Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage

A Southern-style, sizzling skillet meal full of bold flavor and comfort

Introduction

Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage is a sizzling, savory dish that brings together the richness of smoked sausage, the tender bite of shrimp, and the hearty comfort of fried cabbage. This meal is deeply satisfying, quick to make, and packs a punch of smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or craving Southern soul food, this one-pan dish delivers flavor, texture, and comfort.

History

Fried cabbage is a staple in Southern American cooking, especially in communities with roots in soul food traditions. Cabbage is a humble, affordable vegetable that has long been used in home kitchens across the South — fried, stewed, boiled, or baked. Adding sausage came later, as smoked meats became widely used for their rich, salty flavor and shelf stability.

The addition of shrimp to fried cabbage with sausage is a modern twist — likely inspired by the seafood-rich traditions of Louisiana Creole and Cajun cuisines, where shrimp and smoked meats are frequently paired. This fusion creates a deliciously balanced dish that’s both rustic and refined.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

Main Ingredients:

1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6–7 cups)
1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage (andouille, kielbasa, or beef sausage), sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or Creole seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare ingredients

Slice cabbage, onion, and sausage.
Peel and devein shrimp if not prepped. Pat shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2 – Sauté the sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3 – Cook the shrimp

In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with sausage.

Step 4 – Sauté the vegetables

Add remaining oil to skillet. Add onions and garlic, sauté for 2 minutes.
Add cabbage and season with paprika, cayenne, and Old Bay. Stir well.
Cook cabbage for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until wilted and tender but not mushy. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5 – Combine everything

Return shrimp and sausage to the skillet.
Toss to combine and heat through, about 2 more minutes.
Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a few dashes of hot sauce.

Step 6 – Serve hot

Serve as-is or with rice, cornbread, or mashed potatoes.

Cooking Methods (Variations)

One-pot meal: Cook everything in one deep skillet or Dutch oven for easy cleanup.
Spicier version: Add sliced jalapeños or more cayenne.
Low-carb version: Serve without rice or bread.
Sheet pan style: Roast cabbage, sausage, and shrimp together in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes.
Slow cooker: Combine sausage and cabbage in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours. Add shrimp in the last 30 minutes.

Health & Nutritional Benefits

Cabbage is low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in Vitamin C and K.
Shrimp provides lean protein and essential minerals like selenium and iodine.
Smoked sausage adds protein and flavor, and using turkey or chicken sausage reduces fat content.
Garlic and onions are natural anti-inflammatory foods.
One-pan meal: Balanced, filling, and easy to digest.

Flavor Formation

Searing sausage caramelizes the outer layer, giving deep, smoky flavor.
Shrimp, when quickly cooked, adds a sweet and briny contrast.
Cabbage absorbs the smoky oils and spices, becoming tender and flavorful.
Seasonings like paprika, cayenne, and garlic build layers of spice, warmth, and depth.
A touch of lemon or vinegar at the end brightens the dish and balances the richness.

Who Loves This Dish

Southerners and soul food lovers who grew up with fried cabbage.
Seafood fans who enjoy shrimp in hearty meals.
Busy home cooks who want a one-pan, 30-minute dinner.
Keto and low-carb eaters looking for flavorful, grain-free meals.
Families who want an easy weeknight meal that satisfies.
Meal preppers who want something that reheats beautifully.

Conclusion

Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage is the ultimate skillet comfort food — smoky, savory, spicy, and full of flavor. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any night of the week. This dish brings together the best of Southern tradition and coastal flair, making it a standout meal that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, guests, or just yourself, this dish satisfies every time.