Italian Cabbage

Cook: 60 min Cuisine: Italian

A hearty Italian-inspired cabbage and sausage dish with rich tomato flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to prepare in one skillet.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large head green cabbage, chopped
  • 2 large onions, chopped
  • 1 (28 oz.) can tomatoes
  • 1 (14 oz.) can tomato sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1 pkg. McCormick chili seasoning (hot)
  • 1 lb. sausage, crumbled, browned and drained

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients in a large covered skillet or saucepan.
  2. Stir occasionally until it comes to a boil.
  3. Lower heat to simmer and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of Italian Cabbage, consider adding garlic or red pepper flakes for extra spice. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones; just peel and chop about 6-8 medium-sized tomatoes. This dish is versatile and can be served as a side or main course, making it a great choice for gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Cabbage pairs beautifully with Viva Italian Pasta Salad for a hearty meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a side salad to balance the flavors. For a complete dinner experience, it goes well with Stuffed Shells With Three Fillings or a light Italian Sausage Salad. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal. If the mixture seems dry after reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Italian Cabbage contains roughly 230 calories, with 8g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1626mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).

230 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.9g 16% DV
Total Fat 7.8g 10% DV
Carbs 34.1g 12% DV
Fiber 6.6g 24% DV
Sugar 8.7g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1625.9mg 71% DV
Potassium 530.7mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 10.1mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 64mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 32.8mg 36% DV
Calcium 30.8mg 2% DV
Iron 3mg 17% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Italian Cabbage a day in advance. Just follow the recipe and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through. This allows the flavors to meld even more, enhancing the overall taste.

What can I substitute for the sausage?

If you're looking for a sausage substitute, consider using crumbled tempeh or mushrooms for a hearty texture. You can also try plant-based sausages available in stores. For a different flavor profile, turkey or chicken sausage can be used as a lighter alternative while still providing a satisfying taste.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, Italian Cabbage freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of broth if needed to restore its original consistency.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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