Gumbo Cabbage Recipe (Cajun Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage)

5 from 2 votes
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Quick Summary

Bold, spicy, and packed with smoky flavor, this Cajun Cabbage with Shrimp and Andouille Sausage is a one-skillet wonder that's both hearty and comforting. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this soul-warming dish combines tender cabbage, crispy sausage, juicy shrimp, and a medley of Cajun seasonings that deliver serious flavor in every bite.

Category: 30 Minute Meals, Comfort Food Classics, Healthy Recipes & Meal Prep | By: Matt Price, Mr. Make It Happen

Cajun food runs deep in how I cook — the bold seasoning, the layered flavors, the one-pot simplicity. This cajun cabbage with shrimp and sausage is one of those dishes I threw together on a whim years ago and it immediately became a staple. Smoky andouille, juicy shrimp, tender cabbage, and enough Cajun heat to keep you coming back for seconds. It’s fast, it’s flavorful, and it’s one of the most popular recipes on my site for a reason.


Cajun Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage Recipe by Mr. Make It Happen
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What Is Gumbo Cabbage?

Gumbo cabbage is a Cajun-inspired one-skillet dish that combines tender cabbage with smoky andouille sausage, juicy shrimp, and bold seasonings. Looking for a dish that combines the heartiness of cabbage with the bold, smoky, and spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine? Look no further than this Cajun Cabbage with Andouille Sausage and Shrimp! It's packed with smoky sausage, tender cabbage, vibrant bell peppers, and shrimp, all tossed in a flavorful blend of Cajun spices and aromatic seasonings.

Why You'll Love This Cajun Cabbage Recipe

  • Southern soul in a skillet: It’s got everything — bold spice, tender veggies, smoky sausage, and juicy shrimp.
  • Fast & flavorful: Ready in under 45 minutes.
  • Budget-friendly ingredients: Cabbage and sausage are affordable but packed with taste.
  • Great for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day.
  • Minimal cleanup: One skillet is all you need.

EQUIPMENT

Recommended Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Dutch Oven
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Tongs
  • Slotted Spoon

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2pc. Hybrid Skillet

Ingredients

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Proteins & Produce

  • 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced into rounds or half moons
  • 1 large head of cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons garlic paste (or 4 cloves garlic, minced)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Oils & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning (AP seasoning)
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon buttery garlic pepper seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Liquids

  • ¼ cup chicken broth (or water)

Cajun Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prep All Ingredients

Start by slicing the sausage, chopping the onion and bell pepper, and shredding the cabbage. If using fresh garlic, mince it finely.

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Craving Cajun Cabbage? 1 Skillet full. Sensational Flavors - cCSS Cajun Cabbage With Shrimp Sausage 4

Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving tails on for presentation if desired. Pat shrimp dry and season lightly with Cajun seasoning.

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Cajun Seasoning

Step 2 – Brown the Sausage and Shrimp

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the andouille sausage and sear for 5–7 minutes until browned and crispy.

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Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

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In the same skillet, cook uncovered for 4–5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.

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Craving Cajun Cabbage? 1 Skillet full. Sensational Flavors - cCSS Cajun Cabbage With Shrimp Sausage 9

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Step 3 – Sauté the Veggies

Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic paste and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

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Step 4 – Season the Mix

Sprinkle in the AP seasoning, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, buttery garlic pepper seasoning, and chicken bouillon powder. Stir to coat the vegetables and let the spices bloom for 1–2 minutes.

Step 5 – Add Cabbage and Broth

Add shredded cabbage and stir well to combine. Pour in chicken broth and mix again.

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Cover the skillet and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should be tender and slightly caramelized but not mushy.

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Step 6 – Return Sausage and Add Shrimp

Add the seared sausage back into the pan. Nestle the shrimp into the cabbage mixture. Add a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Step 7 – Taste, Adjust, and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasonings if needed — add more Cajun seasoning for extra heat. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

This Cajun Cabbage with Andouille Sausage and Shrimp is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s packed with bold, southern-inspired flavors.

From the smoky sausage to the tender cabbage and juicy shrimp, every bite is a satisfying explosion of Cajun goodness. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish will undoubtedly bring some spice and excitement to your dinner table. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Cajun Cabbage:

  • Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or swap out some of the spicier ingredients. If you like it hot, feel free to add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce at the end.
  • Make It a Meal: This dish can stand alone as a complete meal, but if you’d like to serve it with something else, try pairing it with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad.
  • Use Leftovers: If you have any leftover cabbage, sausage, or shrimp, this dish makes for an excellent next-day lunch. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Add More Veggies: Want to boost your nutrition? You can add more vegetables like zucchini, okra, or even tomatoes to make the dish more colorful and hearty.

Cajun-Inspired Recipes


Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Cabbage

  • Cut the cabbage into large chunks so it holds up during cooking and doesn’t turn mushy.
  • Don’t skip browning the sausage first. That caramelization adds a smoky depth you can’t get any other way.
  • Add the shrimp last so they stay tender and juicy instead of turning rubbery.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. Cabbage absorbs a lot of flavor, so you may need an extra pinch of Cajun seasoning.

What to Serve with Cajun Cabbage

This dish is a full meal on its own, but if you want to round things out, serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or buttery garlic rice to soak up all that flavorful broth. Cornbread on the side is another classic pairing that brings a touch of sweetness to balance the heat. For something lighter, a simple cucumber and tomato salad works perfectly. And if you really want to go all out, pair it with a cold glass of sweet tea or a crisp lager.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun cabbage with shrimp and sausage is one of those recipes that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Bold Cajun seasoning, smoky sausage, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked cabbage all come together in one pot for a meal that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers every single time. Make it once and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cajun cabbage?

Cajun cabbage is a hearty one-skillet dish inspired by Southern and Creole cooking. It combines sautéed cabbage with smoked sausage, shrimp, and bold Cajun seasonings for a quick, flavorful meal. