Name: Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds (andouille or kielbasa recommended); 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and sliced into thick shreds; 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; Chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – to balance richness with a tangy touch; Crushed red pepper flakes – for a spicier kick

Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is the kind of dish that satisfies on every level—bold, savory, and deeply comforting. This skillet meal brings together juicy, seared shrimp, smoky sausage, and tender caramelized cabbage, all tossed in simple yet powerful spices. It’s a one-pan wonder packed with flavor and texture, and it comes together surprisingly quickly.

Whether you’re looking for a low-carb dinner idea, a soul-warming comfort meal, or just something different for weeknight cooking, this dish delivers. The cabbage absorbs all the smoky richness from the sausage and the spiced shrimp, transforming into something utterly mouthwatering. Each bite balances crisp-tender greens with juicy meats—an irresistible combo that’s as rustic as it is satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe

Quick & Easy: It takes less than 30 minutes to make, all in one pan.
Full of Flavor: The smoky sausage and seasoned shrimp infuse the cabbage with layers of deliciousness.
Nutritious: High in protein, low in carbs, and packed with fiber.
Minimal Cleanup: One skillet means less time at the sink.
Versatile: Works for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Comfort Food with a Twist: It’s hearty without being heavy—perfect for any season.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters love it!
Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable, simple ingredients.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment + Their Importance)

To make Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage come out perfectly every time, a few key kitchen tools will streamline the process and ensure excellent results.

Large Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: This is essential for getting a deep sear on the sausage and shrimp, while also allowing the cabbage to caramelize beautifully without burning. Cast iron holds heat exceptionally well and distributes it evenly.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: For quickly slicing cabbage, sausage, and prepping your aromatics like garlic or onion. A dull knife can bruise vegetables and slow you down.
Cutting Board: Use a large, sturdy board to keep things clean and safe as you prep the ingredients.
Tongs or a Spatula: Great for flipping the shrimp and stirring the cabbage without crushing it. Tongs give you control and prevent overmixing.
Mixing Bowl: Handy for seasoning your shrimp ahead of time before they hit the skillet.
Paper Towels: Patting your shrimp dry before cooking helps them brown rather than steam.

Having the right tools isn’t about being fancy—it’s about efficiency and getting that perfect texture and flavor balance with minimal hassle.

Preparation Tips

Slice Ingredients Evenly: Uniform cuts mean even cooking. Slice cabbage into medium shreds—not too fine—to retain a bit of bite.
Season Shrimp Separately: Toss shrimp in olive oil, garlic, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne beforehand to let the flavors soak in before cooking.
Cook in Stages: Brown sausage first to render out fat. Remove it, then cook the shrimp. Sauté the cabbage last in the remaining drippings for a rich flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Crowding leads to steaming instead of browning.
Use Medium-High Heat: High enough to sear but not so high that you burn the bits. Adjust as needed when switching between proteins and veggies.
Finish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onion brightens up the dish right before serving.

Ingredients for This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe

Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful, one-pan meal. These ingredients are simple yet powerful when combined in the right order.

Protein & Veggies:

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large size work best)
1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds (andouille or kielbasa recommended)
1 medium head green cabbage, cored and sliced into thick shreds
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings:

1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fats & Garnish:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

Optional Additions:

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – to balance richness with a tangy touch
Crushed red pepper flakes – for a spicier kick

This combination of savory sausage, sweet cabbage, and plump shrimp creates an explosion of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. You probably have most of these in your kitchen already!

Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Sausage Recipe2

Step-by-Step Instructions for Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage

Let’s break down how to bring this flavorful dish together, step by step. Each stage builds depth and balance, so take your time and enjoy the process.

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside to marinate while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sear the Sausage

Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and the sliced sausage. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crisp on the edges. Remove sausage and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Place shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until just cooked through and slightly golden. Remove and set aside with the sausage. Avoid overcooking—the shrimp will finish in the final toss.

Step 4: Caramelize the Onion and Garlic

Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the pan, then sauté the sliced onion until soft and golden, about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage

Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender with golden edges. You want some caramelization for depth of flavor.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked sausage and shrimp to the pan with the cabbage. Toss everything together gently until well combined and heated through, about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar now, if using.

Step 7: Finish & Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley or green onion for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot right out of the skillet!

