If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with flavor, is easy to make, and is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds, then Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is the perfect dish to try! This Southern-inspired recipe combines tender cabbage, juicy shrimp, and savory smoked sausage, all cooked together in a pan to create a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also full of heart, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, casual family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
The beauty of Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage lies in its simplicity—each ingredient brings its own unique flavor to the table, and together they form an unforgettable dish. The cabbage is sautéed to perfection with smoky sausage, fresh shrimp, and a blend of seasonings that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re a fan of Southern cooking or just looking for a comforting and flavorful meal, this dish will quickly become one of your go-to favorites!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those who want a hearty, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of smoked sausage, shrimp, and cabbage makes for a flavorful dish with savory, smoky, and slightly sweet notes.
- One-Pan Wonder: This is a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze. You cook everything in one skillet, saving you time and effort.
- Low-Carb and Nutritious: This recipe is low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great option for those on a keto or low-carb diet. Plus, cabbage is rich in fiber and essential nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your meal.
Ingredients for Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 small head of cabbage (chopped): The cabbage is the star of the show in this dish. Its slightly sweet and earthy flavor is the perfect base for the shrimp and sausage, and as it cooks, it becomes tender and caramelized.
- 1/2 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined): Shrimp adds a burst of protein and a subtle briny sweetness to the dish. When cooked, they absorb the flavors of the sausage and seasonings, becoming succulent and juicy.
- 1/2 lb smoked sausage (sliced): The smoked sausage brings a savory, slightly smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the shrimp and cabbage. You can use any smoked sausage you prefer, such as kielbasa or andouille, for added depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic is a key flavor-building ingredient that enhances the overall richness of the dish. Its aromatic profile infuses the cabbage and sausage with a deliciously savory punch.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Olive oil is used to sauté the ingredients, helping to bring everything together and ensuring the cabbage becomes tender and caramelized.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: This adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick to the dish, complementing the sausage and giving the cabbage a lovely depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Basic seasonings like salt and pepper are essential to balance the flavors and enhance the natural taste of the ingredients.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish – optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that balances out the richness of the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by chopping the cabbage into small, bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about making them perfectly uniform; rustic chunks will work perfectly for this dish. Set the cabbage aside.
Next, peel and devein the shrimp, if not already done. You can leave the tails on or off, depending on your preference. Slice the smoked sausage into thin, bite-sized rounds.
Lastly, mince the garlic to release its aromatic oils. Keep all your ingredients nearby, as this dish cooks up quickly.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy on the edges, about 5-6 minutes. The sausage will release flavorful oils that will infuse the rest of the dish, so don’t be afraid to let it brown.
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