Slow Cooker Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Apples
Enjoy the comfort of a slow-cooked meal with this flavorful combination of cabbage, apples, and kielbasa. A true celebration of humble ingredients.
This slow cooker cabbage, apple, and kielbasa is an excellent choice year-round. There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a slow-cooked meal on a busy day, and this hearty kielbasa and cabbage stew delivers cozy flavors with minimal effort. Combining tender cabbage, apples, savory kielbasa, and a tangy, sweet-sour broth, this dish strikes the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
It’s also easy—slice the ingredients, add them to the slow cooker, and press the start button. The crock pot does all the work.
Whether serving it on a chilly weeknight or preparing it for a casual weekend meal with friends or family, this recipe is versatile, satisfying, and utterly delicious. Pair it with crusty bread or spoon it over mounds of mashed potatoes for a truly comforting experience.
If you love experimenting, the recipe is endlessly adaptable. You can swap kielbasa for smoked sausage or a plant-based alternative to make it vegetarian. Add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicier kick. Or, stir in some creamy Dijon mustard for extra depth. No matter how you make it, this slow-cooker kielbasa, cabbage, and apples is a classic that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love It
Set-it-and-forget-it easy. Everything goes into the slow cooker—no browning or fuss required.
Sweet and savory flavors. Apples and brown sugar balance the richness of kielbasa and tang of vinegar.
Cozy and hearty. This all-in-one meal is filling, flavorful, and perfect for fall or winter evenings.
Budget-friendly ingredients. Cabbage, apples, and kielbasa make a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Minimal cleanup. Just one slow cooker and a cutting board—perfect for busy nights.
Ingredient Notes
- Kielbasa: Smoked sausage brings richness and heartiness—use pork or turkey kielbasa.
- Apples: Choose firm, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji that hold up to slow cooking.
- Cabbage: Half a head, thinly sliced, softens and sweetens as it cooks.
- Onion: Adds savory base flavor—yellow or white onions work well.
- Brown sugar: Balances the tang and deepens the sweetness of the apples.
- Apple juice & vinegar: The liquid base for the dish, adding acidity and moisture.
- Salt & pepper: Keeps the seasoning simple and balanced.
Steps to Make Slow Cooker Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Apples
- Layer the sliced kielbasa, apples, cabbage, and onion in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the mixture.
- Pour in the apple juice and vinegar, then season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 to 7 hours, or until the cabbage and apples are tender.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or dinner rolls.
Recipe Variations
- Meat: Use another type of smoked sausage. Chorizo or Andouille could add spice or use a turkey or chicken smoked sausage.
- Vegetables: Make it heartier with diced potatoes, carrots, and celery.
- Spices: Caraway seeds or mustard seeds could enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Beans: Add white beans for a boost of protein and creamy texture.
- Heat: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or fresh peppers for a spicy kick.
What to Serve With the Dish
- Bread: Serve with dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up the tangy juices.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the smoky slow cooker kielbasa, cabbage, and apples.
- Polenta: Creamy polenta is a comforting dish that pairs nicely with the textures of the kielbasa and cabbage.
- Salad: Add a tossed green salad with a light vinaigrette to provide contrast and balance to the meal.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate: Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.Freeze: Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat: Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. Or microwave in a covered dish in 1-minute increments, stirring between intervals, until thoroughly heated.
Slow Cooker Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Apples
Ingredients
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 2 medium apples, cored, sliced
- 1/2 head cabbage, sliced thinly
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apple juice
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Combine: Add the sliced kielbasa, apples, cabbage, onion, brown sugar, apple juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.
- Slow Cook: Put the lid on and cook on low for 5 to 7 hours or until the cabbage and apples are tender.
- Serve: Transfer to bowls and serve with crusty bread or rolls. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Disclaimer:
Our nutritional information is based on a third-party application that analyzes the ingredients list to determine the values. The information is meant to be helpful, but should be considered an estimate. Values may differ depending on measurements, brands, serving variations, and database availability.
