Maple-Glazed Sausage Apple Cabbage

This maple-glazed sausage, apple, and cabbage sheet pan dinner transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular meal with minimal effort. The natural sweetness of apples and maple syrup balances perfectly with savory sausages and cabbage, creating a harmony of flavors that roast together beautifully. After discovering this recipe during a busy weeknight, it has become my go-to solution when I need something impressive yet uncomplicated.

I created this recipe when my farmers market haul included both cabbage and apples, and I needed something quick that would please my picky eaters. The combination was such a hit that it's now requested at least twice a month in our house.

Ingredients

• Pork sausages: add richness and protein. Look for high quality sausages with visible herbs and at least 80% meat content for best flavor.
• Green cabbage: transforms when roasted, becoming sweet and tender. Choose a firm head with tight leaves for freshest results.
• Apples: bring natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully. Firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala hold their shape while cooking.
• Red onion: adds aromatic depth and turns wonderfully sweet when roasted. Select firm onions with dry outer skins.
• Maple syrup: creates the glorious caramelization. Always use pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup, for authentic flavor.
• Whole grain mustard: provides texture and tangy contrast. The whole seeds pop pleasantly when you bite into them.
• Olive oil: helps everything roast evenly. A good quality extra virgin olive oil makes a noticeable difference.
• Apple cider vinegar: balances the sweetness with necessary acidity. Use raw unfiltered for extra flavor complexity.

Instructions

Prep Your Pan:

Line your largest sheet pan with parchment paper, making sure it has a rim to catch any delicious juices. Preheat your oven to 425°F, which is hot enough to create caramelization but not so hot that the maple syrup burns. This high heat ensures the cabbage gets tender while the sausages develop a beautiful crust.

Arrange Your Ingredients:

Place the cabbage wedges first, ensuring they have maximum contact with the hot pan. Next, scatter apple slices between cabbage pieces, then nestle the sausages on top where they can brown beautifully. Distribute red onion wedges throughout, focusing on areas that might otherwise be empty. This strategic arrangement ensures even cooking and maximum flavor development.

Create The Glaze:

Whisk together maple syrup, mustard, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar until completely emulsified. The mustard acts as a natural emulsifier, helping the oil and vinegar combine smoothly. Season with salt and pepper, tasting to ensure the balance of sweet, tangy and savory is perfect. This glaze will caramelize during roasting, creating a sticky, delicious coating.

Coat Everything Thoroughly:

Pour the glaze evenly over all ingredients, then use your hands or tongs to gently turn everything, ensuring each piece is coated. Pay special attention to the cabbage wedges, making sure some glaze gets between the layers. This thorough coating ensures flavor in every bite and helps prevent the cabbage from drying out.

Roast To Perfection:

Place the pan in the oven and set a timer for 15 minutes. At this point, turn the sausages and stir the vegetables to ensure even browning. Return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, watching for caramelization on the cabbage edges and ensuring sausages reach 160°F internal temperature. The apples should be tender but still hold their shape when done.

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The first time I made this recipe, I accidentally used twice the amount of mustard called for. That happy accident led to what my family now calls "the perfect glaze" – I've kept that ratio ever since. The extra tang from additional mustard perfectly balances the sweetness of the maple and apples, creating an almost addictive flavor profile.

Make-Ahead Options

This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Prepare the entire sheet pan meal and let it cool completely before storing in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight, making the leftovers sometimes even better than the original meal.

For extra convenience, you can prep all components ahead of time without cooking. Cut all vegetables and fruit, mix the glaze, and store everything separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply assemble on the sheet pan and roast according to the original instructions.

Seasonal Variations

Fall Harvest Version: Add 2 cups cubed butternut squash and substitute rosemary for thyme. The squash adds beautiful color and hearty texture while absorbing the maple glaze wonderfully.

Winter Comfort Version: Include 2 cups halved Brussels sprouts and add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the glaze. This creates a warming, cozy flavor profile perfect for cold evenings.

Spring Freshness Version: Add 1 bunch asparagus during the last 10 minutes of cooking and finish with fresh tarragon instead of thyme. This lighter variation highlights spring produce beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This sheet pan meal stands perfectly on its own, but there are several ways to elevate it further. For a complete dinner, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up the delicious pan juices. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, caramelized flavors.

For a brunch option, serve with fried or poached eggs on top. The runny yolk creates an incredible sauce that takes this dish to another level. When entertaining, I often double the recipe using two sheet pans, then serve it family style on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and apple slices.

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This recipe is a delightful interplay of sweet and savory. The caramelization achieved through proper roasting ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, substitute chicken or turkey sausages for pork. Choose gluten-free varieties if needed for dietary preferences.

→ Do apples get mushy when roasted?

Apples become tender but hold their shape when sliced thick and roasted with the other ingredients.

→ How do I ensure the cabbage doesn’t overcook?

Slice cabbage into wedges at least 2 cm thick and stir halfway through roasting to ensure even caramelization.

→ Is parchment paper necessary?

Parchment paper or foil makes cleanup easier but is optional. You can roast directly on the sheet pan if desired.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, fresh bread, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding baby potatoes or parsnips—just increase the glaze to coat all ingredients evenly.