Name: {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound potatoes, any variety, peeled and chopped into 1-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 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); 2 tablespoons water

If you’re short on time but craving something hearty and comforting, this {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet is about to become your weeknight hero. With tender potatoes, ribboned cabbage, and juicy kielbasa mingling together in a single pan, it’s the kind of meal that feels both rustic and satisfying—yet is shockingly fast to make. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or just need dinner on the table in a flash, this dish delivers a burst of savory, peppery flavor in every bite.

{20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet is that it leans on humble ingredients, each playing a crucial part in crafting this colorful, crave-worthy skillet dinner. A little chopping, a little sautéing, and you’re rewarded with a cozy, budget-friendly meal.

Potatoes: Any variety works, and they add hearty bulk and a bit of creamy texture—try Yukon Golds for buttery richness.
Kosher Salt: Don’t skimp! Salt enhances every element, dialing up the flavors in the skillet.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Offers subtle heat and depth—always grind fresh if you can.
Refined Coconut Oil or Light Olive Oil: These keep everything moving smoothly in the pan and add just a whisper of flavor.
Onion: Provides sweetness and a gentle bite that balances the smoky sausage.
Garlic: It’s all about that aromatic punch; mince it fresh for the biggest impact.
Kielbasa: The star of the show! Sliced thin, it crisps lightly and brings a savory, smoky kick.
Green Cabbage: Sliced into ribbons, it adds fresh crunch and soaks up every delicious flavor in the skillet.
Water: Just a touch helps steam and soften the cabbage right at the end.

How to Make {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet

Step 1: Prep and Pre-cook the Potatoes

Start by peeling and chopping your potatoes into bite-sized pieces—about half an inch is the perfect size for fast, even cooking. Give them a rinse to remove excess starch and toss with salt and pepper in a microwave-safe bowl. A quick spin in the microwave makes these little cubes fork-tender and ready for the skillet, saving you precious time (and sparing you from waiting at the stove!).

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Kielbasa

While your potatoes are cooking, heat your skillet over medium-high and splash in the oil. Once it shimmers, toss in the chopped onion and let it soften, stirring until it’s just beginning to brown. Time to bring in the garlic and kielbasa—add both at once. The garlic releases its fragrance while the sausage takes on a golden edge, infusing the pan with savory, mouthwatering aromas.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Crisp Them Up

When the microwave tells you your potatoes are ready, slide them straight into the skillet. Gently toss to coat them in all those flavorful drippings—if things seem a little dry, add another drizzle of oil. Spread everything out in an even layer and let the potatoes sizzle until they’re lightly browned, stirring to get as many crispy edges as possible.

Step 4: Wilt the Cabbage

Sprinkle the thinly sliced cabbage over the top, along with the last pinch of salt and pepper. Give it all a good toss so everything mingles, then pour in a spot of water. Pop a lid on the skillet and let the cabbage steam until it’s bright green and barely wilted—just a couple of minutes. If you prefer a softer, melt-in-your-mouth cabbage, go a minute or two longer. Taste and season again if needed, then it’s dinnertime!

How to Serve {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way to brighten up your {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbal lift, or add a squeeze of lemon for a hint of zing. If you’re feeling bold, a dusting of smoked paprika or a handful of thin-sliced green onions looks stunning and tastes even better.

Side Dishes

This skillet is a hearty meal on its own, but if you want to round things out, reach for a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the flavorful juices, or serve with a crisp green salad. Roasted carrots or apples make a sweet counterpoint to the savory sausage and cabbage, turning your meal into a true late-fall or winter feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For extra flair, serve your {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet in shallow bowls, letting the steam rise up and tempting everyone at the table. Try stacking the components in individual ramekins or mini cast iron pans for a bistro vibe. Or, set the skillet sizzling in the center of the table and let everyone dig in family-style for maximum coziness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, scoop any remaining {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet into a tightly sealed container and slide it into the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to three days, and the flavors deepen beautifully overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch something to really look forward to.

Freezing

This skillet is pretty freezer-friendly thanks to the hearty potatoes and sausage. Let everything cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. Mark with the date and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply toss the leftover {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet back into a skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon or two of water if needed to wake up the cabbage and keep things from sticking. Warm until everything is steaming hot, then serve up another round!

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage or Savoy in place of green cabbage?

Absolutely! Both red cabbage and Savoy work well in this recipe, though they’ll each lend their own color and subtle differences in texture. Red cabbage gives the skillet a jewel-toned pop, while Savoy will be a bit more delicate when cooked.

What’s the best type of potato for the {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet?

Yukon Golds or red potatoes are delicious for their creamy texture and quick cooking time, but honestly, any variety you have on hand will do—just cut them uniformly so they cook evenly.

Can I make this skillet vegetarian?

Yes! Swap out the kielbasa for your favorite vegetarian sausage or smoked tofu. Make sure to season well and add a pinch of smoked paprika for that classic smoky note you’d get from the sausage.

Is the microwave step necessary for the potatoes?

The microwave gives the potatoes a head start, making sure they’re fork-tender in just minutes. If you prefer, you can boil the potatoes on the stove, but it’ll take a little longer. The end result is still great either way!

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

As written, the {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet is more savory than spicy. If you’re a fan of a little fire, stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the onions or finish with a swirl of your favorite hot sauce.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give the {20 Minute} Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Skillet a whirl next time you need a fast, filling dinner without a fuss. This recipe is all about flavor, comfort, and getting a wholesome meal on the table, even on your busiest weeknights. Dig in and enjoy!