Name: Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 large green cabbage, chopped; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 slices of bacon, chopped; 2 tbsp butter; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; Fresh parsley for garnish

Picture this: a sizzling skillet filled with tender, caramelized cabbage, juicy shrimp, and crispy bacon, all brought together with a rich blend of spices and a tangy hint of apple cider vinegar. Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp is a culinary masterpiece that combines bold flavors, simple ingredients, and a touch of Southern comfort. Whether served as a hearty main dish or a flavorful side, this versatile recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special family gatherings. Ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of Southern charm? Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients

What You’ll Need

To craft this savory Southern delight, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Green cabbage: The star of the show! Its mild flavor and tender texture soak up the rich, smoky goodness of bacon and shrimp.
Large shrimp: Plump and juicy, shrimp add a delicate seafood sweetness to the dish.
Bacon: Crispy, salty, and smoky, bacon lays the foundation of flavor.
Onion: Sweet and aromatic, sautéed onion adds depth to every bite.
Butter: This creamy ingredient enriches the dish and helps caramelize the cabbage.
Garlic: Minced and aromatic, garlic infuses the dish with its unmistakable savory kick.
Paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper: A bold seasoning blend for warmth, spice, and balance.
Apple cider vinegar: A splash of tanginess to brighten the flavors and cut through the richness.
Fresh parsley: A vibrant garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, from the crispy bacon to the tender cabbage.

Substitutions and Additions

Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few ways to customize the recipe to suit your taste:

Healthier Bacon Alternative: Replace traditional bacon with turkey bacon to reduce fat content while maintaining a smoky essence.
Add Sausage: Smoked sausage or andouille sausage adds a robust, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.
Boost the Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness, or add shredded carrots for a hint of natural sweetness.
Adjust the Heat: Swap cayenne pepper for chili flakes or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder dish. For those who love spice, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the heat to your liking.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp

Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, a little prep work will ensure a smooth and enjoyable process:

Preheat your skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. This helps the bacon cook evenly and ensures the dish comes together quickly.
Organize your ingredients: Chop your cabbage into bite-sized pieces, peel and devein the shrimp, and dice the onion. Having everything ready to go makes the cooking process stress-free and seamless.

Cooking the Bacon and Shrimp

This step is where the magic begins. The sizzling bacon and succulent shrimp create a savory base that sets the tone for the entire dish.

Cook the bacon: Place the diced bacon into the preheated skillet. Let it cook until crispy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
Sauté the shrimp: Toss the shrimp with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and paprika. Add them to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside with the bacon.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Now it’s time to build layers of flavor with aromatic vegetables.

Melt the butter: Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, letting it melt into the remaining bacon fat. This creates a rich base for the vegetables.
Sauté onions and garlic: Toss in the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, allowing its fragrance to bloom.

Stir-Frying the Cabbage

The cabbage is the heart of this recipe, and this step ensures it becomes tender and flavorful.

Add the cabbage: Toss the chopped cabbage into the skillet, stirring to coat it in the butter and bacon fat.
Season and cook: Sprinkle paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like heat), salt, and black pepper over the cabbage. Cover the skillet and let the cabbage cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should wilt and caramelize slightly, developing a natural sweetness.

Final Assembly

It’s time to bring all the components together into one delicious dish.

Combine ingredients: Return the cooked bacon and shrimp to the skillet with the cabbage. Stir gently to distribute everything evenly.
Add apple cider vinegar: Drizzle a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar over the mixture. This adds a tangy brightness that balances the rich flavors.
Finish cooking: Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Occasions and Pairings

Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp is a versatile dish that fits almost any occasion:

Serve as a main dish: Pair with fluffy cornbread or a side of steamed rice for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Use as a side dish: It complements hearty proteins like pork chops, fried chicken, or grilled fish beautifully.
Perfect for gatherings: Serve at family dinners, casual barbecues, or even holiday feasts for a touch of Southern charm.

Presentation Ideas

Make your dish as visually appealing as it is delicious:

Garnish with parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of green that brightens the plate.
Rustic charm: Serve the dish straight from the cast-iron skillet for a rustic, Southern-inspired presentation that keeps it warm and inviting.
Family-style serving: Pair with a big bowl of rice or cornbread on the side, encouraging everyone to dig in and share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp isn’t just another weeknight dinner—it’s a dish that promises to delight your taste buds, wow your family, and simplify your cooking routine. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

Unique Blend of Flavors
The smoky, crispy bacon pairs beautifully with tender, caramelized cabbage, while the succulent shrimp adds a delicate sweetness. Combined with a dash of paprika, cayenne pepper, and a splash of tangy apple cider vinegar, each bite delivers a perfectly balanced medley of bold, Southern-inspired flavors.
Simple One-Skillet Preparation
Forget about a sink full of dishes! This recipe comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze. It’s the perfect option for busy nights when you want a hearty, homemade meal without the hassle.
Crowd-Pleasing and Keto-Friendly
Packed with protein, low in carbs, and full of flavor, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s a hit with picky eaters, shrimp lovers, and even those following keto or low-carb diets. Serve it at a gathering, and you’ll have everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe!

Recipe FAQ

Cooking Tips

Q: How long does it take to fry cabbage?
A: Cooking cabbage until it’s tender and slightly caramelized takes about 10-15 minutes. The key is to stir occasionally and let it develop a slight golden-brown color for that signature flavor.

Q: Do you need to soak cabbage before cooking?
A: Soaking cabbage is optional and not necessary for this recipe. However, if you want to reduce its natural bitterness, you can soak it in cold water for 20 minutes before chopping.

Troubleshooting

Q: What if my shrimp turn out overcooked?
A: Shrimp cook quickly, so limit their cooking time to 2 minutes per side. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture.

Q: There’s too much liquid in my skillet—what should I do?
A: Cabbage releases moisture as it cooks. If your skillet has too much liquid, cook uncovered for a few minutes to let the excess evaporate. This will also enhance the caramelization process.

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep your dish fresh:

Refrigeration: Store the fried cabbage and shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Want to save time? Prep ahead!

Chop the cabbage, onion, and garlic in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Pre-cook the bacon and shrimp, then refrigerate them separately.
When you’re ready to cook, everything will be prepped and ready to toss into the skillet.

Reheating and Serving

Bring your leftovers back to life with these simple reheating tips:

On the Stovetop: Heat the cabbage and shrimp in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and heat evenly.
In the Microwave: Transfer the dish to a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, you may also like:

Delicious Cabbage Casserole Recipe: A hearty, baked cabbage dish perfect for comfort food cravings.
New Orleans Style Red Beans and Rice: A Southern classic to pair with your cabbage.
Grilled Shrimp Salad Recipe: A light and flavorful shrimp salad that complements the boldness of fried cabbage.
Easy Honey Butter Skillet Corn: Sweet and savory corn for the perfect side.

Conclusion

Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp is more than just a recipe—it’s an invitation to savor the warmth and boldness of Southern cooking. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones at a family dinner or preparing it as a quick weeknight meal, this dish delivers comforting flavors and effortless charm every time.

So why wait? Grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and experience the magic of this delightful Southern classic. You’ll fall in love with its smoky aromas, tender cabbage, and juicy shrimp. Serve it up with a side of cornbread or rice, and let the compliments roll in.