20 Minute Air Fryer Cabbage and Sausage Recipe
Craving something savory, smoky, and incredibly satisfying? This air fryer cabbage and sausage recipe is your answer! Imagine tender, caramelized cabbage paired with perfectly browned, juicy sausage—all cooked in one basket with minimal cleanup. Here’s a fun fact: cabbage has been a comfort food staple for centuries across cultures!
This dish is special because it transforms humble ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal in just 20 minutes. It’s ridiculously simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty on the table fast.
Much like our popular air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon, this recipe proves that the air fryer is your secret weapon for incredible vegetables. Get ready to fall in love with this crispy, flavorful combo that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
What is Air Fryer Cabbage and Sausage?
Ever wonder why we pair these two ingredients together? It’s simple: cabbage and sausage are a match made in culinary heaven! This recipe is basically the shortcut version of traditional braised cabbage and sausage, but way faster and crispier.
The air fryer works its magic by caramelizing the cabbage edges while keeping the sausage juicy. They say the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach, and this dish proves it true every single time. It’s comfort food without the fuss, and trust me, once you try this method, you’ll never go back. Ready to make your kitchen smell absolutely amazing? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cabbage and Sausage
Incredibly Quick and Easy
This recipe is a total game-changer for busy nights. With just 5 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a complete meal ready in 20 minutes flat. The air fryer does all the heavy lifting—no standing over a hot stove or dealing with greasy pans. Just chop, season, toss, and let the air fryer work its magic while you tackle other tasks.
Budget-Friendly Without Sacrificing Flavor
Cabbage is one of the most affordable vegetables you can buy, and when you make this at home, you’re saving serious money compared to ordering takeout. A whole head of cabbage costs just a few dollars and feeds a family of four easily. Plus, you control the quality of your sausage and seasonings, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor without breaking the bank.
Perfectly Seasoned with Smoky, Savory Goodness
The combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and the natural flavors from the sausage creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. The cabbage gets beautifully caramelized with crispy edges, while the sausage releases its juices, coating everything in savory deliciousness. It’s similar to our air fryer kielbasa and vegetables recipe, but this version really lets the cabbage shine as the star. The best part? You can customize the spices to match your taste preferences—add some red pepper flakes for heat or keep it mild for the kids.
Making this air fryer cabbage and sausage at home means you can enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal without the guilt or expense. Give it a try tonight!
How to Make Air Fryer Cabbage and Sausage
Quick Overview
This air fryer cabbage and sausage recipe is straightforward and foolproof. The key to success is cutting the cabbage into even-sized wedges so everything cooks uniformly. The sausage gets beautifully browned while staying juicy inside, and the cabbage develops those irresistible crispy, caramelized edges we all love. The natural sweetness of the cabbage balances perfectly with the savory, smoky sausage.
Total Time Breakdown:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Cabbage and Sausage
For the Cabbage:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage (about 2 pounds), cut into 8 wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Sausage:
- 1 pound smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if sausage is lean)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Start by removing any damaged outer leaves from your cabbage head. Cut the cabbage in half through the core, then cut each half into 4 wedges, keeping some of the core attached to each wedge so they hold together during cooking. Place the wedges in a large mixing bowl
Step 2: Season the Cabbage
Drizzle the olive oil over the cabbage wedges. Sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) evenly over the cabbage. Use your hands to gently rub the seasonings into the cabbage, making sure every wedge is well-coated. The oil helps the seasonings stick and promotes that beautiful caramelization.
Step 3: Prepare the Sausage
Slice your smoked sausage or kielbasa into ½-inch thick rounds. If you’re using a particularly lean sausage, you can toss it with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Most smoked sausages have enough fat content that they don’t need additional oil.
Step 4: Arrange in Air Fryer Basket
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes. Place the cabbage wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket, with the flat sides down when possible. Nestle the sausage slices around and between the cabbage wedges. Don’t overcrowd the basket—if necessary, cook in two batches for best results.
