Savory Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage, and Crispy Bacon

This Savory Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage, and Crispy Bacon is a hearty skillet meal full of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors. It’s a low-carb, protein-packed dish that combines vibrant vegetables with rich meats and seafood for a delicious one-pan wonder.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and filling: A perfect balance of smoky sausage, sweet shrimp, and savory bacon.
Quick and easy: Made in just 30 minutes with simple steps.
Versatile: Easily adjustable to your taste—omit shrimp or swap sausage types.
Low-carb friendly: Satisfying without heavy starches or grains.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
½ lb smoked sausage, sliced
½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 strips of bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

directions

In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, reserving some bacon grease in the skillet.
Add olive oil to the skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté sliced sausage for 5–7 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, cook onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add shrimp, season with paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Add shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
Return sausage, shrimp, and bacon to the skillet. Drizzle with apple cider vinegar and toss well. Cook for 2–3 more minutes to blend flavors.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Calories: 350 kcal per serving

Variations

Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for more vegetables.
Swap apple cider vinegar with lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
Try Old Bay seasoning instead of paprika for a seafood flair.

storage/reheating

Store: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts.
Freeze: Not recommended due to texture changes in cabbage and shrimp upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare everything and reheat just before serving. Add fresh parsley at the end for brightness.

Is this meal keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fats and protein, fitting well into keto diets.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, add them just to warm through to avoid overcooking.

What type of sausage works best?

Smoked sausage or kielbasa is ideal, but you can also use spicy andouille for a bolder flavor.

Can I make it spicier?

Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.

How to keep shrimp from getting rubbery?

Don’t overcook—2–3 minutes per side is sufficient once they’re pink and opaque.

Can I omit the bacon?

Yes, but consider using a bit more olive oil and smoked paprika to retain flavor depth.

How do I shred cabbage easily?

Use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer for uniform thin strips.

What sides go well with this?

It pairs well with cornbread, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Is apple cider vinegar essential?

It adds brightness but can be replaced with white vinegar or lemon juice.

Conclusion

Savory Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage, and Crispy Bacon is an all-in-one skillet meal that’s quick, satisfying, and packed with bold, balanced flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend feasts, this dish showcases how simple ingredients can come together for a comforting and nutritious meal.

[tasty-recipe id=”15367″]