Golden shrimp kissed by the skillet’s heat, smoky sausage slices with crisp edges, and tender, caramelized cabbage all meld together in this rustic Southern-inspired dish. Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage isn’t just comfort food—it’s a flavor-packed one-pan wonder that turns humble ingredients into something crave-worthy. The balance of textures and bold flavors makes it satisfying enough to be the main course, yet versatile enough to serve for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

This dish speaks the language of weeknight ease without compromising on taste. The cabbage softens and sweetens as it cooks, absorbing the smoky richness of the sausage and the briny freshness of the shrimp. Every bite delivers a satisfying contrast—juicy shrimp, hearty sausage, and silky cabbage laced with garlic, pepper, and a touch of spice. It’s a simple skillet meal with soul.

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

Quick & One-Pan: All done in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Bold Flavors: A balance of sweet cabbage, smoky sausage, and juicy shrimp.
Low-Carb Friendly: Naturally low in carbs, keto-friendly, and gluten-free.
Budget Conscious: Uses pantry staples and affordable proteins.
Customizable: Adjust the spice, swap in turkey sausage, or add bell peppers.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the familiar sausage, and shrimp adds a fun twist.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

Before diving into the sizzling skillet, a quick prep session can make this recipe effortless. The beauty of Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is that it doesn’t require fancy equipment—just a few reliable kitchen tools to make everything come together smoothly:

Large Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: The star of the show. This holds heat evenly, giving the sausage its golden crust and allowing the cabbage to caramelize beautifully.
Chef’s Knife: For slicing cabbage, sausage, and onions with precision.
Cutting Board: One for vegetables and one for meats, to prevent cross-contamination.
Tongs or Spatula: Perfect for flipping shrimp gently and stirring the cabbage without breaking it apart.
Mixing Bowl: Optional, but useful for seasoning the shrimp before cooking.
Paper Towels: For patting the shrimp dry—crucial for that beautiful sear.

Having these tools ready before you heat the pan will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Preparation Tips

Dry the Shrimp Well: Moisture is the enemy of searing. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking.
Slice Sausage Diagonally: It increases surface area, giving you more crispy edges.
Prep Vegetables in Advance: Have your cabbage sliced and onions chopped before you start. This recipe moves fast once the heat is on.
Cook in Stages: Sear the sausage first, set aside, then cook shrimp. Finally, sauté cabbage in the flavorful drippings—this layering builds flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each ingredient room to brown, not steam.

With a bit of prep and these strategies, you’re setting yourself up for a flawless skillet dinner.

Ingredients for This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting, flavor-packed skillet meal. The ingredients are simple and affordable, yet the final dish tastes anything but basic.

Proteins:

1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined; medium or large size preferred)
12 oz smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa, sliced)

Vegetables:

1 small head green cabbage (cored and thinly sliced)
1 medium yellow onion (sliced thin)
2–3 cloves garlic (minced)

Fats & Oils:

2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for a richer flavor)

Seasonings:

Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional, for extra kick)

Garnish (optional):

Fresh parsley (chopped)
Squeeze of lemon (for brightness)

These everyday pantry staples come together to create a dish that’s savory, spiced just right, and deeply satisfying.

Step 1: Prep All Ingredients

Start by slicing the cabbage thinly and set it aside in a large bowl.
Cut the sausage diagonally into ½-inch slices.
Peel and devein the shrimp, then pat them dry with paper towels.
Thinly slice the onion and mince the garlic.
If using parsley for garnish, chop it now.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Add the sausage slices in a single layer and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and slightly crispy.
Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat behind.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add the shrimp in a single layer.
Sear for about 1–2 minutes per side until opaque and slightly golden.
Avoid overcrowding—cook in batches if needed.
Remove shrimp and set aside with the sausage.

Step 4: Sauté the Onion and Cabbage

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
Toss in the sliced onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add the cabbage and stir well, cooking for 8–10 minutes until tender and slightly browned.
Stir in the garlic during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the sausage and shrimp to the skillet with the cabbage.
Sprinkle in smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and Cajun seasoning.
Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a light squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Serve immediately while hot and flavorful.

