There’s nothing better than a delicious, satisfying meal that comes together in a single pan. This Shrimp and Sausage Cabbage Bowl is my absolute go-to for a quick, delicious, and deeply satisfying meal. It’s a simple recipe that takes minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. The combination of savory smoked sausage, tender cabbage, sweet bell peppers, and juicy shrimp is simply irresistible.

I’ve been on a mission to find the best one-pan dinners, and this one is at the top of my list. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the best part is that all the ingredients cook together in a single skillet, which means minimal cleanup and more time to enjoy your dinner. The process of browning the sausage first and then letting everything simmer together is what makes this dish so incredibly flavorful.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. The savory smoked sausage pairs beautifully with the earthy cabbage and sweet bell peppers. The chicken broth creates a flavorful liquid that the cabbage and vegetables cook in, making them wonderfully tender. The shrimp are added at the end, so they cook quickly and stay juicy. It’s a complete meal in a single pan, which means minimal cleanup and more time to enjoy your dinner. It’s a fantastic recipe for a weeknight because it’s so easy to throw together, but it feels special enough to serve on a weekend.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Paprika or Cajun seasoning (optional)

Swaps and Notes

• Sausage: I prefer smoked sausage for this, but you could also use kielbasa or even a spicy andouille sausage for a kick.
• Shrimp: Use large, raw shrimp for the best results. You can buy them already peeled and deveined to save time.
• Cabbage: A small head of green cabbage is perfect for this, but you can also use a bag of pre-shredded cabbage to save time.
• Veggies: The onion and bell pepper are a great base, but feel free to add other vegetables like sliced carrots or mushrooms.
• Seasoning: A good quality Cajun seasoning is perfect for this, but you can also use a simple blend of paprika, salt, and pepper.

How to Make Shrimp and Sausage Cabbage Bowl

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped cabbage, diced onion, and bell pepper to the skillet, stirring occasionally. Cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Add the Garlic and Broth: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the liquid is reduced slightly.
4. Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.
5. Serve: Serve the shrimp and sausage cabbage mixture over the cooked rice.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly. As soon as it turns pink, it’s done. Overcooking will make it tough and rubbery.
• Cook the Sausage First: Cooking the sausage first adds a deep, savory flavor to the skillet that is the foundation of the entire dish.
• Use a Large Skillet: A large skillet or Dutch oven is perfect for this recipe, as it gives you plenty of room to cook all the ingredients evenly.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This cabbage bowl is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad. For a great Southern-inspired meal, you could serve it with my Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo or my Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftovers are delicious! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or warm the entire dish on the stovetop until heated through.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you’re a fan of easy, delicious, and one-pan meals, you’ll want to check out some of these other favorites:

• For a great one-pan dinner, my Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is always a winner.
• If you need to feed a crowd fast, these Sheet Pan Quesadillas are a lifesaver.
• For a lazy Sunday, these Easy Turkey Wings are a must-try.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp and Sausage Cabbage Bowl is a recipe that proves a great meal doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a simple, delicious, and deeply satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner. I hope it becomes a new favorite in your home.

If you make this dish, I’d love to hear about it! What’s your go-to one-pan dinner? Let me know in the comments below.