When you crave a comforting Southern skillet meal that bursts with bold and hearty flavors, nothing hits the spot quite like this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe. It perfectly marries tender cabbage, smoky sausage, and succulent shrimp, creating a dish that feels both homey and indulgent. Each bite brings a delightful crunch paired with juicy, savory goodness, making it an all-time favorite for cozy weeknight dinners or impressive weekend feasts. This recipe is as easy to make as it is satisfying, promising to become a staple you’ll want to revisit over and over.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—whether it’s adding smoky depth, fresh brightness, or a satisfying texture—that comes together in perfect harmony.
- Olive oil: For a light, slightly fruity base that sautés everything to perfection without overpowering flavors.
- Smoked sausage (12 oz): Adds that irresistible smoky richness and a meaty bite that anchors the dish.
- Large shrimp (1 pound): Brings a tender, juicy contrast with a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the sausage.
- Medium onion (chopped): Provides natural sweetness and a lovely aroma when sautéed.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses the dish with warming, savory notes that excite the palate.
- Green cabbage (1 medium head, chopped): The main star with its crisp texture and mild flavor that soaks up all the delicious seasonings.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds color and subtle smoky depth with just a hint of earthiness.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Offers a touch of heat to elevate the overall flavor profile.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the taste elements, balancing the flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds mild spice and complexity.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Introduces bright acidity that lifts the heaviness and ties everything together.
How to Make Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the smoked sausage slices and cook them until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust, which takes about 4 to 5 minutes. This step renders the sausage fat that will flavor the entire dish, so take your time to get that perfect caramelization. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking ensures they stay juicy and tender. Once ready, remove the shrimp and set them alongside the sausage.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they become soft and translucent, releasing natural sweetness. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds to prevent burning, allowing its fragrant aroma to develop.
Step 4: Cook the Cabbage
Add the chopped green cabbage to the skillet and stir well to combine. Let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it wilts and becomes slightly caramelized around the edges. This step transforms cabbage’s texture into something tender yet still with a slight crunch, enhancing its natural flavor beautifully.
Step 5: Season and Combine
Sprinkle in paprika, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good toss to evenly distribute the spices. Return the sausage and shrimp to the skillet, tossing again to meld all the flavors. Finally, drizzle with apple cider vinegar and cook for another 2 minutes so the vinegar’s tang melds seamlessly with the savory ingredients. Then, your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions brighten this dish wonderfully while adding a pop of vibrant color. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a subtle kick for spice lovers. Consider a wedge of lemon on the side for an additional fresh zing that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Side Dishes
This hearty skillet meal pairs beautifully with light, simple sides. A crisp green salad or steamed rice makes a lovely accompaniment, soaking up all the flavorful juices. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables alongside to keep things balanced and nutritious.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe atop buttery grits or creamy mashed potatoes to make it extra indulgent. Another great idea is to stuff it into warm tortillas for a Southern-style wrap that’s perfect for casual lunches or picnics. The possibilities to customize this dish are truly endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
While the shrimp’s texture may change slightly upon freezing, you can freeze the dish if needed. Transfer cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve the shrimp’s tenderness and prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy. Stir occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh sausage instead of smoked sausage?
Absolutely! Fresh sausage will work, though smoked sausage adds that signature depth of flavor. If using fresh sausage, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic that smoky taste.
Is this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe spicy?
The recipe has a mild heat from optional red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more flakes or including a dash of hot sauce to suit your preference.
Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?
Yes, chicken or even firm tofu would be great alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly—chicken should be cooked through, and tofu can be pan-fried until golden before adding to the cabbage mixture.
What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is the traditional choice for this recipe because of its crisp texture and mild flavor. However, you can experiment with savoy or Napa cabbage, which will offer a slightly different texture and sweetness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe is naturally gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Always double-check sausage labels to ensure no gluten-containing fillers were added.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe is a true celebration of Southern comfort cooking, delivering big flavors with an easy-to-follow approach. I encourage you to give it a try—once you do, the blend of smoky sausage, tender shrimp, and vibrant cabbage will quickly win your heart and plate. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to share and savor again and again!
Print
Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is a flavorful Southern-inspired skillet meal combining smoky sausage, succulent shrimp, and tender cabbage sautéed with aromatic spices. It’s a quick and easy low-carb, gluten-free dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Sausage and Shrimp
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 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
Finishing
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until wilted and slightly caramelized.
- Season and combine: Sprinkle paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper over the cabbage. Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything to combine evenly.
- Finish with vinegar: Drizzle apple cider vinegar over the mixture and cook for another 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use Cajun or Andouille sausage instead of smoked sausage.
- Add diced bell peppers along with the onion for added color and sweetness.
- Include a splash of hot sauce if you prefer more heat in the dish.
