This Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp is a delicious celebration of bold flavors and hearty ingredients. The tender cabbage pairs perfectly with smoky bacon, savory andouille sausage, and spicy Cajun shrimp, creating a dish that’s comforting and exciting with every bite.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is simple to make and incredibly satisfying. Serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with rice and cornbread for a complete Southern feast. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Full Recipe:
- 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or cooking oil of choice
- 6 strips of bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 package andouille sausage, sliced diagonally
- 1 lb uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 orange bell pepper, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp all-purpose seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add avocado oil. Cook chopped bacon and sausage until browned and crisp, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
- Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and lemon pepper seasoning. Cook shrimp in the skillet for 1 minute per side. Remove and set aside with bacon and sausage.
- Reserve 1 tsp of grease from the skillet and add butter. Sauté onion and bell peppers until translucent, then stir in minced garlic.
- Add chopped cabbage to the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and cover. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is wilted.
- Season with all-purpose seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Return bacon, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Stir to combine and serve hot. Enjoy over rice, with cornbread, or on its own.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 27 minutes | Total Time: 37 minutes
Calories: 328 kcal | Servings: 6
Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp: A Celebration of Southern Cuisine
Southern cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors, hearty ingredients, and comforting appeal. Among the many dishes that define this culinary tradition, Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp stands out as a flavorful, versatile, and satisfying creation. This dish combines tender cabbage with smoky bacon, savory andouille sausage, and spicy Cajun shrimp to create a symphony of flavors that are as inviting as they are memorable.
A Southern Classic Reimagined
At its core, Southern Fried Cabbage is a beloved dish that has graced tables across the South for generations. Known for its ability to elevate humble ingredients into something extraordinary, this dish embraces the simplicity of cabbage while infusing it with bold seasonings and complementary proteins. By adding shrimp, this recipe takes a modern twist, combining land and sea in a single skillet.
Shrimp, often associated with the rich culinary traditions of the Gulf Coast, introduces a subtle sweetness and tender texture that balances the richness of the bacon and sausage. The result is a dish that feels both familiar and fresh, appealing to long-time fans of Southern food and newcomers alike.
Why This Dish Stands Out
- Versatility in Serving
Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp can be served as a main course or a hearty side dish. Paired with cornbread, rice, or even mashed potatoes, it becomes a meal that satisfies every craving. Its versatility extends to its adaptability for different occasions, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering. - Rich Layers of Flavor
Each ingredient in this dish contributes to its depth of flavor. Smoky bacon and robust andouille sausage lay the foundation, while Cajun-seasoned shrimp adds a spicy kick. The cabbage absorbs these flavors, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy. - Health and Dietary Appeal
Surprisingly, this indulgent-tasting dish is keto-friendly and low in carbs, making it an excellent choice for those on special diets. Packed with vegetables, proteins, and heart-healthy fats, it’s a nourishing meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. The optional use of avocado oil instead of butter allows for customization to suit dietary preferences.
The History and Culture Behind Southern Fried Cabbage
Southern Fried Cabbage is deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of the South. Cabbage, a hardy and affordable vegetable, became a staple in Southern households due to its availability and ability to stay fresh for long periods. Families often paired it with preserved meats like bacon and sausage to create a flavorful, filling dish that stretched their resources.
The addition of shrimp reflects the influence of coastal Southern cooking, where seafood plays a central role. Combining these elements is a testament to the region’s culinary ingenuity, blending ingredients in ways that maximize flavor and minimize waste.
This dish is more than just food; it’s a representation of Southern hospitality and the tradition of gathering around a shared meal. It evokes memories of Sunday dinners, family reunions, and the joy of cooking together.
Tips for Perfecting the Dish
- Selecting the Best Ingredients
High-quality ingredients make all the difference. Opt for fresh, locally sourced shrimp and thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor. Andouille sausage is the classic choice, but smoked sausage or even kielbasa can be used for a slightly different taste. - Balancing the Seasoning
Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and lemon pepper add a bold flavor profile, but adjusting these spices allows you to control the heat and intensity. A pinch of red pepper flakes brings a welcome kick, but it can be omitted for a milder version. - Cooking with Care
The key to perfect cabbage is to cook it just until tender. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, while undercooking leaves it too crisp. Covering the skillet during cooking helps the cabbage steam and absorb the rich flavors from the pan.
Serving Suggestions
Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp shines as a standalone dish, but it pairs beautifully with other Southern staples:
- Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread is a classic accompaniment that soaks up the flavorful juices.
- Rice: A bed of steamed rice provides a neutral base that lets the bold flavors of the dish shine.
- Beans or Peas: Black-eyed peas or butter beans bring additional heartiness and a nod to traditional Southern sides.
- Greens: Collard greens or mustard greens complement the dish while adding more color and nutrients to the plate.
For a complete meal, consider serving this dish with a crisp green salad or a light citrusy slaw to contrast the richness.
Customizing to Your Tastes
This recipe’s flexibility is one of its greatest strengths. Here are a few ideas for customization:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon, sausage, and shrimp, and enhance the cabbage with smoked paprika and a splash of vegetable broth for a rich umami flavor.
- Seafood Variations: Swap the shrimp for crawfish tails or scallops to create a different seafood experience.
- Spicy Twist: Add a diced jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Health Conscious: Use turkey sausage and reduce the amount of butter to make the dish lighter while maintaining its savory appeal.
Why You’ll Love It
This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a joy to prepare. Its one-pot approach minimizes cleanup, while its quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights. As the aroma of sizzling bacon, caramelized onions, and Cajun spices fills your kitchen, you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating that first bite.
Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp is also a conversation starter. Its vibrant presentation, with colorful bell peppers and glistening shrimp, makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. Sharing this dish with loved ones is sure to create memories that linger long after the plates are cleared.
Conclusion
Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp is more than a recipe; it’s a celebration of Southern culinary heritage. This dish brings together the best of the region’s flavors, from the smoky richness of bacon and sausage to the zesty kick of Cajun shrimp. It’s versatile, customizable, and deeply satisfying—qualities that have made it a favorite in kitchens across the South and beyond.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or exploring Southern cuisine for the first time, this dish offers an easy and rewarding way to bring a taste of the South to your table. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again, drawn by its irresistible flavors and the warmth it brings to every meal.