A Southern Classic: Fried Cabbage with Andouille Sausage and Jumbo Shrimp Recipe

Photo byAngie Bright

In the world of Southern comfort food, few dishes can match the heartiness and flavor of fried cabbage with andouille sausage and jumbo shrimp. This dish, packed with smoky, savory, and slightly spicy elements, is a perfect representation of the South's culinary spirit. The combination of crisp cabbage, flavorful sausage, smoky bacon, and succulent shrimp brings together a medley of textures and tastes that truly satisfies. If you're looking for a dish that balances both comfort and bold flavors, this recipe is the answer.

Southern cooking often celebrates the simplicity of fresh ingredients, elevated by the right seasonings. In this fried cabbage dish, the andouille sausage brings a rich, smoky heat, while the jumbo shrimp adds a fresh, briny sweetness. The cabbage, softened and sautéed to perfection, absorbs the flavors of garlic, onion, and bell pepper, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite.

Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Andouille Sausage and Jumbo Shrimp

Ingredients:

• 1 head of cabbage, cored, chopped, and rinsed
• 1 package of andouille sausage, sliced
• 3 slices of thick bacon, cut into pieces
• Raw jumbo shrimp (use your preferred amount)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• Cajun seasoning, to taste
• Lemon pepper, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons of butter

Directions:

1. Cook the Sausage and Bacon: Start by sautéing the sliced andouille sausage and chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until both are fully done, with the bacon crispy and the sausage browned. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Using the same skillet, cook your raw jumbo shrimp. Sauté them until they turn pink and opaque, ensuring they are fully cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside with the sausage and bacon.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Remove some of the grease from the pan, leaving just a bit for flavor. Add 2-3 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, letting it melt over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and orange bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover with a lid. Allow the cabbage to cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. The cabbage will begin to wilt and absorb the flavors from the pan.
5. Season and Combine: After 20 minutes, season the cabbage with Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, and ground black pepper to your liking. Stir the seasonings through the cabbage, then cover and continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cabbage reaches your desired texture.
6. Finish the Dish: Once the cabbage is tender, return the cooked shrimp, bacon, and sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together and heat through for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the dish is served hot.
7. Serve: Plate the fried cabbage with sausage and shrimp, and enjoy the rich Southern flavors of this comforting meal.

Conclusion

This Southern fried cabbage with andouille sausage and jumbo shrimp is a true comfort food experience. The combination of the smoky sausage, crispy bacon, tender shrimp, and sautéed vegetables makes it a standout dish. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it's a versatile and hearty meal that brings a taste of the South to your kitchen. Whether you're a fan of traditional Southern cuisine or just looking for something new to try, this recipe will hit the spot.

For an excellent take on Southern Fried Cabbage with sausage and shrimp, several sources offer variations of this flavorful dish. The foundation typically involves cabbage, bacon, andouille sausage, and sometimes shrimp, combined with sautéed garlic, onions, and bell peppers. Seasonings such as Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper give it a spicy kick. The shrimp and sausage bring a balance of richness and briny flavors, while the cabbage absorbs all the savory elements for a hearty dish.

I Heart Recipes features a version with a Cajun twist, incorporating both green and red cabbage and cooking the sausage and bacon first, before tossing in the shrimp and other ingredients​(I Heart Recipes). Smokin' and Grillin' with AB also highlights a similar method, sautéing cabbage with smoked sausage, onions, and bell peppers, with an option to customize the seasoning to personal preference​(Smokin' and Grillin' with AB). Another variant by Junior Daily Recipes includes adding diced tomatoes and steaming the cabbage to retain moisture, which softens the texture while blending the flavors​(Junior Daily Recipes).