Easy Keto Smoked Sausage and Cabbage Skillet (One-Pan Dinner)

I love a cozy dinner that comes together fast. Especially one that makes my kitchen smell amazing while it cooks. What about you? That’s exactly why this keto smoked sausage and cabbage skillet is such a favorite at our house.

It’s a hearty, low-carb pork recipe with a lot of flavor. The best part? It all cooks in one pan, which means minimal cleanup on those crazy busy nights. I first made this on a whim when I needed a quick hit of comfort food. Now, it’s in our regular rotation. Even my pickier eaters ask for seconds—myself included. Lol!

Whether you’re meal prepping or just trying to get dinner on the table without any kid meltdowns…this easy smoked sausage and cabbage recipe checks all of the boxes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This is a super-easy and quick meal to put on the table. Here’s what goes into this simple keto smoked sausage and cabbage skillet:

• Smoked sausage – Adds bold, savory flavor. I used a nitrate-free beef sausage. You can use different kinds of smoked sausage such as chicken sausage, kielbasa, andouille sausage, Polish sausage, or turkey sausage. We prefer beef or pork, but use what you love!
• Green cabbage – Tender and slightly sweet when sautéed. It pairs perfectly with the smoky sausage.
• Onion – Adds a caramelized flavor base to the dish.
• Garlic – Because what one-pan dinner isn’t better with garlic?
• Butter – For richness and a perfect sear.
• Homemade Low-Carb Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce – I turned my daddy’s amazing BBQ sauce into a keto-friendly recipe!

Optional:

• Red pepper flakes – If you like a little heat, sprinkle some in at the end! My family loves the heat.
• Chicken broth or water – A splash helps steam the cabbage for extra tenderness.

Low-carb tip: Check the sausage label! Some brands sneak in sugar or fillers. Look for one with 1g carb or less per serving to keep it keto-friendly.

How to Make This Keto Smoked Sausage and Cabbage Skillet

Step 1: Melt the butter.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Step 2: Brown the sausage.

Slice the smoked sausage into coins or half-moons. Add to the skillet and sauté, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Remove the sausage and set it aside.

Step 3: Add the veggies.

Add chopped cabbage, diced onion, minced garlic, and butter to the skillet. Stir until the butter melts.

Step 4: Steam it down.

Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on medium-low heat.

Step 5: Add liquid & stir.

Uncover, stir well, and add water or broth. Cover again and continue cooking, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Finish softening.

Remove the lid, stir the cabbage from the bottom to redistribute. Add the remaining water if needed and cook until the cabbage is tender.

Step 7: Bring it together.

Return the sausage to the skillet. Add the homemade sugar-free BBQ sauce and stir together. Cook uncovered until done.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve hot and dig in.

Tip: Don’t want to make the keto BBQ sauce from scratch? A store-bought version without added sugar will work. But I think my homemade sauce has a deeper flavor and tastes just like real BBQ from the South!

Variations to This Recipe:

• Swap the protein – Try chicken sausage, kielbasa, andouille, or turkey sausage.
• Mix up the veggies – Add bell peppers, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or celery.
• Boost the flavor – Use broth instead of water when cooking the cabbage.
• Save time – Grab a pre-chopped cabbage bag for ease.

Smoked Sausage and Cabbage Skillet FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It keeps in the fridge up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until hot.

Is this keto and low-carb friendly?

Absolutely—just use sausage with 1g net carbs or less per serving.

Can I use red cabbage instead?

Yes, but it stays crunchier and will tint the whole dish purple. It’s not quite as sweet as green cabbage. You can definitely use it, but it will make the recipe turn out differently.

What sides go with it?

It’s great solo, but pairs well with keto cauliflower mash or a fresh green salad.

Can I freeze this?

Yep! Cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container or zippered storage bag. Freeze it up to 2 months, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Storage, Leftovers, & Reheating Tips

This dish reheats beautifully. I actually think leftovers taste better! With a big family, we don’t have leftovers often, but this one is great.

To store:

Let cool, then place in an airtight container. Refrigerate up to 4 days.

To reheat gently:

Use medium-low heat on the stove with a splash of broth or microwave at 50–70% power with a damp paper towel.

To freeze:

Cool completely and place in a freezer-safe container. Label with the date. (If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably discovered mystery food in the freezer before—lol!)

Meal prep win:

Freeze in single portions for grab-and-go keto lunches.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about this keto smoked sausage and cabbage skillet that feels like comfort in a pan. It’s quick, hearty, and packed with smoky BBQ flavor. Plus, it’s low-carb and only takes one pan to clean. And all the tired moms begin to cheer—lol! Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal planning for the week, this recipe is a keeper.

Tried it? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you in the comments!

📌 Don’t forget to pin it or save it for next time—easy dinners like this deserve a permanent spot in your rotation.

More Keto Sausage Recipes:

Keto Smoked Sausage with Peppers & Onions Skillet
Low Carb Cheesy Smoked Sausage Soup
Keto Sausage Platter with Cheese
Easy Keto Sheet Pan Sausage & Vegetables
Keto Smoked Sausage and Broccoli Casserole
Italian Sausage Parmesan Bake

You can access all of my Keto/Low Carb Recipes in my Keto/Low Carb Recipe Index or follow me on Pinterest for fabulous Keto/Low Carb Recipe Ideas.