Alright, my friend, if you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, comfort, and just a little bit of Southern charm, this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is about to become your new best friend. Imagine savory sausage, perfectly seasoned shrimp, and tender cabbage, all cooked together in a skillet with a touch of spice and a whole lot of love. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with the most irresistible smells and makes your taste buds do a happy dance.
Trust me, once you taste this combo, you’ll be hooked. It’s cozy, satisfying, and a total crowd-pleaser. So, whether you’re cooking for your family, a casual get-together, or just treating yourself to something soul-satisfying, this dish is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it.
Why You’ll Love Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
This recipe isn’t just about throwing ingredients together—it’s about creating a flavorful experience. Here’s why this dish is a winner:
Versatile
This meal is perfect for just about any occasion. You can make it for a simple dinner after a long day or serve it up at your next dinner party. You’ll definitely hear “wow, what’s in this?” and find yourself handing out the recipe by the end of the night.
Budget-Friendly
You don’t need to break the bank to make something delicious. The ingredients for this dish are easy to find and fairly inexpensive, so you can make a hearty meal without feeling guilty about your wallet.
Quick and Easy
No complicated steps here! This recipe is easy to follow, and even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll feel like a pro in no time. All you need is a hot skillet and a little patience—this one’s foolproof!
Customizable
You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your taste. Want more heat? Throw in some chili flakes. Love garlic? Go ahead and add more. This dish is all about making it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing
This dish is a guaranteed hit with both adults and kids. The combination of shrimp, sausage, and cabbage is simply unbeatable, and everyone at the table will leave with a satisfied belly.

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Ingredients in Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful dish:
- Cabbage: The star of the show. It adds a mild sweetness and crispy texture when fried.
- Shrimp: Fresh, juicy shrimp that soak up all the savory goodness of the seasonings.
- Sausage: Smoky sausage brings the perfect balance of flavor and richness to this dish.
- Onions: A little sweetness and crunch to balance out the dish.
- Garlic: You can never go wrong with garlic—adds that amazing fragrance and depth of flavor.
- Bell Peppers: For a pop of color and mild sweetness.
- Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, and your favorite spices—don’t forget the cayenne if you like a little kick!
- Olive Oil: To fry everything up to perfection.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s jump right into how you can bring this dish to life!
Preheat Your Skillet
Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. A good preheating ensures everything cooks evenly and crisps up nicely. We’re going for that perfect balance of crispy cabbage and tender shrimp and sausage.
Cook the Sausage
Add the sausage slices to the skillet, and let them cook until they’re browned and slightly crispy. This is where the flavor really starts to build, so don’t rush it!
Add the Shrimp
Toss in the shrimp once the sausage is nice and crispy. Cook them until they turn pink and tender, about 2-3 minutes on each side. When that shrimp sizzles and starts to smell amazing, you know you’re on the right track.
Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add in the onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Let them soften and caramelize for a few minutes. This step adds a sweet, savory depth to the dish. Trust me, you’ll love it.
Add the Cabbage
Now, it’s cabbage time! Toss the cabbage into the skillet and cook it down until it’s tender and slightly crispy at the edges. It should soak up all the wonderful flavors from the sausage and shrimp, and get a little bit of that golden brown color.
Season and Stir
Season everything with salt, pepper, and any other spices you love. If you like a little heat, throw in some cayenne or smoked paprika. Stir everything together, making sure each bite is packed with flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the cabbage is tender and everything is well-mixed, it’s time to serve. Dish it up hot, and enjoy the hearty, savory goodness!
How to Serve Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
This dish is so satisfying on its own, but if you’re looking to add a little something extra, here are some ideas:
Fresh Salads
Pair it with a crisp, light salad to balance out the rich flavors. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works wonders.
Crusty Bread
Warm, crusty bread is always a good idea for mopping up any leftover juices. Garlic bread, anyone?
Rice or Grains
If you want to add a bit more substance, serve it over rice or quinoa. The grains will soak up all that delicious sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.
Vegetable Sides
Add some roasted veggies, like green beans or carrots, to bring in some extra color and nutrients.
As a Standalone
Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy just as it is! Just garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and you’ve got yourself a meal.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Prep Ahead
Save time by chopping the cabbage and prepping your sausage and shrimp the night before. Store them in separate containers in the fridge for an easy, ready-to-go meal.
Spice It Up
Feel free to add extra spices, like cumin or chili flakes, to give this dish more kick.
Dietary Adjustments
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use turkey sausage or swap out the shrimp for chicken. There are plenty of ways to make this recipe fit your needs.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain that delicious flavor.
Double the Batch
This recipe freezes well, so if you’re cooking for a crowd or want to have leftovers, make a double batch and freeze it for later!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute sausage with something else?
A1: Absolutely! If you don’t have sausage, try using chicken or turkey sausage, or even bacon for that smoky flavor.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Then, when you’re ready to cook, it’s just a matter of tossing everything into the skillet!
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth if needed to loosen up the sauce.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Of course! Just make sure you use a large skillet or cook in batches if necessary.
Q7: What side dishes go well with this recipe?
A7: Serve it with a light salad, roasted veggies, or even a side of mashed potatoes to round out the meal.
Q8: Can I make this dish healthier?
A8: You can lighten it up by using lean sausage or swapping in cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Q9: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?
A9: A large skillet works best to get everything nice and crispy without overcrowding the pan.
Conclusion
And there you have it—a dish that’s not only flavorful but also super easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is sure to be a hit. It’s the kind of meal that fills your belly and warms your heart. So, grab your skillet, get cooking, and enjoy a dish that’s packed with comfort and flavor. You won’t regret it!
PrintFried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
A savory and flavorful dish with tender cabbage, succulent shrimp, and smoky sausage! This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is a one-skillet wonder that’s quick, easy, and sure to satisfy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or any time you’re craving something delicious!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet / Sauté
- Cuisine: Southern / Cajun
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- For extra flavor, feel free to add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
- You can also use other types of sausage such as Italian or chorizo for a different taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 150mg