Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage
Fried cabbage is a comforting, rustic dish with deep Southern roots, and when you add shrimp and sausage to the mix, it becomes a hearty, flavorful meal that hits every note—smoky, savory, and slightly sweet with a hint of spice.
This one-pan dish brings together tender cabbage, succulent shrimp, and smoky sausage for a quick and satisfying dinner. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet full of flavor thanks to the combination of garlic, olive oil, and the natural juices released from the sausage and shrimp.
Whether served alone or with a side of rice or cornbread, this is one of those meals that feels home-cooked, nourishing, and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced into coins
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Paprika or Cajun seasoning (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Rinse and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, discarding the tough core. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy on the edges, about 4–5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once cooked, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside, leaving the flavorful oil in the pan.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same pan, add the shrimp. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the sausage.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic and Cabbage
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped cabbage and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes or paprika. Stir to coat the cabbage in the oil and spices.
Cook the cabbage for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and slightly golden. You can cook it longer for a softer texture or keep it a bit crisp if you prefer.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the pan with the cabbage. Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes to reheat and combine the flavors.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, straight from the pan.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is satisfying on its own but can also be paired with a variety of sides:
- Steamed white rice or brown rice
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Cornbread or garlic toast
- A simple side salad with vinaigrette
For an extra Southern touch, serve it alongside collard greens or black-eyed peas.
Tips for Best Results
- Use andouille or kielbasa sausage for a spicier, smokier flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp. Add them at the end and cook just until pink.
- If you like more spice, stir in a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
- For deeper flavor, add a splash of chicken broth or a knob of butter while the cabbage cooks.
Variations
Add bell peppers
Sauté sliced bell peppers with the sausage for extra color and sweetness.
Use bacon instead of sausage
Fry chopped bacon and use the rendered fat to cook the cabbage for extra richness.
Make it vegetarian
Skip the shrimp and sausage and add mushrooms or chickpeas instead.
Include onions
Sauté thinly sliced onions with the garlic for more flavor depth.
Leftovers and Storage
This dish stores well and makes great leftovers. Allow to cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Not ideal for freezing due to the cabbage’s texture, but it can be done if needed.
A One-Pan Wonder
Fried cabbage with shrimp and sausage is a perfect example of a humble dish made exciting with just a few flavorful ingredients. It’s balanced, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. From quick weeknight dinners to meal prep for busy days, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.
Let the cabbage caramelize slightly, season generously, and enjoy a dish that proves simple cooking doesn’t mean boring. This is comfort food at its easiest and most delicious.