Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon

Looking for a one-pan wonder that’s packed with flavor and comes together in just 30 minutes? This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon is a savory, smoky, and hearty dish that brings together crisp cabbage, juicy shrimp, smoked sausage, and crispy bacon. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for any night of the week!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of Flavor: Bacon, sausage, and shrimp bring bold, smoky, and savory tastes to this dish, while cabbage adds a tender-crisp texture.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this is a great recipe for busy weeknights.
• Low-Carb Friendly: With simple ingredients and no heavy starches, it’s a great option for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.

Ingredients for Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon

• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped: The star veggie of the dish, cabbage soaks up all the delicious flavors.
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Tender and sweet, shrimp adds a seafood flair.
• 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced: Adds a smoky, savory depth. Use your favorite brand or even andouille for extra spice.
• 4 slices bacon, chopped: Crispy bacon bits that bring a salty, smoky kick to every bite.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor with a bit of aromatic richness.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps sauté the garlic and cabbage to golden perfection.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the bacon and sausage.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to balance and enhance the dish.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A touch of green for freshness and color.

How to Make Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook 4 slices of chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Add the sliced sausage to the same skillet with the bacon fat. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy around the edges. Remove the sausage and set it aside with the bacon.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add 2 tbsp of olive oil and the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Cabbage

With the skillet still over medium heat, add the chopped cabbage to the remaining oil and bacon fat. Season with 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still has a bit of crispness.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the bacon, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet with the cabbage. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and let the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Once heated through, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Success

• Shrimp Timing: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. It only needs a couple of minutes to turn pink and firm up.
• Use a Large Skillet: Cabbage takes up a lot of space before it cooks down, so make sure your skillet is large enough to handle all the ingredients.
• Customize the Heat: For a little extra spice, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.

Variations to Try

• Keto-Friendly: This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, but you can skip the sausage if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage and shrimp with more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for a plant-based take.
• Add Some Heat: For a spicier version, swap the smoked sausage for spicy andouille sausage or add some crushed red pepper flakes.

Storing and Reheating

• Storing: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Final Thoughts

This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon is a flavor-packed, low-carb meal that’s perfect for when you want something hearty but quick. The combination of smoky sausage, crispy bacon, and tender shrimp with sautéed cabbage is a total winner. It’s savory, satisfying, and sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings | Calories: ~350 kcal per serving