There’s nothing like the aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with tender cabbage on a chilly evening. This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage will wrap you in its warmth, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights. It’s comforting, hearty, and definitely trending because who doesn’t love a one-pan meal that’s easy on the eyes and stomach?
Picture crispy cabbage tossed with plump shrimp and savory sausage, all cooked together in one skillet. It’s like your favorite Sunday family dinner, but ready in a flash! You’ll find it’s a fantastic way to use up those fridge staples while packing in flavor. Plus, it’s low-carb and keto-friendly, so it fits right into your health goals without sacrificing comfort.
Started whipping this up during the fall of 2020 while attending to my growing family and their ever-changing tastes. The first time I served it, my sister said, “It smells like home!” I learned that giving the cabbage a good caramelization brings out its sweetness, making it perfect alongside the savory notes of the sausage. After years of sharing recipes, this cozy dish has become a staple in my home, always bringing a bit of joy to the table.
Joe Rooney
Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage Ultimate Recipe
This fried cabbage with shrimp and sausage recipe is a flavorful and easy meal, bringing together savory chicken sausage, tender shrimp, and crisp cabbage in one pan. Perfect for those who love spicy fried cabbage with sausage shrimp combos or an easy southern fried cabbage shrimp dish. Enjoy a low carb fried cabbage shrimp delight that’s versatile and satisfying any day of the week.
1 small head Cabbage Chopped, provides a crunchy texture.
1/2 lb Shrimp Peeled and deveined, adds seafood flavor.
1/2 lb Chicken sausage Sliced, brings a savory, smoky taste.
2 cloves Garlic Minced, adds depth of flavor.
2 tablespoons Olive oil Used for sautéing, provides healthy fats.
1/2 teaspoon Smoked paprika Adds a warm, smoky flavor.
to taste Salt Enhances overall flavor.
to taste Pepper Enhances overall flavor.
for garnish Fresh parsley Optional, adds color and freshness.
Method
First, rough chop the cabbage into manageable pieces, prepare the shrimp by peeling and deveining, and cut the chicken sausage into slices.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the sausage slices. Cook until they develop a golden, crispy exterior, about 4-5 minutes, then remove and set aside.
Using the same pan, drizzle in olive oil and add minced garlic. Let it cook until it releases its aroma, roughly 1-2 minutes. Toss in the shrimp and sauté until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Set them aside with the sausage.
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then stir and cook for about 8-10 minutes until the cabbage softens but still holds some crunch.
Return the shrimp and sausage back into the pan with the cabbage. Mix gently and cook an additional 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.
Dish out the fried cabbage with shrimp and sausage while hot, garnishing with fresh parsley if you like.
Notes
This dish is quite adaptable; swap the chicken sausage for other types, or add different veggies to tailor it to your taste. Leftovers reheat well for a quick lunch or dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that you’ll want to make on repeat!
Simple & Quick: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Comforting Home-Style Meal: Combines savory sausage and tender shrimp for that cozy feeling we all love.
Versatile and Customizable: Easy to swap ingredients or add your favorite seasonings for a unique twist.
Low-Carb Delight: Fits perfectly into low-carb and keto diets without sacrificing taste.
Key Ingredients and Tools
Gather these simple ingredients to bring this comforting dish to life:
Ingredient
Role in the Dish
Cabbage
Provides a crunchy texture.
Shrimp
Adds delicious seafood flavor.
Chicken sausage
Brings a savory, smoky taste.
Garlic
Enhances overall flavor.
Olive oil
Used for sautéing, provides healthy fats.
Smoked paprika
Adds a warm, smoky flavor.
And don’t forget your trusty large skilletit’s the star of your kitchen for this fried cabbage shrimp sausage recipe!
How It Works Step-by-Step
Start by chopping the cabbage into small, bite-sized pieces, peeling and deveining the shrimp, and slicing the chicken sausage into rounds.
Heat your large skillet over medium heat and add the sliced chicken sausage. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until browned and crispy, then remove the sausage and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink.
Add the chopped cabbage into the skillet, sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and stir. Let cook for 8-10 minutes until the cabbage is tender yet slightly crispy.
Return the sausage and shrimp to the skillet, toss everything gently, and heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!
Troubleshooting Tips
Even the best cooks encounter hiccups now and then! Here are some tips to keep things on track:
If the cabbage seems soggy, try cooking it a bit longer to achieve that perfectly tender yet crispy texture.
For more flavor, experiment with adding a splash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice during cooking.
If you’re looking for a spicy kick, throw in some red pepper flakes with the garlic for an extra dose of heat!
Tweaks for Every Taste
This cajun fried cabbage with sausage dish is a blank canvas! Here are some fun ideas:
Swap
How It Changes the Dish
Shrimp for chicken
Gives a heartier texture, perfect for those who aren’t seafood fans.
Add bell peppers
Adds sweetness and color, elevating your dish visually and flavor-wise.
Use turkey sausage
Makes it lighter and even more health-conscious without losing taste.
Serving and Storing
This dish is as delightful to serve as it is to eat! Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers:
To serve, scoop on a plate and top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pairs wonderfully with crusty bread if you want to soak up the flavors!
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove to bring back its deliciousness.
For a quick meal later in the week, pack it into meal prep containers! This easy fried cabbage seafood is perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
Expert Says
Fried cabbage with shrimp and sausage is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate cruciferous vegetables into your diet. Cabbage is rich in antioxidants and vitamins K and C, which can boost immunity and support overall health. Sautéing it enhances its natural sweetness while retaining vital nutrients.
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The Journey to My Perfect Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage
It took a handful of attempts to get my Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage just right. From overcooking the shrimp to forgetting the seasoning, each misstep brought lessons that infused flavor and balance into the dish. Now, it’s a comforting family favorite that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
FAQs ( Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage )
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You will need cabbage, shrimp, sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), onion, garlic, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and Cajun spices. Optional additions include bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
How long does it take to make this dish?
This meal takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Preparation usually takes about 10 minutes, and cooking will take around 20 minutes, making it a quick option for busy weeknights.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You can partially prepare this meal by chopping the vegetables and cooking the sausage ahead of time. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days and reheat before serving.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes! The dish is low in carbohydrates and can fit well into low-carb or keto diets. Cabbage is a great vegetable choice for these meal plans, and shrimp adds a healthy protein source.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can include bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini for added nutrients and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if adding harder vegetables.
Feel free to spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or swap shrimp for chicken if that’s your jam! If you have leftovers, just pop them in the fridgereheating on the stove brings back all that deliciousness. It’s a little trick I picked up from my aunt’s kitchen!
I’d love to hear your memories or see your versions of this dish! Did you grow up enjoying something similar? Don’t forget to share this recipe with family or save it for a cozy night inyou’ll want to make it again and again!
