There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of cabbage stew, especially when the weather starts to cool down here in the Midwest.
This Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Cabbage Stew is one of those recipes that feels like a hug in a bowl.
It’s incredibly simple to make, which is perfect for those busy workdays when you just want to come home to a ready-made meal.
The origins of this dish are rooted in the hearty, no-fuss cooking of our grandmothers, who knew how to make the most out of simple ingredients.
You’ll love how this stew fills your home with a cozy aroma and your belly with warmth.
This cabbage stew is quite versatile and pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a warm biscuit to soak up all the delicious broth.
You might also enjoy it with a side of mashed potatoes or a simple green salad to add a fresh contrast to the stew’s richness.
If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of sour cream on top can add a creamy touch.
Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Cabbage Stew
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 small head of cabbage, cut into wedges
1 pound of smoked sausage, sliced
1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
4 cups of chicken broth
Directions
Place the cabbage wedges in the bottom of your slow cooker.
Layer the sliced smoked sausage on top of the cabbage.
Pour the can of diced tomatoes over the sausage and cabbage.
Add the chicken broth, ensuring that the ingredients are mostly covered.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the cabbage is tender.
Stir gently before serving to combine the flavors.
How to Store:
Refrigerate:
Let the stew cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze:
This stew freezes well! Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.
For best texture, avoid freezing if you’ve added cream or sour cream.
Reheat:
Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls in 1–2 minute intervals, stirring in between.
From Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as above.
Variations:
Add Root Veggies: Include peeled, chopped carrots, potatoes, or parsnips for extra heartiness.
Spicy Kick: Use spicy andouille sausage or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Tomato Twist: Try fire-roasted diced tomatoes or tomatoes with green chiles for added depth and zip.
Veggie Boost: Stir in a handful of kale or spinach during the last 30 minutes for extra greens.
Low-Carb Option: Swap chicken broth for bone broth and add extra sausage for a protein-rich version.
Tips:
Cabbage Placement: Keep cabbage wedges on the bottom so they cook evenly and soak up all the flavor.
Slice Sausage Thick: Thicker slices of sausage hold up better during long slow cooking.
Don’t Overfill: Your slow cooker should be no more than 3/4 full for best results.
Make Ahead: Assemble everything in the insert the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it into the cooker and start.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: ~290
Total Fat: ~20g
Saturated Fat: ~7g
Cholesterol: ~50mg
Sodium: ~850mg
Carbohydrates: ~12g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugars: ~5g
Protein: ~15g
Notes:
Nutritional values can vary depending on the type and brand of smoked sausage and chicken broth used.
To lighten it up, use turkey sausage and low-sodium broth.
For a heartier dish, adding potatoes will increase both carbs and fiber.