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Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage

Avatar photoAlexa
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium green cabbage chopped (core removed)
  • 1 lb raw shrimp peeled & deveined (tails off)
  • 12 oz smoked sausage Andouille or kielbasa, sliced
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 2 –3 tbsp olive oil or butter for flavor
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice optional, for brightness
  • Fresh parsley chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Prep First
  • Chop cabbage and onions, mince garlic, peel shrimp.
  • This dish moves fast—prepping ahead makes it easy.
  • Sauté the Sausage
  • In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat.
  • Add sausage, cook until browned (4–5 min). Remove and set aside.
  • Cook the Shrimp
  • Add more oil if needed. Cook shrimp 1–2 min per side until pink and opaque.
  • Don’t overcook! Remove and set aside.
  • 🔥 Tip: Shrimp are done once they curl and turn pink.
  • Sauté Aromatics
  • Add diced onion to the skillet. Sauté 2–3 min, scraping up flavor bits.
  • Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the Cabbage
  • Add cabbage in batches, letting it wilt slightly each time.
  • Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
  • Cook 8–10 min, stirring occasionally, until tender with a slight bite.
  • 👌 Don’t let it turn mushy—keep a little texture!
  • Combine & Finish
  • Return sausage and shrimp to the pan. Toss to combine.
  • Cook 2–3 more minutes until heated through.
  • Add lemon juice for a pop of brightness.
  • Garnish & Serve
  • Top with chopped parsley. Serve hot as-is or with cornbread, rice, or roasted potatoes.

Notes

  • Use pre-shredded cabbage to save time.
  • If cabbage releases water, turn up heat to reduce sogginess.
  • Try a butter + oil combo for richer flavor.
  • Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes for variety.
  • Want smokier flavor? Use Cajun sausage or smoked paprika.
  • Meal prepping? Store components separately and combine when reheating.