If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with Southern charm and hearty flavors, this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen rotation. It’s a delightful harmony of tender cabbage, juicy shrimp, and smoky sausage all brought together with simple seasonings and a touch of paprika that gives it a beautiful color and a hint of warmth. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also packs a punch of comforting, savory goodness that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I’m excited to share all the little tips and tricks to help you make it perfect every time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in creating a dish that’s full of flavor, texture, and color. From the crunch of the cabbage to the savory sausage and tender shrimp, every component shines here.
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped: Provides a tender yet slightly crisp base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a sweet, succulent seafood touch that complements the earthiness of the cabbage.
- 1 pound of sausage, sliced: Use your favorite variety for a smoky, savory element that packs a punch.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth, perfectly balancing the spices and meatiness.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with an irresistible aromatic richness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Not just for color; it adds a subtle smoky warmth that elevates the entire dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and bring all the flavors together.
- Olive oil, for cooking: The cooking fat that lightly crisps and caramelizes ingredients for that perfect texture.
How to Make Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by warming a generous splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This step sets the stage for everything else, ensuring your sausage and vegetables sizzle up just right without sticking.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Add the sliced sausage to the hot skillet, letting it cook until nicely browned and thoroughly cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This browning adds a depth of flavor and some beautiful caramelized bits that infuse the entire dish.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step unlocks sweetness and aromatic richness, giving the recipe its soul.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Shrimp cooks fast, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking — you want it tender and juicy.
Step 5: Add Cabbage and Seasonings
Stir in the chopped cabbage along with the paprika, salt, and pepper. Be generous with those seasonings; they bring everything together and the paprika adds that gorgeous red hue and subtle smoky hint.
Step 6: Cook Until Tender
Continue cooking the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and becomes tender, about 7 to 10 minutes. The cabbage will soak up all those wonderful flavors, becoming melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is cooked and fragrant, serve your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe hot. This dish is at its best when enjoyed fresh off the stove, warm and cozy.
How to Serve Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or green onions sprinkled on top bring a bright pop of color and an herbaceous freshness that cuts through the richness. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also add a lovely zesty lift.
Side Dishes
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe pairs beautifully with classic Southern staples like buttery cornbread, creamy mashed potatoes, or simple steamed rice to soak up every tasty morsel. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad balances the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish wrapped in warm tortillas or as a hearty filling for stuffed bell peppers. It also works great as a topping for baked potatoes or alongside scrambled eggs for a satisfying brunch plate full of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your leftovers even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
While you can freeze leftovers, keep in mind that cabbage’s texture might become a bit softer after thawing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to ensure it heats evenly without drying out the shrimp or cabbage. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! The choice of sausage is flexible. Andouille, kielbasa, chorizo, or even smoked turkey sausage all work wonderfully and add unique flavors.
Is this recipe spicy?
It’s not inherently spicy unless you choose a spicy sausage or add extra heat. The paprika provides warmth but no real spice, so you can adjust according to your preference.
Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?
Yes, chicken or even firm tofu can be great alternatives if you prefer no seafood. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked through.
What if I want a vegetarian version?
Skip the shrimp and sausage, then add mushrooms, smoked paprika, and perhaps some smoked tempeh or chickpeas to build that hearty, savory depth.
How do I know when the cabbage is perfectly cooked?
You want the cabbage tender but not mushy. It should have lost its raw crunch but still hold a little bite after cooking for about 7 to 10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe is a beautiful blend of simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it one of my all-time go-to dishes. Whether you’re cooking for weeknight family dinners or casual get-togethers, give this recipe a try—you’ll be surprised just how quickly it becomes a favorite in your home too!
Print
Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage recipe is a flavorful and hearty dish combining tender cabbage, succulent shrimp, and savory sausage, all cooked together in a skillet with aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it balances protein and veggies for a satisfying and delicious experience.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
Proteins
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound of sausage, sliced (choose your favorite sausage)
Spices & Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other
- Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat to prepare for cooking the proteins and vegetables.
- Cook the sausage: Add the sausage slices to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes, releasing their flavorful oils.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add shrimp: Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, typically 3 to 4 minutes, ensuring they are fully cooked but tender.
- Incorporate cabbage and seasoning: Add the chopped cabbage along with paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices throughout the mixture.
- Cook until cabbage is tender: Continue cooking the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and becomes tender, which usually takes 7 to 10 minutes.
- Serve: Once the cabbage is tender and all ingredients are well combined, serve the dish hot and enjoy your flavorful meal.
Notes
- Choose your favorite type of sausage such as smoked sausage, kielbasa, or andouille for different flavor profiles.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the paprika.
- You can substitute olive oil with butter for a richer flavor.
- If you prefer less sodium, use a low-sodium sausage and adjust salt accordingly.
- Serve with rice or crusty bread to complete the meal.
