There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of cabbage, perfectly complemented by the savory goodness of sausage, enveloped in a buttery embrace. This Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta is one of those delightful discoveries I stumbled upon during a casual weeknight kitchen experiment. With simple ingredients and rich flavors, it transforms the often-overlooked cabbage into a star on your dinner table.
Picture this: the enticing scent of garlic and onions sizzling together, the warmth of spices mingling in the air, and the comforting hug of melted cheese sprinkled on top. This dish is not only easy to whip up but also a testament to how satisfying home-cooked meals can be, especially when you’re looking for a hearty alternative to fast food. Perfect for busy families or anyone craving a deliciously cozy meal, you’ll find that this pasta dish is not just a weeknight winner—it’s destined to become a favorite that brings everyone together around the table. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why is Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta a must-try?
Comforting: This dish combines familiar ingredients to create the ultimate comfort food that warms the soul.
Flavorful: The harmonious blend of savory sausage, sweet cabbage, and buttery goodness creates a mouthwatering experience.
Quick to Make: Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s simple to prepare and can be on your table in no time.
Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or as a side, and feel free to adapt with your favorite pasta.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors, this meal is sure to impress family and guests alike! Want to explore more comforting recipes? Check out my home-cooked favorites.
Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta Dish
• Olive oil – A tablespoon adds richness to the sausage as it cooks.
• Mild Italian sausage – This adds a savory depth; feel free to substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Unsalted butter – Using 6 tablespoons ensures a lovely buttery flavor throughout the dish.
• Yellow onion – About 2 1/4 cups thinly sliced bring sweetness and depth to the sauté.
• Garlic cloves – 4 cloves, minced, for that aromatic richness that enhances every bite.
• Fennel seeds – A teaspoon gives a hint of anise flavor that beautifully complements the dish.
• Crushed red pepper – A quarter teaspoon adds just the right amount of heat; adjust to taste.
• Green cabbage – One small head, shredded, adds texture and nutritional value to your buttery cabbage-and-sausage pasta.
• Kosher salt – 2 teaspoons elevate and balance the dish’s flavors.
• Water – As needed, to help wilt the cabbage and create a lovely sauce for your pasta.
• Gemelli pasta – 16 ounces of this charming short pasta work wonderfully, but feel free to substitute with any short pasta.
• Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese – 3 ounces, grated, brings a final touch of creaminess; save some for garnish!
• Fresh lemon juice – From 2 lemons, 3 tablespoons brighten up the dish with a citrusy zing.
• Chopped fresh dill – A sprinkle for garnish that lends a fresh, herbaceous note to finish your meal beautifully.
How to Make Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta
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Heat the Oil: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer, then break in the sausage, cooking until browned and deliciously fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
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Melt the Butter: Once the sausage is cooked, add the unsalted butter. Let it melt completely, creating a rich base for the rest of the ingredients.
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Sauté the Onions: Add the thinly sliced yellow onion to the skillet. Sauté until they become translucent and tender, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, fennel seeds, and crushed red pepper. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and fill your kitchen with glorious aromas.
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Mix in Cabbage: Toss in the shredded cabbage and sprinkle the kosher salt over the top. Cook until the cabbage wilts down, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until beautifully tender.
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Cook the Pasta: While the cabbage is wilting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gemelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sausage and cabbage mixture.
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Add Finishing Touches: Pour in the reserved pasta water, followed by the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, allowing the cheese to melt and create a creamy texture.
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Garnish and Serve: Serve the dish in bowls, garnished with additional cheese, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper, and chopped fresh dill for that final touch of freshness.
Optional: Squeeze an extra dash of lemon juice just before serving for an added zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta
Fridge: Store leftover Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve texture.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. To prevent clumping, seal the pasta tightly to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating: Thaw frozen pasta in the fridge overnight. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water or extra butter to keep it moist.
Serving Tip: For best flavor, garnish with fresh dill and a sprinkle of cheese just before serving.
Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta Variations
Feel free to adjust this dish to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. The possibilities are deliciously endless!
- Spicy Kick: Add extra crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños for a fiery twist that ignites your palate.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of hearty vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly version that’s equally satisfying.
