Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon Recipe

I’m thrilled to share this incredible Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon recipe! It’s a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings together smoky sausage, crispy bacon, and succulent shrimp—all balanced by the tender cabbage. Not only is this meal simple to make, but it’s packed with textures and rich flavors that are sure to please. Plus, it’s all done in just 30 minutes! Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon is an explosion of flavor in every bite. The smoky sausage pairs beautifully with the crispy bacon, while the shrimp adds a subtle sweetness and a delicate texture. But the real star here is the cabbage—fried just until it’s tender but still has that slight crunch, absorbing all those wonderful flavors from the bacon fat and smoked paprika.

Reasons to Love It:

• Easy and Quick: 30 minutes from start to finish.
• One-Skillet Meal: Fewer dishes, more flavor!
• Versatile: Perfect for a low-carb dinner or lunch, but can easily be paired with rice or potatoes for a heartier meal.
• Rich, Smoky, and Slightly Sweet: The balance of smoked sausage, bacon, and shrimp is perfection.

The Taste of Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon

Imagine biting into a dish that’s savory, smoky, and slightly sweet all at once. The shrimp brings a natural sweetness, the sausage and bacon add layers of smoky, salty richness, and the cabbage—oh, the cabbage—is slightly crispy yet tender, absorbing the goodness from all those fats and spices. It’s comfort food at its best but without the heaviness. Each bite is satisfying, but you won’t feel weighed down afterward.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:

• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Benefits:

• Cabbage: High in fiber and packed with vitamins like C and K. It adds bulk to the dish, making it more filling without adding too many calories.
• Shrimp: A lean source of protein, shrimp is quick to cook and adds a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
• Smoked Sausage: Adds depth and smokiness, balancing out the dish with its rich, savory flavor.
• Bacon: Crisp, salty, and indulgent, bacon ties everything together with its irresistible flavor.
• Garlic and Paprika: Garlic provides a fragrant base, while smoked paprika adds a mild heat and a subtle smoky taste.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Tongs (for shrimp)
• Knife and cutting board

How to Make Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to bring this delicious dish to life. It’s so simple that even on a busy weeknight, you can whip it up without stress!

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and rendered. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, but leave that delicious bacon fat in the pan.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Add the sliced sausage to the skillet, cooking it in the bacon fat until it’s browned, about 4-5 minutes. Once the sausage is nice and crispy on the edges, remove it and set it aside with the bacon.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Let the garlic sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the shrimp, cooking them for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Set the shrimp aside with the sausage and bacon.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

Now for the cabbage! Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp. The cabbage will absorb all those wonderful flavors from the bacon fat and paprika.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the sausage, bacon, and shrimp to the skillet with the cabbage. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just enough to heat everything through and blend the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness!

What to Serve with Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon

This dish is incredibly versatile and can stand on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, here are a few ideas:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices.
• Cauliflower Rice: Keeps it low-carb and adds more veggies to your plate.
• Mashed Potatoes: For a more hearty, comforting side.
• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing if you want a bit more starch to complement the dish.

Tips for Perfect Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon

1. Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink.
2. Adjust the seasoning: This recipe is flexible—feel free to add more smoked paprika if you love a stronger smoky flavor, or toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
3. Choose your sausage wisely: A good-quality smoked sausage will add tons of flavor to the dish, so don’t skimp on this ingredient!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until everything is heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of sausage?

Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds a delicious depth, feel free to swap it with your favorite sausage—whether it’s spicy andouille or a milder kielbasa.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

No problem! You can substitute regular paprika, though you may miss that subtle smoky flavor. You could also try adding a dash of liquid smoke to replicate the effect.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! This dish is naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great option for those following a keto or low-carb diet.

Conclusion

Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon is one of those magical recipes that’s both easy and impressive. Whether you’re cooking it for a weeknight dinner or for guests, it’s bound to be a hit. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a memorable dish, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Don’t forget to share your cooking experience in the comments below and pin this recipe on Pinterest for later. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 25g

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