Fried Cabbage With Shrimp

This hearty skillet dinner features crispy bacon, savory sausage, and juicy shrimp tossed with tender cabbage in a flavorful seasoned sauce. It brings together bold Southern flavors in one satisfying dish perfect for low-carb meals.

I first made this dish on a chilly evening and the rich aromas filled the kitchen instantly. Now it’s a go-to when I want something comforting yet quick.

Ingredients

• Bacon five slices chopped: adds smokiness and crisp texture choose thick cut for best results
• Shrimp ten to twelve peeled and deveined: brings sweet seafood flavor use fresh or frozen
• Kielbasa or smoked sausage one link sliced: adds savory depth look for quality smoked varieties
• Cabbage three cups thinly sliced: provides tender crunch select fresh green cabbage for mild flavor
• Yellow onions half cup chopped: build aromatic sweetness select firm onions without bruises
• Garlic two cloves minced: adds pungent warmth fresh garlic enhances overall taste
• Olive oil one tablespoon: used to marinate shrimp and for cooking pick extra virgin for flavor
• Butter two tablespoons divided: enriches the dish with creamy fat use unsalted if possible
• Apple cider vinegar one tablespoon: balances richness and brightens flavors opt for raw or organic
• Seafood seasoning one teaspoon like Old Bay: adds zest use your favorite blend
• Smoked paprika half teaspoon: adds subtle smoky notes choose Spanish variety if available
• Black pepper quarter teaspoon: freshly ground for spice
• Salt quarter teaspoon: enhances all flavors
• Dried oregano half teaspoon: adds herbal undertone
• Crushed red pepper flakes to taste: give heat use sparingly to avoid overpowering

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Bacon:

Cook chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy about 8 minutes stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking then remove with a slotted spoon leaving grease in the pan

Brown the Sausage:

Add sliced kielbasa or smoked sausage to bacon grease cook each side about 2 to 3 minutes until browned then remove and set aside with bacon

Cook the Shrimp:

Toss shrimp with olive oil and seafood seasoning marinate briefly then cook in the skillet for 3 minutes per side until pink and curled remove and set aside with other proteins

Sauté the Aromatics:

Melt one tablespoon butter in skillet add chopped onions with smoked paprika oregano salt black pepper and red pepper flakes cook about 5 to 6 minutes stirring occasionally until onions soften and become translucent add minced garlic cook 30 seconds until fragrant

Wilt the Cabbage:

Add remaining butter and apple cider vinegar let meld then add sliced cabbage toss to coat cook for 12 minutes stirring occasionally until cabbage is tender but still slightly firm and caramelized

Combine and Heat:

Return bacon sausage and shrimp to skillet fold gently to combine warm through about 1 to 2 minutes taste and adjust seasoning before serving

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I love how the bacon grease creates a rich base that carries the flavor throughout. This dish reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone gathers around the table hungry and happy.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture Avoid microwaving directly as shrimp can become rubbery and cabbage soggy Freezing is possible but may affect the cabbage’s texture upon thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

Turkey bacon can replace pork bacon for a lighter option Andouille sausage adds a spicier twist if you prefer more heat Napa cabbage works well if green cabbage is unavailable Lemon juice can substitute apple cider vinegar for acidity

Serving Suggestions

Serve with steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a fuller meal Pair with a simple green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette Add crusty bread on the side to soak up the flavorful sauce

Cultural Context

This dish reflects Southern American home cooking that emphasizes bold flavors and efficient one-pan meals. Combining pork, seafood, and cabbage is common in coastal Southern states where these ingredients are abundant. The use of smoked sausage and bacon offers deep smoky richness typical of Southern cuisine.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do you cook the shrimp without overcooking?

Cook shrimp about 3 minutes per side until pink and curled into a "C" shape to avoid toughness.

→ What type of sausage works best for this dish?

Smoked sausage or kielbasa sliced into 1/2 inch pieces provides the best flavor and texture.

→ Can I substitute the cabbage with another vegetable?

Yes, green cabbage is ideal, but savoy or napa cabbage can be used for a slightly different texture.

→ What role does apple cider vinegar play in the recipe?

It adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of bacon, sausage, and butter.

→ Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, it combines proteins and vegetables with minimal carbohydrates, making it low-carb friendly.

→ How should I prevent overcrowding the pan when cooking proteins?

Cook proteins in batches to ensure even browning and avoid steaming.