Southern-Style Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon – A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite!Â
Introduction
Craving a hearty, comforting, and flavor-packed meal that hits all the right notes? This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage, and Bacon is a Southern-inspired dish that brings together bold spices, juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and crispy bacon—all tossed with tender cabbage for a satisfying, one-pan wonder.
This dish is more than just delicious—it’s a celebration of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it as a soul food-inspired weekend meal, it’s guaranteed to impress your taste buds and leave your kitchen smelling amazing.
Ingredients
To create this unforgettable meal, you’ll need the following:
- 5 slices of bacon, chopped into small pieces
- ½ cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cups green cabbage, cut into thin strips
- 10–12 large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
- 1 smoked sausage link (or kielbasa), sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning (Old Bay works perfectly)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Everything First
Before you begin cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready. Chop the bacon, slice the sausage, clean and devein the shrimp, shred the cabbage, and dice the onions. Having everything in place will make the cooking process much smoother.
2. Crisp the Bacon
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes golden and crispy. This will take about 5–7 minutes.
Pro tip: Do not discard the bacon grease—you’ll use it to build layers of flavor in the dish.
3. Brown the Sausage
Remove the crispy bacon and set it aside on a paper towel. In the same pan with the bacon fat, add the sausage slices. Let them sear for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This step gives the sausage a smoky, caramelized flavor.
4. Sauté the Onions
Once the sausage is browned, add the chopped onions into the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent and slightly caramelized. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
5. Add the Cabbage
Next, add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil to help with sautéing. Stir well to coat the cabbage in all those delicious juices and flavors.
The cabbage will look like a lot at first, but it will shrink significantly as it cooks. Cook uncovered for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage becomes tender but not mushy.
6. Season It Right
Sprinkle in the seafood seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly so every bite of cabbage is well seasoned.
The combination of spices adds a warm, slightly spicy and smoky flavor that complements the shrimp and sausage perfectly.
7. Add the Shrimp
Finally, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them—they cook fast!
Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir everything together until well combined.
How to Serve
Serve hot, straight from the skillet. This dish is perfect on its own, but it also pairs well with:
- White rice or buttered noodles
- Cornbread or biscuits
- Mashed potatoes
- A side of hot sauce for a spicy kick
This is comfort food done right—hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the cabbage moist.
- Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may overcook the shrimp.
Health & Nutrition Benefits
This dish is rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Cabbage provides vitamin C, K, and antioxidants. Shrimp is low in calories but high in lean protein and omega-3s. While bacon and sausage add richness and flavor, they also contribute saturated fats—so enjoy in moderation.
Tips & Variations
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Go low-carb: Skip the rice or bread and eat it as-is.
- Use turkey sausage or turkey bacon for a lighter version.
- Add bell peppers or carrots for extra veggies and color.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
Can I skip the bacon?
You can, but you’ll miss that smoky depth. If needed, replace with a bit more olive oil and smoked paprika.
Is this meal freezer-friendly?
Not really. Cabbage and shrimp don’t freeze well together, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Southern-style Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage, and Bacon is a one-pan miracle—easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a recipe that brings comfort, joy, and a whole lot of flavor to the table.Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies