A savory, one-pan Southern-inspired dish loaded with tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and flavorful sautéed cabbage. This quick and hearty meal is full of bold spices and comforting textures, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan simplicity – Minimal cleanup and all-in-one flavor.
- Flavor-packed – Smoky, spicy, and full of Southern comfort.
- Quick to make – Ready in 30 minutes.
- Protein-rich – A filling meal with shrimp and sausage.
- Great for meal prep – Stays tasty for days in the fridge.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Directions
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the shrimp with a pinch of salt and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining olive oil to the pan, then sauté the onion and garlic for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped cabbage, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Sauté the cabbage for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and slightly caramelized.
- Stir in the cooked sausage and shrimp. Add butter if desired and cook for 2 more minutes to heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Variations
- Keto-Friendly: Skip the onion and use more garlic and cabbage.
- Spicier Version: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Vegetarian: Replace shrimp and sausage with mushrooms and beans.
- Different Proteins: Use chicken, turkey sausage, or tofu.
- Add Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, zucchini, or shredded carrots.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in single portions for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, just add them at the end to avoid overcooking.
What kind of sausage works best?
Smoked sausage or andouille works great for this recipe.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. It stores and reheats well for quick meals.
How do I keep shrimp from getting rubbery?
Avoid overcooking—shrimp only need 2-3 minutes.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the spice level.
Can I use red cabbage?
Yes, but it will change the color and slightly affect the taste.
Can I omit the butter?
Yes, it adds richness but is optional.
What size shrimp should I use?
Medium to large shrimp (31/40 count) work best.
What should I serve this with?
It’s a full meal on its own, but goes well with cornbread or rice.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure your sausage is certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Spicy Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is a flavorful, easy one-skillet meal that brings bold taste and hearty ingredients together. Whether for dinner or meal prep, it’s a quick Southern-inspired dish that satisfies every time.
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Spicy Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage
Description
A one-pan Southern dish with tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and sautéed cabbage—bold, hearty, and perfect for weeknights or meal prep!
