Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp

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Bold Southern flavors combine tender cabbage, juicy shrimp, and savory meats in one hearty skillet meal.

Introduction: The Soul of Southern Cooking

Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp is an iconic dish steeped in Southern culinary tradition. It’s the perfect balance of fresh vegetables, succulent seafood, and smoky, savory meats—each element bringing its own flavor and texture to the skillet.

Cabbage, often overlooked, shines here as the tender, slightly sweet base, absorbing the robust flavors of bacon, sausage, and seasoning. Shrimp adds a juicy seafood twist, giving this dish a special coastal charm that evokes memories of Southern family dinners, Sunday suppers, and festive gatherings.

Whether you’re a Southern food enthusiast or just discovering the cuisine, this recipe will introduce you to the art of simple, flavorful, and wholesome cooking with easy-to-find ingredients.

Ingredients (US Cup Measures)

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp. These amounts serve about 6 people, perfect for a family meal or a small group.

  • 1 large head of cabbage, chopped (about 8 cups)

  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or your preferred cooking oil)

  • 6 strips thick-cut bacon, chopped

  • 1 package andouille sausage (about 14 oz), sliced into ½-inch pieces

  • 1 lb uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 1 medium onion, sliced

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 orange bell pepper, sliced

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra heat

Preparation Overview

This dish can be broken down into manageable parts: cooking the meats, seasoning and cooking the shrimp, sautéing the vegetables, and finally cooking the cabbage until tender. Once everything is cooked, it all comes together in one skillet for a quick final mix and serve.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Meats

Start by heating your tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped bacon and sliced andouille sausage.

  • Why this order? Bacon and sausage render out their fat and infuse the pan with flavor, which will season the rest of the ingredients.

  • Cook the bacon and sausage until they are crispy and browned — this typically takes about 6–8 minutes.

  • Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked meats and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

  • Important: Leave the rendered fat in the pan as it’s packed with flavor and will be the base for cooking your shrimp and vegetables.

2. Season and Cook the Shrimp

In a small bowl, toss your peeled and deveined shrimp with the smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, and lemon pepper seasoning. This spice mix gives the shrimp that classic Southern kick — smoky, spicy, and citrusy.

  • Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet with the bacon fat.

  • Cook for about 1 minute per side, or until the shrimp turn opaque and pink.

  • Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside with the meats.

  • Don’t overcook shrimp — they can turn rubbery quickly.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt over medium heat. Once melted:

  • Add the sliced onions, red bell pepper, and orange bell pepper.

  • Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables become tender and start to caramelize slightly, enhancing their sweetness.

  • Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to infuse the dish with a subtle garlic aroma.

4. Cook the Cabbage

Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.

  • Cover the skillet with a lid to trap steam and cook the cabbage for about 10–12 minutes.

  • Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

  • The cabbage should wilt and become tender but still retain a slight crunch, giving the dish texture.

  • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

  • If desired, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.

5. Combine and Serve

Return the cooked bacon, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet with the cabbage and veggies.

  • Stir everything gently but thoroughly to combine.

  • Let everything heat through for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve hot, straight from the skillet, either as a main dish or alongside cornbread, rice, or your favorite Southern sides.

Prep & Cook Time

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 27 minutes

  • Total Time: 37 minutes

This recipe is quick enough for weeknights yet flavorful enough to impress guests.

Nutritional Information

Each serving contains approximately 328 kcal. It’s a balanced dish rich in protein from shrimp, bacon, and sausage, combined with fiber and vitamins from the cabbage and peppers.

Tips and Variations for Perfect Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp

  • Sausage Variations: While andouille sausage is traditional and adds a smoky, spicy flavor, you can substitute with kielbasa, chorizo, or even a milder smoked sausage depending on your preference.

  • Extra Vegetables: To bulk up the dish and add nutrients, consider adding sliced celery, chopped carrots, or even diced tomatoes during the sauté phase.

  • Adjusting Heat: For a milder dish, reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. For more heat, add fresh jalapeños or hot sauce.

  • Make It Vegetarian: Skip the shrimp, bacon, and sausage. Use smoked paprika, liquid smoke, and vegetable broth to mimic the smoky, savory flavor and add some hearty mushrooms.

  • Storage & Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors often deepen after a day.

  • Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides such as cornbread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

  • Balanced Flavors: The smoky bacon and sausage contrast with the sweetness of the bell peppers and cabbage, while the shrimp adds a tender seafood note.

  • Textural Harmony: Crunchy cabbage and tender shrimp create a pleasing mouthfeel.

  • Simple, One-Pan Cooking: Minimal cleanup and straightforward cooking steps.

  • Customizable: Easy to tweak spice levels and ingredients for personal taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent sogginess.

What if I don’t have andouille sausage?

Use any smoked sausage or even regular breakfast sausage with a pinch of extra smoked paprika.

Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure your sausage and seasonings are gluten-free, and you’re good to go.

Final Thoughts

Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp is a fantastic dish that embodies the spirit of Southern cooking — bold, hearty, and soulful. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, or a show-stopping side for your next holiday feast.

By mastering this recipe, you embrace the warm, inviting flavors of the South and create memories around the table with family and friends.

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