cabbage, you can switch it up with sauerkraut for a tangy twist, or even use a mix of bell peppers and onions for a more colorful variation. If you opt for pre-cut frozen veggies, just layer them halfway through cooking to maintain their texture.
Crock Pot Cabbage, Sausage & Potatoes for Cozy Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping your 2-lb cabbage into bite-sized pieces, slicing the smoked sausage, and washing the mini potatoes to ensure they're clean and ready to cook.
- Layer the Cabbage: In your crock pot, place the chopped cabbage at the bottom. This will create a tender base that soaks up all those delicious flavors.
- Add the Sausage and Potatoes: Next, pile the sliced sausage on top of the cabbage, followed by a generous layer of mini potatoes.
- Sprinkle the Cajun Seasoning: Evenly sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the top of the layers.
- Avoid Adding Liquid: Resist the temptation to add any liquid! The cabbage will render enough moisture as it cooks.
- Cook on Low: Set your crock pot to low and let it simmer for 4 hours until fork-tender.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, serve the dish warm and enjoy the comforting flavors.