Save A hearty, comforting skillet dish featuring smoky kielbasa, tender potatoes, and sweet cabbage, all pan-fried to golden perfection—a cozy meal inspired by rustic Midwestern traditions.
This recipe brings back warm family dinners where the whole house smelled like home and comfort food.
Ingredients
- Smoked Kielbasa Sausage: 14 oz (400 g), sliced into ½-inch rounds
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Green Bell Pepper: 1 medium, diced
- Green Cabbage: 3 cups (about ½ head), thinly sliced
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: 1 lb (450 g), diced into ½-inch cubes
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Unsalted Butter: 1 tbsp
- Smoked Paprika: ½ tsp
- Dried Thyme: ½ tsp
- Black Pepper: ½ tsp freshly ground
- Kosher Salt: ¾ tsp plus more to taste
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Whole-Grain Mustard or Sour Cream: for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the kielbasa slices and cook until browned on both sides, 4–5 minutes. Remove kielbasa from the pan and set aside.
- Step 2:
- Add remaining olive oil and butter to the skillet. Stir in diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and starting to soften, about 8–10 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the sliced cabbage, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cabbage is wilted and tender, about 5–7 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Return the browned kielbasa to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes to heat through and meld flavors. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Step 6:
- Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot, with mustard or sour cream if desired.
Save This dish always reminds me of cozy evenings spent around the table with family sharing stories and laughter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside rye bread or crusty rolls for a complete rustic meal that pairs well with a crisp lager or a dry Riesling.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to keep ingredients tender and flavorful.
Variations
Try adding diced apples for sweetness or swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder for a smoky heat twist.
Save 
The perfect blend of smoky, savory, and tender notes makes this skillet hash a go-to comfort meal any time of year.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of sausage works best here?
Smoked kielbasa provides a rich, smoky flavor essential to the dish. Ensure it’s sliced evenly for consistent cooking.
- → Can I substitute the potatoes?
Yes, red or sweet potatoes offer delicious alternatives but may alter the final texture and sweetness slightly.
- → How should I cook the cabbage to retain tenderness?
Sauté sliced cabbage with spices until wilted but still tender, usually about 5–7 minutes, stirring regularly.
- → Is butter necessary along with olive oil?
Butter adds richness and enhances flavor when combined with olive oil, but olive oil alone can be used for a lighter option.
- → What sides complement this hearty skillet?
Rustic bread like rye or crusty rolls pair well, as do crisp lagers or dry Rieslings to balance the dish’s richness.
- → How can I adjust seasoning for spiciness?
Adding a pinch of cayenne or fresh chili flakes enhances heat; start small to maintain balance.