Notes

Type of Shrimp: Use fresh or thawed frozen shrimp. Tail-on shrimp look beautiful for presentation but can be removed for convenience.
Sausage Options: Andouille offers a bold, smoky spice, but kielbasa or any fully cooked smoked sausage works well too.
Low-Carb Friendly: This dish is naturally low in carbs and gluten-free—perfect for keto or paleo meal plans.
Customizable Heat: Like it mild? Skip the cayenne and red pepper. Want more kick? Add a dash of hot sauce at the end.
Balance the Flavors: A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end can brighten and balance the richness.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcrowding the Pan: Trying to cook everything at once can lead to steaming instead of proper browning. Cook proteins and veggies in batches if needed.
Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cook very fast. If they’re left too long in the pan or reheated excessively, they can turn rubbery.
Soggy Cabbage: Avoid covering the pan or adding too much liquid. Letting the cabbage sauté uncovered allows it to caramelize rather than steam.
Skipping the Deglaze: A quick splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end helps lift the fond (browned bits) from the skillet, adding tons of flavor.
Not Drying the Shrimp: Pat them dry before seasoning so they sear nicely instead of releasing excess moisture into the pan.
Using Too Much Butter/Oil: The sausage will render fat, so you only need a bit of additional fat to cook the rest. Too much can make the dish greasy.
Underseasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust your seasonings before serving. The cabbage especially needs enough salt to shine.

What to Serve With Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage?

This dish is hearty and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Whether you want something comforting, refreshing, or indulgent—there’s a match here for every craving.

8 Recommendations

Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes provide a rich and mellow counterpoint to the savory shrimp and sausage.
Buttered Cornbread or Skillet Cornbread
The sweetness of cornbread complements the smoky, spicy tones of the main dish.
Steamed Rice or Cajun Dirty Rice
Serve it over rice to soak up every flavorful drop—especially good for a more filling meal.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Their natural sweetness balances out the spice and gives an extra nutrient boost.
Crusty Bread or French Baguette
Perfect for mopping up all the savory juices left in the skillet.
Simple Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A fresh, zesty salad brings a refreshing crunch and keeps the meal light.
Sautéed Greens (Collard, Kale, or Spinach)
Earthy greens round out the Southern-style flavors and add more fiber.
Pickled Vegetables or Slaw
Tangy, crisp pickles or a vinegar-based slaw cut through the richness and offer contrast.

Whether you’re building a dinner plate or planning a family spread, these sides add flavor, texture, and balance to the bold centerpiece of fried cabbage with shrimp & sausage.

Storage Instructions

This dish is perfect for meal prep or leftovers. If you have any extra fried cabbage with shrimp & sausage, follow these storage tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled to room temperature before storing it to maintain its texture.
Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the components separately. Store the cooked sausage and shrimp in one container and the cabbage mixture in another. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat to prevent the cabbage from becoming soggy. Add a little extra butter or olive oil if necessary to keep everything moist.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 350–400 kcal
Protein: 28–30g
Carbohydrates: 12–15g
Fiber: 4–5g
Fat: 25–28g
Sodium: 900–1000mg

This dish is high in protein and healthy fats while keeping carbs relatively low, making it a great option for those watching their carb intake or following a low-carb diet.

Please note that these values can vary depending on the type of sausage used and any modifications made to the recipe. For a more accurate nutritional breakdown, it’s best to calculate based on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sausage is best for this recipe?

You can use any smoked sausage, but Andouille sausage is highly recommended for its smoky, spicy flavor. Kielbasa also works well if you prefer a milder taste. Ensure the sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the dish.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning. Excess moisture can prevent them from searing properly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook the entire dish, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Can I substitute the cabbage with another vegetable?

Yes! While cabbage is traditional, you can substitute it with brussels sprouts or bok choy if you prefer. These veggies will give a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the sausage and shrimp well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any wheat or gluten-based ingredients. Just ensure that your sausage is gluten-free if you’re strictly avoiding gluten.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! You can increase the cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference. A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a chopped fresh chili can also boost the spice level.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the mix. Keep in mind that these will change the flavor and texture slightly, but they add variety and nutrition.

How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Remove them from the heat right away to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.

Conclusion

This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage recipe is a true gem—it’s simple, flavorful, and versatile. Packed with hearty protein, smoky sausage, and tender cabbage, it makes for an easy yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping for the week ahead, or just craving something comforting, this dish is sure to deliver. With the right balance of flavors and textures, it’s no wonder this recipe is a favorite. Enjoy every savory bite!