Smothered Cabbage & Baked Turkey Wings: A Soulful Comfort Dish

Discover the ultimate recipe for Smothered Cabbage & Baked Turkey Wings! Packed with bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this Southern-inspired dish is the perfect comfort meal to satisfy your cravings. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love Smothered Cabbage & Baked Turkey Wings

This recipe combines tender, flavorful turkey wings with savory smothered cabbage for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The Cajun spices, smoked sausage, and colorful vegetables create a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s versatile—you can pair it with rice, cornbread, or your favorite side dishes.

Smothered Cabbage & Baked Turkey Wings

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to whip up this irresistible dish.

For Smothered Cabbage

• 1 medium-sized cabbage, chopped
• 1 pound smoked sausage (like andouille), sliced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

For Baked Turkey Wings

• 2-3 pounds turkey wings
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tbsp poultry seasoning (like Kinder’s)
• 1 tbsp garlic purée
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, 1 orange bell pepper, 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Lemon and vinegar (for cleaning)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Wings

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Clean the turkey wings thoroughly using lemon and vinegar, then rinse with water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, mix the turkey wings with olive oil, garlic purée, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (optional), and poultry seasoning. Coat the wings evenly.

Step 2: Assemble the Baking Dish

1. In an oven-safe dish, add half a stick of butter, sliced onions, and bell peppers.
2. Arrange the seasoned turkey wings on top in a single layer. Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth.
3. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.

Step 3: Finish Baking

1. After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 45 minutes.
2. Check that the turkey wings are fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 4: Make the Smothered Cabbage

1. Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Season the cabbage with paprika, Cajun seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, mixing it into the cabbage. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 30-35 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Smothered cabbage and baked turkey wings pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

• Fluffy white rice to soak up all the delicious juices.
• Cornbread for a classic Southern touch.
• Mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
• Roasted vegetables for a lighter option.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

• Season Generously: Don’t shy away from spices! Cajun seasoning and paprika add incredible depth to this dish.
• Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and season your turkey wings in advance to save time.
• Customize Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage, onions, and peppers make a big difference in flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different meat instead of turkey wings?

Yes! You can substitute turkey wings with chicken drumsticks, thighs, or even pork chops. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely. Simply omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, both the turkey wings and cabbage can be prepared a day in advance and reheated before serving.

What type of smoked sausage should I use?

Andouille sausage is traditional for Southern dishes, but any smoked sausage will work well.

Smothered Cabbage & Baked Turkey Wings

Smothered Cabbage & Baked Turkey Wings are the ultimate comfort food combo, blending bold flavors with hearty ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it today, and let your taste buds savor the magic!