Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with a Southern classic that’s loaded with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a perfect mix of textures—Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage. This one-skillet wonder brings together juicy shrimp, savory sausage, and perfectly seasoned cabbage for a dinner that’s as comforting as it is speedy. Whether you’re after a dish that satisfies a hungry crowd or simply want an easy low-carb meal that feels special, you’ll be making Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a long grocery list to make an unforgettable Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage. These simple ingredients are chosen for their ability to add flavor, depth, and pops of color to every single bite. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Olive oil: Brings just the right amount of richness and helps everything sauté beautifully.
- Smoked sausage (12 oz, sliced): Adds smoky warmth and heartiness; Andouille or Cajun sausage will kick up the flavor even more.
- Large shrimp (1 lb, peeled & deveined): The sweet, briny shrimp cook up tender and balance out the fullness of the sausage.
- Medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and a mellow background flavor that anchors the dish.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings depth and irresistible aroma—don’t skip it!
- Green cabbage (1 medium head, cored and chopped): Mild and subtly sweet, it absorbs all the flavors and gives the best texture.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Adds color and gentle smokiness.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp, optional): For those who like a spicy kick, you’ll get just the right amount of heat.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for bringing everything together and highlighting each ingredient.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds warmth and a little zing to wake up your palate.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp): Just a splash brightens the dish and balances the richness perfectly.
How to Make Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your sliced smoked sausage and sauté until the slices are browned and crispy around the edges—about 4 to 5 minutes. The sausage should release some flavorful oils that will coat all the veggies later. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside, leaving those tasty drippings in the pan.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
With the same pan still hot, add the shrimp. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can be rubbery, so keep an eye on them! Once done, move the shrimp to the plate with the sausage. This way, your seafood stays perfectly tender for the final dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, toss in your chopped onion, sautéing for around 3 minutes until it softens and begins to turn translucent. The onion should pick up some of those savory flavors in the pan. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds, so it releases its aroma without burning.
Step 4: Wilt the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and give it a good toss. You want the cabbage to wilt and start caramelizing, which takes about 8–10 minutes. Stir it occasionally so it gets slightly browned in spots. This is where the magic happens—letting the cabbage soak up all the delicious bits left at the bottom of the skillet!
Step 5: Season and Combine
Once the cabbage has softened, sprinkle in the paprika, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and black pepper. Toss everything well to distribute the seasoning. Now, return the sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Drizzle in the apple cider vinegar, which instantly lifts the flavors. Let everything mingle over the heat for about 2 more minutes, making sure each bite gets its share of sausage, shrimp, and cabbage goodness.
How to Serve Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley gives Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage a pretty pop of green and a subtle fresh flavor. For extra dazzle, a quick squeeze of lemon brightens up the seafood, or a dusting of smoked paprika enhances the visual appeal and smokiness. If you love a hint of heat, a few chopped scallions or red pepper flakes can be added right before serving.
Side Dishes
This skillet meal is hearty enough to serve on its own, but it’s also beautifully complemented by a simple side. Think fluffy steamed rice (for soaking up every bit of flavor), creamy mashed cauliflower for a lower-carb option, or warm crusty bread to scoop everything up. For even more color, a crisp green salad makes an easy and refreshing pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
You can transform Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage from a casual weeknight dinner to party fare by serving it in small bowls with toothpicks at a gathering, or spooning it over cheesy grits for a Louisiana-style comfort meal. Try piling it into lettuce wraps for an unexpectedly fun, gluten-free handheld feast. However you serve it, people always come back for seconds!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage in an airtight container and pop it into the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. The flavors often deepen and meld overnight, making this dish just as tasty (if not more!) the next day. Enjoy within 3 days for best texture and taste.
Freezing
While sausage and cabbage freeze well, shrimp can sometimes lose their tenderness when thawed. If you do want to freeze leftovers, cool the dish completely and spoon it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
To reheat Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage, use a skillet over medium heat and stir gently until warmed through—this helps the shrimp stay juicy and the cabbage tender. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too: cover loosely and zap it in short bursts, stirring occasionally, to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Cajun or Andouille sausages are fantastic choices if you like spicier or smokier flavors, but any fully cooked smoked sausage will work in Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
No problem—white wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice can offer a similar tangy brightness at the end, keeping your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage tasting fresh.
Is this dish suitable for special diets?
Yes, Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is naturally gluten-free and low in carbohydrates, so it works for many dietary needs. Just double-check your sausage for any added fillers if you’re gluten-sensitive.
Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Sliced bell peppers, carrots, or even a handful of cherry tomatoes would bring extra color and sweetness to Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage. Feel free to get creative with what’s in season or in your fridge.
Do I need a special pan for this recipe?
A large, heavy skillet or Dutch oven is ideal. You want plenty of surface area so the cabbage can caramelize nicely. Nonstick or cast iron both work well for Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistible about a sizzling skillet of Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage—it’s bold, cozy, and full of Southern spirit. If you’re craving a meal that comes together fast and brings everyone to the table, you can’t go wrong with this recipe. Give it a try soon, and share with family or friends who need a little weeknight magic!
Print
Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and hearty dish combining the flavors of fried cabbage with juicy shrimp and savory smoked sausage, creating a satisfying meal with a Southern flair.
Ingredients
For the Fried Cabbage:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
For the Shrimp & Sausage:
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat olive oil.
- Cook sausage: Add sliced sausage, cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook shrimp: In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté onion: Add onion to the skillet, sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Cook cabbage: Add chopped cabbage, cook for 8–10 minutes until wilted and slightly caramelized. Season with paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine ingredients: Return sausage and shrimp to the skillet, drizzle with apple cider vinegar, toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, use Cajun or Andouille sausage.
- You can also add bell peppers or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 165 mg
