If you’re in the mood for a quick, flavorful, and low-carb dish that combines savory shrimp, smoky sausage, and crisp cabbage, look no further than Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal ingredients while still packing a punch in flavor. The cabbage is perfectly fried until tender, absorbing all the delicious savory flavors from the shrimp and sausage, while the smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness that brings everything together. It’s a dish that works as a main course or as a hearty side.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage will quickly become a favorite. Whether you’re trying to stick to a low-carb diet or simply want a meal that’s packed with flavor, this recipe will not disappoint.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage so special is its balance of textures and flavors. The cabbage becomes tender and slightly caramelized when fried, and it absorbs the rich, savory flavors from the shrimp and sausage. The shrimp adds a delicate sweetness and lightness, while the sausage brings a smoky, hearty contrast. The garlic and smoked paprika elevate the dish, giving it depth and warmth, while the olive oil adds richness and helps everything cook to perfection.
The best part? This dish is incredibly versatile and can be customized to fit your taste. You can add more vegetables, switch up the seasoning, or even add a splash of vinegar for a tangy kick. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or just looking for a tasty, nutritious meal, this recipe hits all the right notes.
What You’ll Need For This Recipe
This dish comes together with simple ingredients that you can find at most grocery stores. Here’s what you’ll need:
1 small head of cabbage, chopped – Cabbage is the star of the dish. It becomes tender when cooked and absorbs all the wonderful flavors of the shrimp and sausage.
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – Shrimp adds sweetness and lightness to the dish, making it more filling without being overly heavy.
1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced – Smoked sausage brings a deep, savory flavor with a hint of smokiness that complements the cabbage beautifully.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic adds a punch of flavor, infusing the oil and bringing the whole dish together.
2 tbsp olive oil – Olive oil helps to cook and brown the ingredients while adding richness and depth.
1/2 tsp smoked paprika – Smoked paprika adds a warm, slightly smoky flavor that enhances the dish’s overall taste.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Season with salt and pepper to balance the flavors and bring out the best in each ingredient.
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional) – Fresh parsley provides a pop of color and a hint of freshness that pairs well with the rich, savory dish.
How to Make This Recipe
Making Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is a quick and easy process. Here’s how to prepare it:
Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Peel and devein the shrimp, if necessary, and slice the smoked sausage into rounds. Mince the garlic and set all the ingredients aside.
Cook the Sausage: Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
Cook the Shrimp: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside with the sausage.
Fry the Cabbage: In the same skillet, add the chopped cabbage. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to soften and caramelize. If you want your cabbage a bit more tender, you can add a splash of water and cover the pan to steam it slightly.
Add Garlic and Seasonings: Once the cabbage has softened, add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the cabbage is fully tender.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked sausage and shrimp back into the skillet with the cabbage. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the pan from the heat. Transfer the dish to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success
For the best results, here are a few tips to make your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage even better:
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the sausage and shrimp, avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures even cooking and allows the ingredients to brown properly, which enhances their flavor.
Adjust the Smokiness: If you love smoky flavors, you can add extra smoked paprika or even a pinch of liquid smoke to intensify the dish’s smokiness.
Add Heat: For those who love a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dish. It pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors.
Make it a One-Pan Meal: If you want to make cleanup even easier, use a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to cook everything in one pan.
Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will always give you a better texture and flavor than frozen shrimp. However, if frozen shrimp is all you have, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is great on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides:
Serve with Rice: A bed of fluffy white or brown rice makes an excellent base for this dish, allowing the cabbage, shrimp, and sausage to shine.
Pair with Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve the dish with cauliflower rice, which will soak up the flavors while keeping the dish light and keto-friendly.
Enjoy with Cornbread: If you’re craving something a little heartier, serve the dish alongside cornbread for a comforting, soul-food-inspired meal.
Top with Fried Eggs: For an extra protein boost, top the dish with a fried egg or two. The runny yolk adds a rich and creamy texture that complements the savory flavors.
Timing Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Conclusion
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage recipe is the perfect combination of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, all brought together in a simple yet delicious dish. The cabbage becomes tender and absorbs the rich tastes of the shrimp and sausage, while the garlic and smoked paprika create a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special meal any time. Try it out, and enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that everyone will love!