If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances smoky, savory, and fresh flavors all in one skillet, this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe is an absolute delight. With tender cabbage, succulent shrimp, and crispy smoked sausage coming together in a burst of flavor, this easy skillet meal is a fantastic weeknight winner. It’s quick to prepare, packed with texture and color, and guaranteed to satisfy anyone who loves a bit of southern comfort cooking with a seafood twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe a true crowd-pleaser. Each component brings its own character: the sausage adds smokiness, the shrimp infuses the dish with ocean-fresh sweetness, and the cabbage delivers a tender crunch and vibrant color.
- Smoked sausage: Choose your favorite sliced smoked sausage for a rich, smoky backbone to the dish.
- Raw shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp provide a juicy, sweet contrast to the smoky sausage.
- Cabbage: Chopped green cabbage adds bulk, crunch, and a slightly sweet earthiness.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté and bring all the flavors together without overpowering the ingredients.
- Garlic: Finely minced garlic adds depth and aroma as it sizzles in the pan.
- Smoked paprika: A pinch offers a warm, smoky spice that enhances the sausage and cabbage.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring balance and make every bite sing.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a burst of color and freshness at the end of cooking.
How to Make Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and add your sliced smoked sausage. Cook it for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally so each piece browns evenly and crisps up beautifully. Once golden and fragrant, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside. This step ensures the sausage has that perfect caramelized edge that adds incredible flavor later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Using the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with the minced garlic. Let the garlic sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes until you can smell that gorgeous aroma filling your kitchen. Then, toss in the shrimp and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Take care not to overcook, so they stay tender and juicy. Once done, remove the shrimp and set aside with the sausage.
Step 3: Cook the Cabbage
Next, add the remaining olive oil to the same skillet and add in your chopped cabbage. Sprinkle it with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to season every leaf. Cook the cabbage for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring now and then, until it softens but still keeps a bit of its crisp texture and vibrant green color. This balance is key for the perfect mouthfeel.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the sausage and shrimp to the skillet with the cabbage. Give everything a good toss so the flavors meld together. Let the mixture cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sausage crispiness and shrimp tenderness to infuse the cabbage. Just before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, bright finish.
How to Serve Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice to brighten this dish both in appearance and flavor, adding a lovely herbal note that balances the smoky richness. For an extra zing, you might also sprinkle a little freshly squeezed lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce to bring some brightness and heat.
Side Dishes
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe shines as a standalone meal but pairs beautifully with simple sides like fluffy white rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or warm crusty bread. These sides soak up every morsel of delicious juices and make for a hearty, comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this skillet creation in individual mini cast iron pans or over a bed of creamy grits for Southern flair. You can also turn it into a vibrant wrap filling by spooning it into warm tortillas and topping with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish stores well in an airtight container placed in the refrigerator. Leftovers remain delicious for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or easy dinners the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe, but keep in mind that cabbage may become softer after thawing. Place cooled leftovers in a sealed freezer-safe container and enjoy within 1 to 2 months for the best taste.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This helps maintain texture and flavor better than the microwave, which can sometimes make cabbage watery.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cabbage instead of pre-chopped?
Absolutely! Fresh cabbage works wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
What type of smoked sausage works best?
Any good-quality smoked sausage you enjoy can be used. Andouille, kielbasa, or even a smoky chicken sausage all bring delicious flavors, so pick whichever suits your palate best.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base recipe is mildly seasoned, but the smoked paprika offers a subtle smoky warmth. Feel free to add hot sauce or chili flakes if you prefer more heat in your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe.
Can I substitute shrimp for another protein?
Sure! This recipe is versatile. You could swap shrimp with chicken pieces, firm tofu, or even omit the protein for a vegetarian-friendly version focusing on the cabbage and spices.
How do I know when the shrimp is perfectly cooked?
Shrimp cooks quickly — it’s done when it turns pink and opaque. Overcooking makes shrimp rubbery, so watch carefully for these visual cues while sautéing.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe a try because it brings such a cozy, flavorful meal to your table without fuss. The way the sausage and shrimp complement the tender cabbage is so satisfying, and it’s quick enough for any busy night. Once you make it, I bet this recipe will become one of your go-to favorites for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Happy cooking!
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Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American Southern
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage recipe is a quick and flavorful skillet dish that combines savory smoked sausage, succulent shrimp, and tender cabbage seasoned with smoked paprika. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal ready in just 30 minutes, it balances protein and vegetables with a smoky, garlicky touch.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Cabbage: Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet, then add the chopped cabbage. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but retains a slight crispness.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the skillet with the cabbage. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use peeled and deveined shrimp for faster cooking and better texture.
- You can substitute smoked sausage with any smoked or spicy sausage of your choice.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and smoked paprika, to suit your preference.
- For a spicier kick, add red chili flakes when cooking the sausage or shrimp.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.
