Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon

There’s something inherently cozy about sizzling bacon mingling with tender cabbage, sweet shrimp, and robust sausage dancing together in a generous skillet. The first time I encountered Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage, and Bacon was during a family gathering at my grandmother’s home. The aroma wafting through the kitchen was nothing short of magical. I remember sneaking into the kitchen, lured by the comforting scent, watching as she expertly tossed the ingredients together. The perfectly caramelized cabbage clung to the smoky bits of bacon, and the vibrant shrimp nestled among all the flavors.

That dish quickly became a staple, not just for its delectable taste but for the feeling of warmth it brought to everyone gathered around the table. Each bite punctuated by sweetness and a hint of spice became an instant family favorite. And if you’ve ever wanted a meal that’s as soul-soothing as a bear hug on a rainy day, this one will win you over too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Whip this up in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings!
• Flavorful Fusion: Packed with a smoky, sweet flavor that dances on your palate, making every bite enjoyable.
• Crowd-Pleasing: It brings together everyone’s favorite ingredients—bacon, shrimp, and sausage—for a dish that never fails to impress.
• Nutritious: Loaded with fiber-rich cabbage and protein from the shrimp and sausage, this meal strikes a healthy balance.
• Versatile Leftovers: This dish tastes amazing the next day, allowing you to enjoy those cozy flavors even longer.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cabbage, shredded: This is the heart of the dish! You can prepare it fresh or pre-shredded for ease.
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Look for wild-caught shrimp if possible for the best flavor. Note that frozen shrimp works just fine too, but thaw it ahead of time!
• 1 sausage, sliced (Italian or smoked sausage works well): A flavorful sausage adds depth—choose your favorite or try something new!
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped: This will add that irresistible smoky flavor that pulls all the elements together.
• 1 onion, chopped: Fresh onions create a wonderful base, adding sweetness and depth; opt for yellow or sweet varieties.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a robust aroma and elevates the overall flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: These basics are essential for bringing all the ingredients to life—don’t be shy!
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This will help when sautéing the ingredients—and you can use avocado oil as a substitute if desired.
• Optional: red pepper flakes for spice: Feel free to add a pinch for some added heat, custom-tailored to your taste.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. The rich aroma will start to fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the magic to come. Remove the crispy bacon and set aside, leaving those glorious drippings in the skillet.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them until they become translucent, about 2-3 minutes. The smell of caramelizing onion mingled with garlic is one of life’s simple pleasures.

3. Brown the Sausage

Add your sliced sausage to the skillet now and let it brown nicely. This may take about 5 minutes—it’s where the dish’s hearty complexity starts unfolding. Stir occasionally, letting the sausage imbue delicious flavor throughout.

4. Cook the Cabbage

Stir in the shredded cabbage, cooking it for about 5-7 minutes. The cabbage will wilt down, absorbing all those smoky flavors; it’s a delightful transformation that will have you encouraged to keep stirring.

5. Add the Shrimp

Now, it’s time for the shrimp! Toss them into the skillet and watch as they turn pink and juicy, about 2-3 minutes. The color is so vibrant, it’s like a little party happening in your pan!

6. Season It

Sprinkle in some salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to suit your taste. A quick stir to combine all the elements, and you’ll feel that warmth emanating from the skillet.

7. Add the Bacon Back

Finally, fold in the already crispy bacon and mix well. Once everything’s melded together and heated through, serve hot. Trust me, you’ll want to enjoy this fragrant bowl while it’s steaming!

Pro Tips for Success

• For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
• Don’t crowd the skillet; if needed, cook in batches to get that perfect sauté.
• Adjust the cooking time for the shrimp based on their size; larger shrimp may need an additional minute or two.

Flavor Variations

• Substitute different meats: try adding chicken, chorizo, or plant-based sausage for a unique twist.
• Incorporate seasonal veggies: think carrots or bell peppers for color and added crunch.
• Use different spices: curry powder or smoked paprika can give an entirely new vibe to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or warm crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices. For a drink, a crisp white wine or sparkling water with a wedge of lime would complement the meal nicely. When plating, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of lemon juice can brighten it up even more!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can chop your vegetables and prepare your ingredients ahead of time. Store them in the fridge up to a day in advance. Leftovers keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the fridge.

Leftovers

Did you have some leftovers? Turn them into a scrumptious stuffed omelet for brunch or toss them into a hearty soup for a quick lunch!

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but I recommend doing so before adding the shrimp to prevent it from becoming rubbery. Pack in airtight containers or freezer bags, removing excess air and labeling. To thaw, place in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

For best results, reheat this dish on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil if necessary. You can also microwave individual servings, but be mindful to check that it heats through without drying out.

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the shrimp and sausage with your favorite plant-based meat alternatives and leave out the bacon or use a vegan substitute.

How spicy is this dish?
This dish is fairly mild unless you add red pepper flakes. You can adjust the spice level to your preference!

Can I use different kinds of cabbage?
Yes! Green cabbage is common, but you can also use savoy or even bok choy for a unique twist!

What can I do if the cabbage is too crunchy?
If you prefer softer cabbage, cook it longer during the sautéing phase. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t become mushy!

Final Thoughts

Cooking Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage, and Bacon is about more than just the ingredients; it’s about sharing that cozy feeling with those you love. As you fill your home with these warm, tantalizing aromas, remember that every bite can take you back to treasured memories—and create beautiful new ones. So gather your ingredients, light your stove, and let this dish wrap you in warmth and joy. Happy cooking!