Step 5: Air Fry
Cook at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the ingredients halfway through at the 7-minute mark. You want the cabbage to be tender with golden-brown, crispy edges and the sausage to be nicely browned with slightly crispy edges. If you prefer softer cabbage, cook for the full 15 minutes. For extra crispy cabbage, add 2-3 more minutes.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
The cabbage should be tender when pierced with a fork but still have some texture—not mushy. The sausage should be heated through and have a beautiful brown color on the outside. If some pieces need more time, simply return them to the air fryer for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer everything to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness. For extra flavor, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese while still hot or serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, citrusy finish. Serve immediately while everything is hot and crispy!
What to Serve Air Fryer Cabbage and Sausage With
This hearty dish is satisfying on its own, but here are some excellent pairing ideas:
Starches:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttered egg noodles
- Crusty bread for soaking up juices
- Roasted baby potatoes
- Brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
Vegetables:
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted carrots with honey glaze
- Steamed green beans with garlic
- Air fryer asparagus
Condiments:
- Whole grain mustard
- Stone-ground mustard
- Horseradish sauce
- Apple cider vinegar for drizzling
Beverages:
- Cold beer (a lager or pilsner works great)
- Crisp white wine like Riesling
- Apple cider (hot or cold)
- Sparkling water with lemon
This combination makes for a complete, balanced meal that satisfies everyone at the table!
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Cabbage and Sausage
Cut Cabbage Evenly
Make sure all cabbage wedges are roughly the same size so they cook at the same rate. Keep part of the core attached to each wedge to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food. If you pack too much in, you’ll end up steaming instead of getting that crispy texture. Cook in batches if needed—it’s worth the extra few minutes.
Shake or Flip Halfway Through
This ensures even browning on all sides. Use tongs to gently flip the cabbage wedges and redistribute the sausage pieces at the 7-minute mark.
Adjust Seasonings to Taste
If you love garlic, add some fresh minced garlic in the last 3 minutes of cooking. For more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper. If feeding kids, keep it mild and let adults add hot sauce at the table.
Choose the Right Sausage
Smoked sausage, kielbasa, andouille, or Italian sausage all work beautifully. For a healthier option, use chicken or turkey sausage. Just note that leaner sausages may need a light coating of oil to prevent drying out.
Try Different Cabbage Varieties
While green cabbage is traditional, purple cabbage adds a beautiful color and slightly peppery taste. Savoy cabbage has a more delicate texture and cooks a bit faster, so reduce cooking time by 2-3 minutes.
Add Extra Vegetables
Feel free to throw in sliced bell peppers, onion wedges, or carrot chunks. Just remember that different vegetables have different cooking times, so you may need to add them at different stages.
Prevent Burnt Edges
If the edges of your cabbage are browning too quickly but the interior is still firm, reduce the temperature to 375°F and cook a bit longer. You can also lightly cover with foil for the last few minutes.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftover air fryer cabbage and sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let the dish cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. Separate layers with parchment paper if stacking.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date. Note that the cabbage texture may become slightly softer after freezing and reheating, but the flavor remains excellent.
Reheating in Air Fryer (Best Method): Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place the leftovers in the basket and heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through. This method restores the crispy texture beautifully.
Reheating in Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. The cabbage won’t be as crispy, but it’ll still taste delicious.
Reheating in Oven: Spread on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until heated through. This method works well for larger portions.
Reheating from Frozen: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using any of the methods above. You can also reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, checking and shaking occasionally.
Tips for Avoiding Common Mistakes with This Recipe
Mistake: Soggy Instead of Crispy Cabbage
Solution: Pat the cabbage dry after cutting if it seems wet. Don’t use too much oil—2 tablespoons is plenty. Make sure your air fryer is fully preheated, and don’t overcrowd the basket. Space is essential for crispy results.
