Cabbage Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon

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

  1. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
  3. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the grease in the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

  1. In the same pan with the bacon grease, add the sliced sausage.
  2. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until browned.
  3. Remove sausage and set aside with the bacon.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

  1. Melt 1 tbsp butter in the same pan.
  2. Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
  3. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Add another 1 tbsp butter to the pan.
  2. Stir in diced onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder.
  4. Stir well, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add the chopped cabbage and cook, stirring frequently, for 8-10 minutes until it softens.
  6. Pour in apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

  1. Return the bacon, sausage, and shrimp to the pan.
  2. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  3. 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!

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