If you had told 10-year-old me, standing barefoot on a kitchen stool watching Grandma slice cabbage with lightning speed, that I’d one day be writing about a Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl for thousands of readers I’d probably have dropped the pepper shaker in shock.
Back then, food was more than just food. It was the backdrop to stories, laughter, and even a few tears. I watched my grandmother stir pots like a symphony conductor, and every meal felt like a family reunion even if it was just us two. One of her most humble yet flavor-packed dishes? A steaming bowl of sautéed cabbage, smoky sausage, and plump shrimp.
Years later, when I found myself juggling a toddler on one hip and work emails on the other, I reached back into those memories for comfort and flavor. That’s how my Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl was born: a quick, hearty, low-carb dish that satisfies your soul as much as your stomach.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl
The Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl isn’t just a recipe it’s your new weeknight superhero. Fast, fuss-free, and packed with flavor, this one-pan meal delivers protein, veggies, and that smoky-spicy balance that makes your taste buds dance.
Whether you’re keto-curious, cooking low-carb dinners, or just want to use that lonely cabbage sitting in your fridge, this dish is for you.
Plus, let’s be honest: anything that cooks in under 30 minutes and only uses one skillet? That’s a win.
Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add the sliced cabbage. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring often, until it wilts and becomes tender but not mushy.
- Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
- Return the sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes on low heat. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Ingredients for Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced (andouille or kielbasa work great)
- 1 small head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick
How to Make Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Sear the sausage
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss in the sliced sausage and cook until it starts to brown on both sides. This caramelization brings out that smoky depth. Remove sausage and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the veggies
In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil, then sauté the onions until translucent (about 3 minutes). Toss in garlic and cook until fragrant. Now add the cabbage yes, it’ll look like a lot at first, but it wilts beautifully. Stir well and cook for about 6–8 minutes until soft but still with a bite.
Step 3: Add the shrimp
Season your shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
Step 4: Bring it all together
Toss the sausage back into the skillet, stir everything together, and let it all mingle on low heat for another 2 minutes. Optional: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like it hot.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl
- Use large shrimp: They hold up better and stay juicy.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage: You want it tender, not mushy.
- Swap smoked sausage with turkey sausage: For a leaner twist.
- Cajun seasoning is key: But if you’re spice-sensitive, go easy or try a mild blend.
- Meal prep dream: This Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl reheats like a charm.
A Quick Story (Because Food is Memory)
This Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl actually started as a “clear out the fridge” meal on a Wednesday night. My youngest was cranky, the laundry mountain hadn’t moved in days, and I just couldn’t do another drive-thru dinner.
I grabbed what I had: a bag of shrimp from the freezer, half a cabbage from last week’s coleslaw plan, and a smoked sausage that was this close to expiring. Thirty minutes later, my kitchen smelled like Grandma’s house, and even my pickiest eater asked for seconds. That’s when I knew I had to share this.
FAQs About Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl
Can I use frozen shrimp in the Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl?
Yes! Just thaw them first and pat dry so they don’t water down the skillet.
What’s the best cabbage for this bowl?
Green cabbage is classic, but you can also try Napa or even red cabbage for a color pop.
Can I make Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well in a skillet or microwave.
Is this Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein.
Can I use chicken sausage or vegan sausage?
Yes to both. This Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl is super versatile. Just adjust seasoning if your sausage is already spicy.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- 15-Minute Cajun Shrimp Pasta
- Low-Carb Spaghetti Squash Alfredo
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bowl
- One-Pot Chicken Sausage Skillet
Let’s Be Real: You’ll Crave This Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl Again
Life is busy, and dinner shouldn’t be another stressor. That’s why this Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl is such a keeper. It’s a one-skillet wonder with bold flavor, minimal cleanup, and just enough Southern comfort to soothe your soul after a long day.
Whether you’re wrangling homework, juggling work calls, or just too tired to think this dish has your back. So pull out that skillet, crank up the heat, and let the Shrimp & Sausage Cabbage Bowl become part of your weeknight rotation.
I’m the creator of Quicky Girl Recipes, where I share easy air fryer meals, cozy comfort food, and simple recipes made for real life.
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