Cabbage and noodles is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With just a few easy-to-find ingredients like cabbage, noodles, butter, and seasoning, this meal is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, tasty, and filling option.
Inspired by the traditional Eastern European dish Haluski, which combines cabbage, noodles, and butter, this version keeps things light and easy. Adding Kielbasa, a delicious Polish sausage, takes this dish to the next level, offering a savory, satisfying bite that complements the cabbage and noodles perfectly.
The best part about cabbage and noodles is how versatile it can be. The cabbage becomes soft and tender, blending perfectly with the noodles and Kielbasa. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or just need a quick meal, this dish is a winner.
Also, be sure to try these nokedli, chicken paprikash, and instant pot goulash -they're so delicious you'll want to add them to your weekly menu plan!
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Ingredients to Make Cabbage and Noodles:
These ingredients combine to create a flavorful, comforting cabbage and noodles dish!
- Egg Noodles. The soft, chewy base that pairs perfectly with cabbage and kielbasa.
- Fresh Green Cabbage. Adds a tender, slightly sweet texture that balances the savory ingredients.
- Kielbasa Sausage. A smoky, savory sausage that enriches the dish with its flavor. I purchased the Kielbasa sausage from my local Costco.
- Butter. Adds richness and helps sauté the cabbage and onions.
- Bacon. Provides a crispy texture and smoky flavor, enhancing the dish.
- Caraway Seeds. Adds an earthy, slightly citrusy flavor, typical in Eastern European cuisine.
- Onion. Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed, complementing the cabbage and sausage.
- Salt and Black Pepper. Season the dish, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
How to Make Cabbage and Noodles:
Follow these steps to make flavorful cabbage and noodles:
- Cook the noodles: Cook the noodles until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: In a pot, cook bacon over medium heat until browned. Transfer the bacon to a plate.
- Cook the Sausage : Cook the kielbasa sausage in the same pot until browned. Transfer to a plate.
- Cook the Onion: Place the onion in the skillet and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and stir until fragrant.
- Cook the Cabbage: Add the cabbage to the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes. Stir in the bacon, sausage, and caraway seeds, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
- Add the Noodles: Stir in the noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Tips for Making Cabbage and Noodles:
- Use fresh cabbage for the best flavor and texture. Wilted cabbage can affect the taste and consistency of the dish.
- Adjust the seasoning as needed. Taste as you go and feel free to add extra salt, pepper, or even a pinch of paprika to suit your preferences.
- Skip the caraway seeds if you don't have them on hand. You can still make the dish delicious by simply adding extra black pepper or a sprinkle of thyme for added flavor.
- Use olive oil instead of bacon if you prefer a lighter version or want to skip the bacon fat. It will still provide richness without the meat.
- Make it vegan by skipping the kielbasa and bacon. You can replace them with sautéed mushrooms or tempeh for a hearty plant-based alternative.
- For extra richness, use more butter or add a splash of cream for a creamy variation.
- Add a squeeze of lemon just before serving to bring a fresh, tangy contrast to the richness of the dish.
Storing and Reheating the Leftovers:
- Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheat: To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave. You can find more info about it here.
📖 Recipe
Cabbage and Noodles
Equipment
- a large stock pot
- a spatula
Ingredients
- 2 pounds green cabbage (cored and chopped)
- 12 oz Kielbasa sausage (sliced)
- 3 thick-bacon slices
- 12 oz diced yellow onion
- 2 garlic cloves (peeled and minced)
- 2 teaspoons dried caraway seeds
- ¼ cup butter
- 6 oz dried wide egg noodles
- salt and black pepper (to taste)
Method
- Cook the noodles until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until browned. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, leaving about 1 ½ tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
- Cook the kielbasa sausage in the same pot until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
- Melt the butter and add the onion to the skillet. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and stir until fragrant.
- Add the cabbage to the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes. Stir in the bacon, caraway seeds, and sausage, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
- Stir in the noodles and cook for about 2 minutes until warmed through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Notes
- Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Rika says
An easy and comforting dish you'll love—perfect for any meal!