Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage – A One-Pan Wonder Full of Flavor

 Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage – A One-Pan Wonder Full of Flavor

Looking for a quick, hearty, and irresistibly flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage is your answer. This Southern-inspired skillet meal combines smoky sausage, tender shrimp, and perfectly sautéed cabbage for a mouthwatering dish that’s low-carb, high-protein, and packed with bold spices. It’s the kind of recipe that turns simple ingredients into something truly unforgettable.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking dinner for the family, this one-pan dish is as comforting as it is convenient. Let’s dive into what makes this fried cabbage recipe a must-try.

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🥬 Ingredients & Their Purpose

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building layers of texture and flavor:

1. Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)

Used for sautéing and crisping up the sausage and cabbage.

Alternative: Use butter for a richer, creamier finish.

2. Smoked Sausage (12 oz, sliced)

Adds smoky, savory flavor and protein. Kielbasa or andouille sausage work perfectly.

When seared, it infuses the oil with deep flavor, setting the base for the dish.

3. Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined)

Brings a slightly sweet, briny taste that complements the cabbage beautifully.

Cooks quickly and elevates the dish with a touch of elegance.

4. Green Cabbage (1 small head, chopped)

The star of the show. When fried, cabbage becomes sweet and tender with just the right bite.

Absorbs the flavor of the sausage and shrimp for a deeply satisfying taste.

5. Garlic (3 cloves, minced)

Adds aromatic depth and boosts the umami flavor in every bite.

6. Paprika (1 teaspoon)

Provides a warm, smoky undertone. Use smoked paprika for extra richness.

7. Cayenne Pepper (½ teaspoon, optional)

Adds a spicy kick for those who like it hot. Easily adjustable to taste.

8. Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)

Essential for balancing and enhancing all other flavors.

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for about 5 minutes, flipping to brown both sides. Once golden and crisp, remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the sausage.

Step 3: Sauté the Cabbage

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the chopped cabbage and minced garlic. Season with paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Cook on medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10–12 minutes or until the cabbage is soft and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes if desired.

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💡 Why Everyone Loves This Recipe

One-pan meal: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

Balanced flavor profile: Smoky, savory, sweet, and spicy in one bite.

Customizable: Swap in turkey sausage or add bell peppers for more variety.

Meal-prep friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully.

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🔥 Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage

Use a large skillet or cast iron pan to prevent overcrowding and ensure even browning.

Don't overcook the shrimp – they only need a few minutes to turn pink and juicy.

For added flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or white wine before adding the cabbage.

Want it extra spicy? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This dish is filling on its own, but you can take it to the next level by serving it with:

Buttery cornbread or crusty French bread

Cauliflower rice or mashed potatoes

A side of sautéed green beans or roasted sweet potatoes

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette for balance

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📦 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until hot.

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✅ Final Thoughts – Why You Need to Make This Dish

Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage is more than just a quick dinner — it’s a flavor-packed, soul-satisfying meal that’s both simple and special. With its bold spices, savory sausage, sweet shrimp, and tender cabbage, this dish delivers comfort and nutrition without any fuss.

Whether you're short on time or just want something truly delicious and easy, this one-pan wonder is a guaranteed hit. Give it a try, and it might just become your new weeknight go-to.

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Love this recipe? Share it, save it, and let your friends know how good fried cabbage

 can be. 🌶️🥬🍤

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Optimized for: Fried cabbage and sausage recipe, shrimp and cabbage skillet, easy one-pan shrimp recipes, low-carb cabbage dinners.