When it comes to quick, satisfying meals, this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage checks all the boxes. It’s packed with bold flavors, comes together in under 30 minutes, and only requires one pan—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t want to deal with a sink full of dishes.
If you’ve never had fried cabbage before, get ready to be surprised. When cooked right, cabbage turns beautifully tender with just the right amount of caramelization, creating a subtly sweet and savory base for the smoky sausage and juicy shrimp. Add in a few simple spices, and you’ve got a meal that tastes like it took way more effort than it actually did.
So, whether you’re looking for a low-carb dinner option or just need a new way to use up that half-head of cabbage sitting in your fridge, this dish is about to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – This meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder – Fewer dishes to wash = more time to relax.
- Bold Flavors – Smoky sausage, sweet caramelized cabbage, and juicy shrimp create a perfect balance.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap the protein, or add extra veggies to make it your own.
Now, let’s get into the details and start cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful skillet meal:
- ½ lb shrimp – Peeled and deveined. Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely if frozen.
- ½ lb smoked sausage or andouille sausage – Andouille gives a spicier kick, while smoked sausage keeps it mild.
- ½ head of green cabbage – Roughly chopped. It will shrink down as it cooks.
- 1 medium onion – Diced for added depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic – Minced for that irresistible aroma.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps the sausage crisp up.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives the dish a deep, smoky warmth.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the garlic flavor without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who love a little heat.
- Salt and black pepper – To taste.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley – A fresh pop of color and flavor for garnish.
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to get it nicely browned and crispy on the edges, which brings out its smoky, savory flavor.
Once the sausage is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. We’ll add it back in later.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Toss in the shrimp and season them with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them—shrimp cook quickly and can turn rubbery if left on the heat too long.
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside with the sausage.
Bringing It All Together: Caramelized Cabbage and Bold Flavors
Now that we’ve got the shrimp perfectly seared and the sausage crisped up, it’s time to turn our attention to the real star of the dish—the cabbage. If you’ve never cooked cabbage like this before, you’re in for a treat. When sautéed just right, it softens beautifully while developing a slightly caramelized, almost buttery flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently. Let them cook for about 2 minutes until the onion turns soft and translucent, and the garlic releases its irresistible aroma.
At this point, your kitchen is going to smell absolutely incredible. The combination of butter, garlic, and onion cooking together is enough to make anyone hungry.
Step 4: Cook the Cabbage
Next, add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir everything together so the cabbage gets coated in the buttery, garlicky goodness. Now, sprinkle in:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – This deepens the flavor and gives the dish a subtle smokiness.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – If you like a little heat, this is the perfect way to add it.
- A pinch of salt and black pepper – Always season as you go to build layers of flavor.
Let the cabbage cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice it start to soften and slightly brown in some spots—this is exactly what we want. Those little golden bits add so much flavor to the final dish. If you prefer your cabbage extra tender, you can let it cook for a couple of minutes longer.
Step 5: Bring Everything Together
Now, it’s time to add back the cooked sausage and shrimp. Toss everything together in the skillet and let it cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, just until everything is heated through. Take a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a little more salt, a touch more black pepper, or even another pinch of smoked paprika.
Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
- Use a large skillet – Cabbage shrinks down as it cooks, but starting with a large pan helps ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – Shrimp can go from juicy to rubbery in a matter of seconds, so keep an eye on them.
- Let the cabbage caramelize – Stir occasionally, but don’t overdo it. Letting the cabbage sit for a minute or two at a time will help it develop a nice golden color.
- Customize the spice level – Love spice? Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce at the end. Prefer it milder? Stick with smoked sausage instead of andouille.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
Before you dig in, let’s go over some common questions about this dish. Whether it’s your first time making fried cabbage or you’re looking for ways to switch things up, these tips will help you get the best results every time.
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! If you prefer something milder, smoked sausage or kielbasa are great options. For a spicier kick, andouille sausage is perfect. You could even use turkey sausage for a leaner option.
2. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.
3. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! While it’s best served fresh, you can cook the sausage and cabbage ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to eat, quickly sauté the shrimp and combine everything in the skillet to reheat.
4. Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini would be great additions. Just sauté them along with the onions to ensure they soften properly.
5. Is This Dish Spicy?
It can be, depending on the sausage and the amount of red pepper flakes you use. If you prefer a mild version, skip the red pepper flakes and use a milder sausage.
6. What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This meal is filling on its own, but if you want to stretch it further, try serving it with:
- Steamed rice – White, brown, or even cauliflower rice.
- Mashed potatoes – For a hearty, comforting side.
- Cornbread – A slightly sweet contrast to the smoky flavors.
7. Can I Use Red Cabbage Instead of Green?
Yes, but keep in mind that red cabbage is a bit firmer and takes slightly longer to cook. It will also give the dish a different color, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Make This Recipe Tonight
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly satisfying. The smoky sausage, tender shrimp, and caramelized cabbage make for a bold, flavor-packed meal that feels both hearty and light at the same time.
Plus, it’s quick, easy, and all made in one pan, which means minimal cleanup—always a win on busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb dinner option or just need something new to add to your rotation, this dish is one you’ll want to make again and again.
Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! Did you make any variations? Add extra spice? Serve it with a favorite side dish? Drop a comment and share your thoughts—I’d love to hear from you!
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Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
Description
This quick and flavorful dish combines tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and caramelized cabbage for a satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and packed with bold flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ lb smoked sausage or andouille sausage, sliced
- ½ head of green cabbage, roughly chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the sausage.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Stir in the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped cabbage, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet with the cabbage. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to heat through. Adjust seasoning as needed and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Andouille sausage adds a spicy kick, but you can use smoked sausage for a milder flavor.
- Serve as is or pair with rice for a heartier meal.
