By Chef Clara
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 this one earns a spot
- 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.
What you need
- 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.
How much it makes
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Mix it up
- 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.
Will it keep?
- 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
How long does Spicy Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days per USDA food safety guidelines. This dish also freezes well for 2-3 months per USDA guidelines. For reheating, simply warm through in a skillet or microwave until hot.
Can I substitute butter in this recipe?
I’ve found that butter adds a lovely richness, but it’s completely optional. You can simply omit it, or for a touch more moisture, add a tablespoon of chicken or vegetable broth. This will keep the dish savory without the added fat.
What internal temperature should chicken reach?
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F measured with a meat thermometer, per USDA FSIS guidelines. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes; this helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful result.
What goes well with Spicy Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage?
In my experience, this Southern-inspired dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Consider serving it with fluffy white rice to soak up the flavors, a slice of warm cornbread, or a fresh green salad for a lighter contrast. Lemon wedges are also a must!
Is Spicy Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage gluten-free?
This recipe can be gluten-free, but some brands of smoked sausage contain gluten. Always check the label for gluten-free certification. For a guaranteed gluten-free option, choose a certified gluten-free smoked sausage or a plant-based alternative.
Worth knowing
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
- Total Time: PT30M
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A savory, one-pan Southern-inspired dish loaded with tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and flavorful sautéed cabbage, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Freeze in single portions for up to 1 month (or 2-3 months per USDA guidelines). Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
- Prep Time: PT10M
- Cook Time: PT20M
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
