If you’re craving comfort food with a Southern twist and a punch of savory flavor, let me introduce you to Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage. This one-pan wonder is hearty, colorful, and sizzling with smoky sausage, juicy shrimp, and vegetables all melded together for a dinner that packs a serious flavor punch. Not only does it come together surprisingly quickly, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser for weeknights and special gatherings alike. Juicy shrimp and sizzling sausage join crispy-tender cabbage and a handful of spices for the kind of meal that leaves everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage recipe is packed with just a few staple ingredients that totally transform into something magical together. Each element brings a unique flavor and texture, so don’t skip any if you can help it!
- Olive oil: Adds heart-healthy fat and helps get perfect browning on your sausage, shrimp, and veggies.
- Smoked sausage: Choose your favorite kind (andouille, kielbasa, or any spicy link) for richness, smokiness, and that satisfying, meaty bite.
- Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp become juicy, sweet, and tender—absolutely irreplaceable in this combo.
- Onion: Provides a mellow sweetness and the all-important savory base for all the other ingredients to shine.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings irresistible aroma and depth, mellowed perfectly by sautéing.
- Green bell pepper: Beautifully vibrant and slightly sweet, the bell pepper adds crisp texture and bright color.
- Green cabbage: The star of the dish! Chopped cabbage becomes meltingly tender and sweet as it cooks, soaking up all those meaty flavors.
- Paprika: Smoky and rich, paprika provides color and gentle earthiness that brings the whole dish together.
- Onion powder: An extra bump of savory flavor that accentuates both the sausage and the cabbage.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Add a touch if you like a little heat—totally up to your spice level preferences.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, so don’t forget to taste as you go for the perfect balance.
- Chopped parsley or green onions (optional garnish): A shower of fresh herbs on top adds color and a lovely, fresh finish.
How to Make Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by warming a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, then swirl in the olive oil. Add your sliced sausage, and let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4–5 minutes until each round is deliciously golden and crisp on the outside. When your sausage has that perfect color and scent, scoop it out and set aside for now—you’ll want all those meaty drippings for the rest of the dish!
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
To the same skillet (no need to wash it!), add your shrimp in a single layer. They’ll only need 2–3 minutes per side until they’re just pink and cooked through—keep a close eye so they stay juicy and don’t overcook. Remove your shrimp and set them with the sausage for now. All these flavors are building in your pan, which will make your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage irresistibly tasty.
Step 3: Cook the Veggies
Add the onion, garlic, and green bell pepper to the same skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is softened and starting to smell absolutely divine. The vegetables help deglaze the pan, lifting up all those flavorful browned bits from the sausage and shrimp.
Step 4: Wilt the Cabbage
Next, pile in the chopped cabbage and sprinkle with paprika, onion powder, cayenne (if you’re using), plus a generous pinch each of salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and let the cabbage cook for 10–12 minutes. It will soften, shrink down, and start to caramelize in places—exactly what you want for the best texture and sweet-savory flavor!
Step 5: Bring Everything Together
Return the sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Give everything a good stir so all the goodies are evenly distributed. Let the whole mixture heat through for another 2–3 minutes, just until the flavors have melded and everything is hot throughout. Give your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
If you like, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or green onions as a beautiful finishing touch. Serve your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage hot, and get ready for rave reviews at the table!
How to Serve Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
Garnishes
For the ultimate pop of color and freshness, a handful of chopped parsley or green onions really wakes up the dish just before serving. A wedge of lemon is also a simple yet zesty garnish that brightens each bite of Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage without overpowering the savory flavors.
Side Dishes
While this dish is seriously satisfying all by itself, it also plays nicely with a few simple sides. Warm cornbread adds a touch of sweetness and is perfect for sopping up any extra juices. If you’re keeping things low-carb, serve with cauliflower rice or just as it is for a complete one-pan meal. Steamed jasmine rice or even a bowl of creamy grits are other Southern-inspired favorites that pair beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage family-style in a big cast iron skillet straight on the table. If you’re hosting, dish it into individual bowls and garnish each with fresh herbs for a more elegant touch. You can even tuck the mix into soft tortillas or crisp lettuce wraps to turn leftovers into a totally new hand-held meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making reheated leftovers seriously craveable. Just make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing it up for the best results.
Freezing
While the sausage and cabbage freeze like a dream, shrimp can become a little rubbery when frozen and reheated. If you do freeze your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage, try to eat it within one month for best flavor and texture. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the portion in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often until hot. You can also microwave it in short bursts, but keep a close eye so the shrimp don’t overcook. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up as it reheats.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds bold flavor, you can use andouille for a Cajun flair, kielbasa for milder smokiness, or even turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter twist in your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage.
What size shrimp is best?
Large shrimp (typically 21–25 count per pound) work wonderfully here, as they stay juicy and don’t get lost among the cabbage and sausage pieces. If you use smaller shrimp, just watch the cooking time so they don’t dry out.
Is this recipe spicy?
The cayenne pepper adds a gentle heat, but you can easily leave it out or dial it up. The base flavor is savory and only mildly spicy, so feel free to adjust for your family’s preferences!
Can I make Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage ahead of time?
You sure can—just follow the steps as usual, let it cool, and refrigerate. Reheat gently for the best taste and texture. Add a splash of broth if needed when reheating to keep everything moist.
Can I make it vegetarian?
While the classic Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is all about seafood and sausage, you can certainly try a vegetarian spin by swapping in hearty mushrooms and smoked tofu for protein and smokiness. The method stays much the same!
Final Thoughts
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is the kind of soul-warming meal that’s guaranteed to become a go-to in your dinner rotation. It’s quick, deeply flavorful, and as comforting as a home-cooked hug. Give it a try soon—you might just find it’s your new favorite too!
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Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and hearty one-pan meal, this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage dish is a Southern-inspired delight that combines the savory goodness of smoked sausage and succulent shrimp with the earthy sweetness of green cabbage. Seasoned with a blend of spices and cooked to tender perfection, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Dish:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
- 6 cups green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Cook Sausage: Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Cabbage and Season: Add the chopped cabbage and season with paprika, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes until tender and slightly browned.
- Combine and Garnish: Return the shrimp and sausage to the skillet, stir to combine, and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- This dish can be made low-carb and keto-friendly by omitting any added sugars or starchy sides.
- It pairs well with cornbread, rice, or can be enjoyed on its own for a satisfying one-pan meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
