There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of crispy cabbage, juicy shrimp, and savory sausage all sautéed together in one skillet. This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is a quick, flavorful dish that brings together bold Southern-inspired flavors for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a side dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Trust me, one bite will have you coming back for more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating a dish that’s as hearty as it is flavorful. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinners.
Protein-Packed: Juicy shrimp and savory sausage provide a protein-rich base that keeps you full and satisfied.
Flavorful Twist: The crispy cabbage adds texture while soaking up the rich flavors of the sausage and spices, creating a harmonious blend of taste and crunch.
Customizable: Swap out the sausage for chicken or add extra veggies like bell peppers or onions to make it your own. The possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. The combination of tender shrimp, savory sausage, and crispy cabbage makes it universally appealing.
Ingredients
Cabbage: Fresh green or savoy cabbage provides the base of this dish. Thinly slice it for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Shrimp: Large or jumbo shrimp cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the dish beautifully. Peel and devein them before using.
Sausage: Use smoked sausage, Andouille, or chorizo for added depth of flavor. Slice it thinly for easy browning.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the ingredients and preventing sticking. A neutral oil like vegetable oil works well too.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds aromatic depth to the dish. Don’t skip this essential ingredient!
Onion: Diced onion enhances the flavor profile with its natural sweetness. Caramelize it slightly for deeper notes.
Spices (Optional): Add a pinch of paprika, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by slicing the cabbage thinly, dicing the onion, and slicing the sausage into rounds. Set aside.
Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the sliced sausage until golden and slightly crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, then stir in minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the Cabbage: Increase the heat to high and toss in the sliced cabbage. Stir frequently, allowing the edges to crisp up while the center remains tender. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and nestle the shrimp in between the cabbage. Season generously with salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Serve Hot: Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for added color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Serve Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
This dish pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Lemon Wedges: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for added brightness and zest.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use Precooked Sausage: If short on time, opt for precooked sausage slices to speed up the process.
Adjust Spices: Customize the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper depending on your preference.
Swap Proteins: Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different twist. Or omit the shrimp altogether for a vegetarian version.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Double the Batch: This recipe scales easily, so feel free to double it for larger gatherings or meal prep.
FAQ Section
1. Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh? Yes! Thaw the frozen shrimp completely before using and pat them dry to ensure they cook evenly.
2. What type of sausage should I use? Smoked sausage, Andouille, or chorizo all work beautifully. Choose based on your preference for smoky, spicy, or mild flavors.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cabbage and sausage mixture in advance and add the shrimp just before serving.
4. How do I store leftover fried cabbage? Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to prevent drying out.
5. Can I freeze this dish? Not recommended, as freezing may alter the texture of the cabbage and shrimp. Best enjoyed fresh.
6. Can I double the recipe? Definitely. Doubling the recipe is simple and ensures you have plenty for leftovers or feeding a crowd.
7. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet? Yes, this dish is naturally low in carbs, making it perfect for those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
8. Can I skip the sausage? Absolutely! For a lighter version, omit the sausage and load up on extra veggies or proteins like chickpeas or tofu.
9. Do I need to peel the shrimp? Peeling the shrimp beforehand ensures easier eating and better flavor absorption during cooking.
10. Can I add other vegetables to the dish? Yes! Bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms would all pair beautifully with the cabbage and shrimp.
Conclusion
There you have it a delicious and satisfying Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage that’s sure to become a go-to meal in your kitchen. With its perfect blend of crispy cabbage, juicy shrimp, and savory sausage, it’s a dish that satisfies both your cravings and creativity. So gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and let’s cook something amazing together! Your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is a hearty, flavorful dish packed with tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and perfectly sautéed cabbage. A savory, satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare!
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced sausage. Cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. - Sauté the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. - Cook the Cabbage:
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp. - Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet with the cabbage. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure all ingredients are heated through. - Garnish:
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Sausage Variations: You can use different types of sausage such as Italian, chorizo, or chicken sausage for different flavor profiles.
- Shrimp Alternatives: If you don’t like shrimp, try using chicken breast, turkey sausage, or even smoked sausage for variety.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to make the dish heartier.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of smoked paprika and pepper to control the spiciness. You can also add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Serve with Rice: This dish pairs nicely with rice, mashed potatoes, or even a side of cornbread.
- Make Ahead: This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat in a skillet when ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 160mg