There’s something magical about simple ingredients coming together in a skillet, creating a dish that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor. My Fried Cabbage Shrimp Skillet is just that, a delightful combination of tender shrimp, savory sausage, and crispy cabbage that’s as satisfying to the palate as it is to make. This recipe is perfect for any weeknight dinner and is a family favorite that’s always met with eager smiles.
Fried cabbage is often underrated, but when paired with shrimp and sausage, it transforms into a vibrant meal that evokes homey comfort. This dish is not just satisfying; it’s also an excellent way to sneak in those veggies while delighting your taste buds. Plus, it has a quick prep and cooking time, making it an ideal go-to for busy evenings. The blend of flavors and textures will have you coming back for seconds. Trust me, your family will love it.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound of smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
If you’re looking to halve the recipe, simply use 1/2 of each ingredient, which will still make for a hearty meal. Conversely, when you need to serve a larger crowd, just double everything.
Instructions
Step 1:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced sausage and let it cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. This will infuse the oil with wonderful flavors.
Step 2:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, around 3-4 minutes.
Step 3:
Next, toss in the shredded cabbage. Stir well and let it cook down, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender, which should take about 5-8 minutes. The cabbage will sizzle beautifully.
Step 4:
Add in the shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, they’ll become rubbery.
Step 5:
Once everything is well combined and cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Nutritional Information
While the exact nutritional values may vary based on cooking methods and specific ingredients, a serving of Fried Cabbage Shrimp Skillet generally contains approximately 300 calories. It’s rich in protein from the shrimp and sausage while providing fiber from the cabbage. A well-balanced meal if you ask me.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using turkey or chicken sausage instead of smoked sausage for fewer calories and less fat. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or carrots to boost the nutritional content further and stick to my recipe for creamy chicken mushroom pasta for a delicious side dish to complement your skillet creation.
Serving Suggestions
This Fried Cabbage Shrimp Skillet pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice, quinoa, or even crusty artisan bread to soak up any leftover juices. You can serve it warm in bowls, adding a sprinkle of lemon juice for a refreshing contrast that brightens the entire dish.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake while cooking cabbage is overcooking it. Avoid that mushy texture by keeping an eye on it and pulling it from the heat once it’s just tender. Also, be sure to season properly, as cabbage can be a bit bland if it doesn’t have enough flavor.
Chef’s Notes
- This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated; the flavors will meld beautifully.
- If you love a bit of heat, try adding some red pepper flakes for that kick.
- Don’t hesitate to get creative. Adding different vegetables or herbs can transform the dish each time you make it.
FAQs
- Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A1: Absolutely; Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding. - Q2: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A2: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet. - Q3: Can I add other proteins?
A3: Yes, It works great with diced chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
This Fried Cabbage Shrimp Skillet is not only a great way to enjoy a comforting meal but also a fantastic recipe to impress your friends and family. If you’re looking for more shrimp inspirations, don’t forget to check out my Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delightful bite!
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Fried Cabbage Shrimp Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Simple ingredients, big flavors! This Fried Cabbage Shrimp Skillet brings together juicy shrimp, savory sausage, and tender cabbage in one comforting skillet meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound of smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage slices and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is just tender.
- Add shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Avoid overcooking the cabbage to prevent it from getting mushy. For a lighter version, use turkey or chicken sausage. Add bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: shrimp, cabbage, skillet, sausage, quick dinner