Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon: A Southern Summer Sizzler
Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon: A Southern Summer Sizzler
There’s something undeniably soulful about a sizzling skillet of fried cabbage, especially when it’s packed with juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and crispy bacon. This dish is one of those feel-good meals that my Southern grandmother used to whip up in the summertime — quick, hearty, and full of bold flavors. She believed in cooking with love and a little bit of spice, and this recipe embodies all of that.
Let’s dive into this Southern classic that’s perfect for warm summer nights, backyard cookouts, or even a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on comfort or flavor.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large)
- 6 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked preferred)
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for brightness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
⏱️ Prep & Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
🔥 Instructions
Step 1: Get the Bacon Going
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
Add the sausage slices to the same skillet. Let them sear until they’re browned on both sides (about 3-4 minutes). Remove them and set aside with the bacon.
Step 3: Shrimp Time
In the same pan, toss in the shrimp. Cook them quickly — about 1-2 minutes per side — just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and keep with the rest of the cooked proteins.
Step 4: Build the Flavor Base
Add diced onions to the skillet (you can add a splash of olive oil if the pan seems dry). Cook until translucent, then add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
Step 5: Sizzle the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne (if using). Stir well to coat the cabbage in all those flavorful drippings and spices.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender with a bit of golden caramelization — about 10-12 minutes.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Return the bacon, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Add the apple cider vinegar for brightness and toss everything together. Let it all mingle in the pan for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Top with chopped parsley and serve hot, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
🌿 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Balanced in flavor: Smoky, savory, slightly sweet from cabbage, and a hint of heat.
- Quick and easy: One skillet, under 45 minutes.
- Versatile: Swap proteins, add bell peppers or even a splash of hot sauce.
- Low carb & gluten-free: A wholesome, guilt-free Southern indulgence.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve this with a slice of cornbread or fresh summer tomatoes.
- Add it to a bowl of grits for a truly Southern twist.
- Enjoy with a chilled glass of sweet tea or a crisp lager.
💡 Tips & Variations
- No shrimp? Use chicken or just double the sausage.
- Love spice? Add sliced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or a touch of heavy cream at the end for a creamy twist.
- Add more veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, or kale pair beautifully.
🌟 Reader Favorites
If you love this dish, check out these other crowd-pleasers:
- Southern Style Fried Corn with Bacon
- Spicy Cajun Shrimp & Rice Skillet
- Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Shrimp
- Easy Summer Zucchini Casserole
📋 Nutrition Info (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