Mistake: Unevenly Cooked Cabbage
Solution: Cut all wedges to a similar thickness. Arrange them flat-side down in the basket when possible. Always flip or shake halfway through cooking for even browning.
Mistake: Dry, Overcooked Sausage
Solution: Check at the 12-minute mark. Pre-cooked sausages only need to be heated through and browned, not fully cooked from raw. If using raw sausage, ensure it reaches 160°F internal temperature.
Mistake: Bland Flavor
Solution: Don’t skimp on seasonings! The cabbage needs bold flavors to shine. Taste your seasoning mix before adding to ensure it’s flavorful enough. Remember, you can always add more but can’t take it away.
Mistake: Burnt Edges
Solution: Every air fryer runs slightly differently. Start checking at 10 minutes if it’s your first time making this recipe. If your air fryer runs hot, reduce temperature to 375°F.
Mistake: Cabbage Falls Apart
Solution: Keep part of the core attached to each wedge. This acts as a “handle” that holds the leaves together. Use a gentle touch when flipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw sausage instead of pre-cooked smoked sausage?
Yes! If using raw sausage, increase cooking time to 18-20 minutes and ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for pork or 165°F for poultry. You may need to remove the cabbage earlier to prevent overcooking while the sausage finishes.
What’s the best type of sausage for this recipe?
Smoked sausage, kielbasa, andouille, and Italian sausage all work wonderfully. Choose based on your flavor preference—andouille for spicy Cajun flavors, Italian for herby notes, or classic kielbasa for traditional taste.
Do I need to boil the cabbage first?
Not at all! That’s the beauty of this recipe. The air fryer cooks the cabbage perfectly from raw, giving it a tender interior with crispy, caramelized edges you won’t get from boiling.
Can I make this recipe in a regular oven?
Absolutely! Spread everything on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The air fryer is faster, but the oven works great too.
How do I know when the cabbage is done?
The cabbage should be tender when pierced with a fork, with golden-brown, slightly crispy edges. It should have some texture but not be crunchy or raw-tasting.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Bell peppers, onions, carrots, and Brussels sprouts all pair well. Add harder vegetables like carrots at the start, and softer ones like bell peppers about 5 minutes into cooking.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! This recipe is naturally low in carbs. One serving contains approximately 8-10g of net carbs, making it perfect for keto and low-carb diets.
Why is my cabbage not getting crispy?
This usually happens from overcrowding the basket or using too much oil. Make sure there’s space between pieces for air circulation. Also, ensure your cabbage is dry before seasoning.
Can I use purple cabbage instead of green?
Definitely! Purple cabbage works beautifully and adds gorgeous color. It may take 1-2 minutes longer to cook and has a slightly different, more peppery flavor.
How do I prevent the seasoning from burning?
Mix seasonings with oil before applying, which helps them adhere without burning. Avoid sprinkling dry spices directly on hot surfaces. If edges are browning too fast, reduce temperature slightly.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Sodium | 780mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 14g |
| Vitamin C | 45% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 8% DV |
Nutrition information is approximate and based on 4 servings using smoked pork sausage and green cabbage.
Final Thoughts
This air fryer cabbage and sausage recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. It’s become a regular rotation in our household because it checks all the boxes: quick, affordable, healthy, and absolutely delicious.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Make it exactly as written for a classic, comforting meal, or customize it with your favorite seasonings and sausage varieties. Add extra vegetables, change up the spices, or experiment with different types of cabbage—this recipe is forgiving and adaptable.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a budget-friendly dinner that doesn’t taste cheap, this air fryer cabbage and sausage has you covered. The combination of caramelized cabbage and juicy sausage is undeniably satisfying, and the minimal cleanup is just the cherry on top.
So grab that head of cabbage sitting in your fridge and give this recipe a try tonight. Your family will thank you, your wallet will thank you, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t discover this game-changing recipe sooner!
Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on social media—we love seeing your delicious results! Happy cooking!