Notes

Type of Sausage: Smoked sausage adds bold flavor, but feel free to use turkey sausage or even chorizo for a different twist.
Cabbage Texture: Cook it down until just tender. Overcooking can make it mushy and lose its natural sweetness.
Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes and Cajun seasoning according to your heat preference.
Make it a Meal: This dish is hearty on its own, but it can also be served over rice or cauliflower rice for extra volume.
Shrimp Size: Medium or large shrimp work best—they cook quickly and stay juicy.
Oil Choice: Olive oil gives a rounded flavor, but avocado oil or bacon grease also work beautifully in this recipe.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp turn rubbery when cooked too long. As soon as they’re opaque and pink, pull them out of the pan.
Crowding the Pan: This causes steaming instead of searing. Work in batches if your skillet is small.
Undercooked Cabbage: Raw cabbage can be tough and bitter. Let it cook down until lightly browned and softened.
Skipping the Pat Dry Step: Wet shrimp won’t sear—they’ll steam. Always dry them well with paper towels.
Too Much Salt Too Early: Sausage is already salty. Season in stages and taste before adding more salt.
Using Low Heat: High heat is key for caramelizing and building flavor. Don’t be afraid to turn up the flame (just monitor closely).
Stirring Too Often: Give ingredients time to brown. Stirring constantly can stop them from developing that nice sear.
Ignoring the Fond: All the browned bits at the bottom of the pan? Don’t discard them—stir them into the cabbage for rich, deep flavor.

What to Serve With Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage?

This dish is satisfying on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides if you’re looking to round out your meal. Whether you want something starchy, fresh, or comforting, there’s a perfect match waiting.

8 Recommendations

1. Cornbread

A classic Southern pairing. Slightly sweet, buttery cornbread helps soak up all the savory juices.

2. Steamed White or Brown Rice

Simple, neutral, and perfect for catching any leftover flavors from the skillet.

3. Cauliflower Rice

A low-carb, keto-friendly option that keeps the meal light while still filling.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and rich potatoes make a hearty companion to the smoky sausage and tender shrimp.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the spice and smoke in the main dish.

6. Garden Salad with Vinaigrette

Add something crisp and tangy to balance the warm, savory flavors of the cabbage and meats.

7. Buttered Noodles

A simple side that keeps the spotlight on the main dish while adding texture.

8. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Fresh and slightly charred corn brings a bit of sweetness and smoky harmony to the table.

Whether you’re going for comfort or balance, any of these options will elevate your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage into a full and satisfying meal.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage is key to preserving the flavor and texture of your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage leftovers. Here’s how to do it right:

Refrigerator: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: While sausage and cabbage freeze well, shrimp can become rubbery when reheated. If freezing, remove the shrimp before storing, then cook fresh shrimp when reheating the rest. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.

Avoid freezing the entire dish with shrimp unless absolutely necessary. This helps maintain quality and texture.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

Note: Values are approximate and will vary based on exact brands and portion sizes used.

Calories: ~365 kcal
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 170mg
Sodium: 980mg

This dish is high in protein, low in carbs, and naturally gluten-free—ideal for those on keto or low-carb diets. You can further adjust the fat content by using turkey sausage and less oil if preferred.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but they should be added at the very end to avoid overcooking. Simply warm them through after the cabbage is finished.

2. Is this recipe spicy?

It can be! The base recipe has mild heat, but red pepper flakes and Cajun seasoning can be adjusted to your spice preference—or left out entirely for a milder dish.

3. Can I substitute purple cabbage?

Absolutely. Purple (red) cabbage works well and adds a vibrant color contrast, though it has a slightly stronger flavor than green cabbage.

4. What kind of sausage is best?

Smoked sausage like andouille or kielbasa gives the best flavor. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner version.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes. You can prep and cook the dish a day ahead. Reheat gently in a skillet to restore the original flavor and texture.

6. Is it suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, this recipe is low in carbs and high in protein and fat, making it ideal for a keto or low-carb diet.

7. What can I use instead of shrimp?

You can skip the shrimp and double the sausage. Or replace it with diced chicken or tofu for a different twist.

8. How do I keep the cabbage from getting soggy?

Don’t overcrowd the pan and cook the cabbage over medium-high heat. This helps it caramelize rather than steam.

Conclusion

Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is the ultimate skillet meal—quick, flavorful, and deeply comforting. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed dinner or a low-carb solution that doesn’t compromise on taste, this dish delivers every time. With bold seasoning, simple ingredients, and tons of flexibility, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. Try it once, and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for both weeknight meals and special weekend cooking.