Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon – A One-Pan Southern Comfort Classic

If you’re looking for a soul-satisfying, flavor-packed dish that comes together in one skillet, this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon is your new go-to. It’s smoky, savory, and just the right amount of spicy—perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd. With crispy bacon, juicy shrimp, and hearty sausage all nestled into tender, caramelized cabbage, this dish is a celebration of Southern comfort with a coastal twist.

Whether you serve it as a main course or a hearty side, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan wonder – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
• Protein-packed – Shrimp, sausage, and bacon make it satisfying and filling.
• Bold and smoky – Layers of flavor from smoked paprika, seafood seasoning, and seared meats.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Low-carb and keto-friendly – Naturally grain-free and full of wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

This recipe serves 4–6 people.

• 5 slices of bacon, chopped
  Adds smoky flavor and crispy texture.
• ½ cup yellow onions, chopped
  Sweet and aromatic—builds the flavor base.
• 3 cups cabbage, cut into thin strips
  Tender and slightly sweet when sautéed.
• 10–12 shrimp, tails off and deveined
  Adds a juicy, briny bite.
• 1 link kielbasa or smoked sausage, sliced ½ inch thick
  Hearty and flavorful—choose your favorite variety.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  Helps sauté the vegetables and proteins.
• 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning
  Adds a savory, slightly spicy kick (like Old Bay or Cajun blend).
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  Deepens the smoky flavor and adds color.

Optional Add-ins: Red pepper flakes, garlic, bell peppers, or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and knife
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Paper towels
• Serving dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Place a large skillet over medium heat.

Add 5 chopped bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.

Leave about 1–2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet for added flavor.

Tip: If there’s too much grease, drain the excess, but don’t wipe the pan—you want that flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Sausage

To the same skillet, add:

• ½ cup chopped yellow onions
• 1 link kielbasa or smoked sausage, sliced

Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and the sausage is browned.

Remove from the skillet and set aside with the bacon.

Step 3: Cook the Cabbage

Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet if needed.

Add:

• 3 cups thinly sliced cabbage

Season with:

• 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—let the cabbage brown a bit for extra flavor.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp

Push the cabbage to one side of the skillet.

Add the 10–12 shrimp to the empty side and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.

Once cooked, stir everything together.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked bacon and sausage to the skillet.

Toss everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add more seafood seasoning, salt, or pepper to your liking.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the fried cabbage mixture to a serving dish.

Garnish with chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or a dash of hot sauce if desired.

Serve hot as a main dish or hearty side.

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Calories: ~320 kcal per serving (approximate)

Tips for Success

• Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• Slice cabbage thinly so it cooks evenly and quickly.
• Don’t skip the bacon—it adds depth and richness.
• Adjust the spice to your taste—add cayenne or hot sauce for more heat.
• Make it a meal by serving over rice, grits, or cauliflower rice.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Cornbread or garlic toast
• Steamed rice or creamy grits
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Pickled vegetables for contrast

Variations to Try

• Cajun Style: Add bell peppers, celery, and Cajun seasoning.
• Low-Sodium: Use turkey sausage and reduce added salt.
• Vegetarian: Omit shrimp and bacon, and add mushrooms or tofu.
• Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for a stir-fry twist.
• Tex-Mex: Add black beans, corn, and chili powder for a Southwestern flair.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as cabbage and shrimp can become mushy when thawed.

Final Thoughts

This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon is a celebration of bold flavors and satisfying textures. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug—hearty, smoky, and full of soul. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something savory and satisfying, this one-skillet wonder is sure to hit the spot.