Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Wonder 🥬🍤🥓
If you’re looking for a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon is the answer. This Southern-inspired recipe combines tender cabbage, succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, and crispy bacon into a one-pan meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making this dish, explore variations to suit your taste, and share tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time. Let’s get cooking!
What Makes This Dish Special?
Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon is a celebration of bold flavors and textures. The cabbage becomes tender and slightly caramelized, while the shrimp adds a touch of sweetness and the sausage and bacon bring smoky, savory notes. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side, and it’s packed with protein and veggies for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:
Main Ingredients:
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
Cabbage is the star of the dish, providing a mild, slightly sweet base that soaks up all the flavors.
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Use fresh or frozen shrimp (thawed if frozen). Medium or large shrimp work best.
1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
Smoked sausage adds a rich, smoky flavor. Andouille sausage is a classic choice, but any smoked sausage will work.
4 slices bacon, chopped
Bacon adds a crispy, salty element that ties the dish together.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
1 medium onion, diced
Onion provides a savory base for the dish.
3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic adds a pungent, aromatic flavor.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Smoked paprika enhances the smoky notes from the sausage and bacon.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper. Adjust to your spice tolerance.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Thyme adds an earthy, herbal note.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Black pepper adds a subtle kick.
Salt to taste
Season to taste, but be cautious with salt since the bacon and sausage are already salty.
Liquid Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Olive oil or butter helps sauté the vegetables and prevents sticking.
1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Broth adds moisture and helps deglaze the pan.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
Apple cider vinegar adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
Lemon wedges
Lemon wedges are perfect for squeezing over the dish before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
Peel and devein the shrimp (if not already done).
Slice the smoked sausage into rounds.
Chop the bacon into small pieces.
Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage
Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage and set aside with the bacon.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Cook the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and toss to coat it in the bacon grease and aromatics. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften.
Step 6: Add Seasonings and Liquid
Sprinkle the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), dried thyme, and black pepper over the cabbage. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and apple cider vinegar (if using). Stir to combine.
Step 7: Add the Shrimp
Push the cabbage to one side of the skillet and add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Step 8: Combine Everything
Return the cooked bacon and sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Variations to Try
Spicy Cajun Fried Cabbage
Add 1-2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Fried Cabbage
Skip the shrimp, sausage, and bacon, and add extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini.
Creamy Fried Cabbage
Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy version.
Fried Cabbage with Chicken
Replace the shrimp with diced chicken breast or thighs.
Fried Cabbage with Rice
Serve the dish over cooked rice for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Fried Cabbage
Use a Large Skillet
A large skillet or Dutch oven ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
Adjust the Seasonings
Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences.
Make It Ahead
This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.
Serve with Crusty Bread
Crusty bread is great for soaking up the flavorful juices.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and packed with protein and veggies. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. The combination of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.