Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage

This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender fried cabbage, juicy shrimp, and smoky sausage for a satisfying meal. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and a touch of salt and pepper, this one-pan wonder is quick to prepare and packed with bold flavors. Serve it as a main course or a side dish—it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds or half-moons
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already prepared, and pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly.
3. Slice the smoked sausage into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and crispy. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Cabbage

1. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the chopped cabbage to the pan and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and begins to caramelize at the edges.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp

1. Push the cabbage to one side of the pan and add the shrimp to the empty side. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked sausage to the pan and toss everything together. Stir gently to combine the cabbage, shrimp, and sausage, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the seasonings.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or smoked paprika if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve hot as a main dish or alongside crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Choose Quality Sausage: Use your favorite smoked sausage—options like Andouille, Kielbasa, or smoked turkey sausage work well.
• Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, sauté diced onions, bell peppers, or carrots along with the cabbage.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage is a delicious blend of textures and flavors—crispy cabbage, tender shrimp, and smoky sausage come together in perfect harmony. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers big on taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share with friends and family, this recipe has it all. Dive into this savory, satisfying dish and enjoy every bite!