Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish, this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon is the perfect recipe! Packed with smoky sausage, crispy bacon, and succulent shrimp, this dish combines rich flavors with a hearty texture for a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s low-carb and keto-friendly, making it a great choice for those following a healthy lifestyle.
This one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or a comforting home-cooked dinner. With step-by-step instructions, variations, cooking tips, and keto/low-carb adaptations, you’ll be able to customize this dish exactly to your taste!
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for balance)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the grease in the pan.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- In the same pan with the bacon grease, add the sliced sausage.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until browned.
- Remove sausage and set aside with the bacon.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
- Melt 1 tbsp butter in the same pan.
- Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add another 1 tbsp butter to the pan.
- Stir in diced onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Stir well, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped cabbage and cook, stirring frequently, for 8-10 minutes until it softens.
- Pour in apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
- Return the bacon, sausage, and shrimp to the pan.
- Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot!
Cooking Notes & Tips
- Cabbage Cooking Time: If you like your cabbage crunchy, cook it for less time. For softer cabbage, let it sauté longer.
- Bacon Grease: Using bacon grease enhances the flavor, but you can drain some if it’s too much.
- Sausage Choices: Smoked sausage, andouille, or kielbasa all work great.
- Shrimp Cooking Tip: Shrimp cook quickly; avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
Variations
Keto-Friendly Version
- Use extra bacon and sausage for more fat content.
- Replace Worcestershire sauce with coconut aminos.
- Serve with cauliflower rice.
Low-Carb Version
- Reduce onion quantity to lower carb count.
- Add extra green veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
Spicy Cajun Style
- Add 1 tsp Cajun seasoning.
- Use andouille sausage for extra spice.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Cabbage
- Instead of sausage and bacon, increase shrimp quantity.
- Cook shrimp in garlic butter sauce for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheats beautifully.
2. What type of sausage works best?
Smoked sausage, andouille, or kielbasa add the most flavor.
3. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
4. How do I make this dish milder?
Skip the red pepper flakes and smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
5. Can I add cheese?
Absolutely! Shredded cheddar or Parmesan can be sprinkled on top for extra richness.
Conclusion
Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon is the perfect hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal. Whether you’re on a low-carb, keto-friendly, or high-protein diet, this dish is a winner. With its bold flavors and easy variations, it’s sure to become a staple in your home.
Try it today and let us know what you think! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family!