- Whole Wheat: Swap the gemelli pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives to make this dish more health-conscious while retaining flavor.
- Creamy Option: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for an ultra-creamy sauce that brings a dreamy richness.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for a unique twist that enhances the flavors of the dish.
- Cheesy Variation: Try mixing in a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or feta for a delightful melty goodness that will leave you wanting more.
- Savory Bacon: For an unforgettable flavor, brown some bacon before adding the sausage—its smoky essence will elevate every bite.
- Citrus Zest: Add some lemon or orange zest along with the juice to intensify the citrus notes and brighten the overall dish.
What to Serve with Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta?
Bring your dinner table to life with vibrant accompaniments that elevate this hearty pasta dish to new heights.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side that perfectly complements the softness of the pasta while soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens with a zesty vinaigrette provide a crisp contrast to the richness of the pasta, balancing out the meal. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor!
- Roasted Broccoli: This vegetable brings a nutty flavor through roasting, adding a delightful texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta. It’s an easy way to incorporate more greens into your dinner.
- Lemonade Spritzers: A refreshing drink made with lemonade and sparkling water that cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing the bright notes of lemon in the pasta.
- Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with melted cheese offers a comforting, buttery side that echoes the richness of the main dish while adding a different texture.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, spiced treat brings in a delightful sweetness that rounds off your meal nicely after savory flavors, leaving you fully satisfied.
Explore these pairings to create a meal that wraps you in warmth!
Make Ahead Options
These Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the sausage and vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can cook the gemelli pasta, drain it, and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sausage and cabbage mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding the cooked pasta along with the reserved pasta water, cheese, and lemon juice. This way, you’ll ensure every bite remains deliciously fresh and fragrant without sacrificing quality—perfect for busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta
Use Quality Sausage: Choosing high-quality mild Italian sausage ensures a rich, authentic flavor that elevates your dish.
Don’t Rush the Cabbage: Give the cabbage ample time to wilt and develop its flavor. Stir occasionally, allowing it to soften beautifully without burning.
Save Pasta Water: Always reserve pasta water, as it helps to create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to your buttery cabbage-and-sausage pasta.
Personalized Heat: Adjust the crushed red pepper according to your heat preference. You can always add more, but it’s hard to tone down a spicy dish.
Zest with Citrus: A quick squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving can brighten the flavors even more, enhancing the overall experience.
Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage should I use for Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta?
Absolutely! A small green cabbage is best for this recipe. Look for one that feels heavy for its size and has firm, crisp leaves without dark spots. This ensures maximum freshness and crunch for our delicious pasta dish.
How long can I store leftover pasta in the fridge?
Very! You can store leftover Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat to help preserve that delightful texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the pasta into airtight containers and seal tightly. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water or a little extra butter to ensure it stays moist.
What should I do if my pasta turns out too dry?
If you find your pasta is dry after cooking, don’t worry! Simply add a bit of the reserved pasta water while reheating. Start with a tablespoon, and stir well to rehydrate the dish. You can also mix in a drizzle of olive oil or a touch of cream for extra richness.
Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter dish or even spicy Italian sausage if you prefer more heat. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly as leaner meats may cook faster. Whatever you choose, it will definitely add delicious flavor to the pasta!
Is this dish safe for people with allergies?
While Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta is generally safe, it’s important to consider individual allergies. Ensure that the sausage and any additional ingredients used are free from allergens like gluten, dairy, or specific spices you may be sensitive to. Always check ingredient labels and consider alternatives if necessary!
Buttery Cabbage-and-Sausage Pasta: A Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer, then add the sausage, cooking until browned and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sausage is cooked, add the unsalted butter and let it melt completely.
- Add the thinly sliced yellow onion to the skillet. Sauté until translucent and tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, fennel seeds, and crushed red pepper, cooking for another minute.
- Add the shredded cabbage and sprinkle with kosher salt. Cook until the cabbage wilts down, about 10 minutes.
- While the cabbage wilts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gemelli pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain the pasta, and add it to the skillet with the sausage and cabbage.
- Pour in reserved pasta water, then add the grated cheese and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve garnished with additional cheese, crushed red pepper, and chopped dill.