Hello, food lovers! Today, we're diving into a dish that's bursting with flavor and incredibly satisfying: Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon. This recipe is a true marvel – it’s a complete meal cooked in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze and dinner a delight. If you’re craving something hearty, savory, and quick to prepare, you’ve found your next favorite!
Imagine tender, sweet cabbage sautéed to perfection, mingling with crispy bacon, flavorful smoked sausage, and juicy, plump shrimp. Each bite offers a symphony of textures and tastes, from the smoky notes of the bacon to the subtle spice of the sausage and the fresh sweetness of the shrimp. It's comfort food at its finest, but with a vibrant twist that keeps it exciting.
Why You'll Adore This One-Pan Wonder
This dish isn't just delicious; it’s incredibly practical for busy weeknights or when you simply want a fuss-free meal. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Effortless Preparation: Everything comes together in one skillet, minimizing dishes and maximizing your enjoyment.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of three distinct proteins—bacon, sausage, and shrimp—creates a rich and complex flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- Quick to Cook: From start to finish, you can have this meal on the table in under 40 minutes, perfect for those hectic days.
- Nutritious & Filling: Cabbage offers a healthy base, while the proteins make it a substantial and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is designed for success. It's a fantastic way to introduce more vegetables into your diet while still indulging in rich, comforting flavors. If you love one-pan meals, you might also enjoy our Amazing One-Pan Sausage, Green Beans, and Potatoes: Fast & Simple Weeknight Dinner for another easy family favorite!
The Story of Fried Cabbage
Fried cabbage, in its many forms, is a beloved dish across various cuisines, particularly in Southern American and Eastern European traditions. It's celebrated for its humble ingredients transforming into something truly magical when cooked down. Adding various proteins like bacon, as we do here, elevates it from a simple side to a robust main course. The smoked sausage, reminiscent of kielbasa, brings a delightful savory element, while the shrimp adds a touch of the sea, making this version exceptionally well-rounded.
This recipe builds on that classic comfort, adding succulent shrimp for a surf-and-turf experience that’s both familiar and exciting. It's a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals.
For another delicious cabbage-focused meal, check out our Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya Spicy Cajun Cabbage and Rice Skillet!
Ingredients You'll Need
To make this irresistible dish, gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients:
- Bacon (4 slices, chopped)
- Smoked sausage (1 pound, sliced – like kielbasa or andouille)
- Small onion (1, diced)
- Green cabbage (1/2 head, chopped)
- Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Paprika (1 teaspoon)
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons, if needed)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Find exact measurements in the detailed recipe card below!
Expert Tips for Success
- Don't Rush the Bacon: Cooking the bacon slowly renders out its fat, providing a flavorful base for the entire dish.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the bacon and sausage in batches if necessary to ensure they brown properly and don't steam.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to suit your preference.
- Freshness Matters: While frozen shrimp works, fresh, good-quality shrimp will elevate the taste significantly.
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon recipe is more than just a meal; it's a comforting experience waiting to happen in your kitchen. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Just make sure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before adding them to the skillet. This ensures they cook evenly and brown nicely.
What type of sausage is best for fried cabbage with shrimp?
Smoked sausages like kielbasa or andouille work wonderfully, adding a rich, smoky depth of flavor. Feel free to use your favorite variety or what you have on hand.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To kick up the heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes. Diced jalapeu00f1os or a dash of your favorite hot sauce added at the end would also provide a pleasant zing!
How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian (if pork sausage is substituted, or for specific dietary needs)
Description
A delightful one-pan meal featuring tender fried cabbage, crispy bacon, savory smoked sausage, and succulent shrimp, all seasoned to perfection.
Ingredients
4 slices of bacon, chopped
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced (such as kielbasa or andouille)
1 small onion, diced
1/2 head of green cabbage, chopped
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (if needed)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain. Leave the bacon grease in the skillet.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the diced onion and chopped cabbage. Sauté until the cabbage is tender, about 5-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Add the minced garlic, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
Step 7: Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and mix everything well. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
Step 8: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes for your preferred level of spice. A splash of chicken broth can be added if the pan gets too dry during cooking. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
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