Name: Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 6 strips of bacon, cut into bite-size pieces; 1 package andouille sausage, sliced diagonally into 1/2 inch pieces; 1 lb uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 large head of cabbage, chopped; 1 medium onion, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 orange bell pepper, sliced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or cooking oil of choice); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning; 2 teaspoons all purpose seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Pinch of red pepper flakes

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 11 reviews

If you are craving a dish that combines bold Southern flavors with the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables, then this Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, hearty meal that effortlessly brings together tender shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, crispy bacon, and perfectly wilted cabbage—all seasoned to perfection with Cajun and smoked paprika spices. This dish bursts with savory goodness and a touch of heat, making it an absolute favorite for family dinners or weekend gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, this Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe will become one of your go-to comfort foods!

Ingredients You'll Need

In a close-up view, there is a frying pan filled with small shrimp being cooked in bubbling oil. The shrimp are light orange with a shiny surface, arranged in a somewhat circular pattern inside the pan. A black spatula is pressing down on a few shrimp, held by a pair of black-gloved hands. The pan has a gray textured surface with a honeycomb-like pattern, and the scene focuses only on the cooking process without any extra ingredients in sight. The background is a white marbled texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role—whether it's the creamy butter melting into the cabbage or the smoky crunch from the bacon—together, they create a symphony of flavors that feel both rustic and rich.

1 Large Head of Cabbage, chopped: This is the star veggie, offering a wonderful texture and subtle sweetness as it wilts down.
1 tablespoon Avocado oil: Perfect for high-heat cooking and adds a mild, buttery undertone without overpowering flavors.
6 Strips of Bacon, cut into bite-size pieces: Adds a wickedly crispy, smoky punch to the dish.
1 package Andouille sausage, sliced diagonally: A traditional Southern sausage that’s spicy and full of character.
1 lb Uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined: Brings tender seafood sweetness balanced by vibrant Cajun spices.
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Infuses a rich smoky aroma that enhances the meat and veggies.
1 teaspoon Cajun Seasoning: Adds that signature Southern kick, blending heat and spices beautifully.
1 teaspoon Lemon Pepper Seasoning: A citrusy zest that brightens the overall flavor profile.
2 tablespoons Butter: Enriches the sautéed onions and peppers with a luscious, silky finish.
1 Medium Onion, sliced: Provides sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
1 Red Bell pepper, sliced: Offers vibrant color and a subtle fruity flavor.
1 Orange Bell Pepper, sliced: Adds cheerful brightness and balances the spices.
2 Garlic Cloves, minced: Brings that essential aroma that makes everything taste home-cooked.
2 teaspoons All Purpose Seasoning: A balanced blend to season the cabbage perfectly.
½ teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a familiar peppery warmth.
Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes: Just enough to give a subtle teasing heat without overwhelming the dish.

How to Make Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Crisp Up the Bacon and Andouille Sausage

Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and adding the avocado oil. Toss in the bacon strips and sliced andouille sausage and fry them until they become beautifully browned and crispy, about 3 to 5 minutes. This initial cooking step is crucial because it releases those smoky, savory fats that will flavor the whole dish. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside, but don’t clean the pan—those browned bits are pure gold for the next step.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Shrimp

Next, coat your peeled and deveined shrimp in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and lemon pepper seasoning. These spices marry wonderfully with the shrimp’s natural sweetness. Add the shrimp to the hot skillet and cook them quickly, about 60 seconds per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the bacon and sausage, reserving a bit of flavorful grease in the skillet for the veggies.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Bell Peppers in Butter

Keep about a teaspoon of the leftover grease in the skillet, then melt the butter right in it. Add the sliced onions and red and orange bell peppers and sauté until the onions turn translucent and the peppers soften slightly. This step builds a sweet and savory base that balances the spicy meats. Toss in minced garlic last and stir everything together until fragrant—but don’t let it brown or burn, garlic cooks fast!

Step 4: Wilt Down the Cabbage with Seasonings

Stir in the chopped cabbage and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid—you want the cabbage to steam and soften, absorbing all those smoky, buttery flavors. After 10 to 12 minutes, uncover and stir in the all-purpose seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, then cover again. This slow cooking stage softens the cabbage perfectly while allowing the spices to mingle and deepen.

Step 5: Combine Everything and Serve

Finally, lift the lid and add back the crispy bacon, spicy andouille sausage, and tender shrimp. Stir gently just to combine all those fantastic flavors without breaking up the shrimp. Serve this Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe piping hot—whether over steaming rice, alongside fluffy cornbread, or simply on its own. Every bite promises layers of Southern comfort and freshness.

How to Serve Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe

This dish is a close-up of a cooked mix in a white bowl. It has three main layers: pinkish-orange shrimp, dark brown sausage slices, and pale green cabbage pieces with some red and yellow bell pepper strips. The shrimp look soft and curved, the sausage slices are browned on the surface, and the cabbage looks cooked but still crisp. The dish has a light sauce that makes it a little shiny. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or parsley on top brightens this dish both visually and flavor-wise, adding a fresh, herbal note that complements the rich spices. A squeeze of fresh lemon over each portion can also lighten up the smoky richness with a burst of acidity.

Side Dishes

This Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, or steamed white rice. If you're looking to keep things lighter, a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a fantastic contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the dish family-style in a big rustic cast-iron skillet placed right in the center of the table. Alternatively, scoop the cabbage and shrimp into warm tortilla wraps or use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers to elevate the presentation and bring a fun fusion twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days without losing much of its flavor or texture. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

This dish freezes fairly well if you want to prep in advance. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Frozen portions can last up to 2 months for best taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of water or broth can help restore moisture if the cabbage seems dry. Avoid microwaving for best texture retention, but if pressed for time, short microwave bursts with stirring in between work too.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to prevent excess moisture from diluting the flavors and steaming the cabbage.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe?

You can swap out the shrimp, bacon, and sausage for hearty mushrooms, smoked tofu, or tempeh along with additional spices to keep the smoky, savory character without meat.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe carries a moderate heat level, thanks to Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste from mild to bold and fiery.

What type of rice pairs best with this dish?

Traditional white rice or jasmine rice works beautifully because they soak up the flavorful juices perfectly, but brown rice offers an earthy, nutty note if you prefer something more wholesome.

Can I use a different oil if I don’t have avocado oil?

Yes, you can substitute with vegetable oil, canola oil, or even light olive oil. Just make sure it has a high smoke point to handle the frying process without burning.

Final Thoughts

Once you dive into this Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved Southern classic. It’s a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that makes every bite deeply satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or wanting to wow guests with something uniquely delicious, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try—you’re going to love how easy and rewarding this dish is to make and share!

Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need

How to Make Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp Recipe