Slow Cooker Cabbage and Potatoes Recipe

This Slow Cooker Cabbage and Potatoes recipe is an easy, comforting, and budget-friendly dish made with tender cabbage, buttery potatoes, onions, garlic, and simple savory seasonings. Everything cooks slowly together until the vegetables become perfectly tender and flavorful. It's an old-fashioned comfort food that makes a delicious side dish for family dinners, holidays, or relaxed weekend meals.

The slow cooker does almost all the work, making this recipe especially convenient on busy days. Serve it with smoked sausage, roasted chicken, pork chops, baked ham, or warm cornbread for a satisfying homemade meal.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
• 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Optional Additions

• 8 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
• 4 to 6 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

How to Make Slow Cooker Cabbage and Potatoes

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut any large potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Chop the cabbage into medium-sized pieces and slice the onion. Mince the garlic.

2. Layer the Slow Cooker

Place the potatoes in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the chopped cabbage, sliced onion, and minced garlic on top.

3. Season the Vegetables

Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, onion powder, and garlic powder evenly over the vegetables. These simple seasonings add plenty of savory flavor as everything cooks.

4. Add Broth and Butter

Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the vegetables. Cut the butter into small pieces and distribute it over the top.

5. Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cabbage is soft.

6. Stir and Adjust the Seasoning

Carefully stir the cabbage and potatoes together. Taste and add additional salt or black pepper if needed.

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. For an extra hearty version, add sliced smoked sausage or crispy bacon before serving.

Tips for the Best Cabbage and Potatoes

• Choose the right potatoes: Baby potatoes and Yukon Gold potatoes work particularly well because they become tender while holding their shape.
• Don't chop the cabbage too finely: Larger pieces maintain a better texture after several hours in the slow cooker.
• Use broth for extra flavor: Chicken broth creates a richer savory flavor, while vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version.
• Don't skip the butter: Butter adds richness and helps give the vegetables a delicious homemade flavor.
• Add sausage: Smoked sausage turns this simple side dish into a hearty one-pot meal.

What to Serve with Cabbage and Potatoes

Slow Cooker Cabbage and Potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork chops, smoked sausage, baked ham, meatloaf, or grilled meats. For a simple Southern-inspired meal, serve them with warm cornbread and a fresh green salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?

Yes. Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes can be used. Cut larger potatoes into evenly sized chunks so they cook at the same rate.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and make sure any optional additions, such as sausage or bacon, are omitted.

Can I add meat?

Yes. Smoked sausage is especially delicious with cabbage and potatoes. Bacon, kielbasa, or cooked ham can also add extra savory flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Allow the leftovers to cool, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours on LOW
• Total Time: About 6 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American
• Keyword: Slow Cooker Cabbage and Potatoes

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for an easy comfort-food recipe that uses inexpensive ingredients, this Slow Cooker Cabbage and Potatoes is a great choice. The cabbage becomes tender, the potatoes soak up the flavorful broth and seasonings, and the butter adds a rich finishing touch. With very little preparation required, it's the kind of simple homemade recipe you'll want to make again and again.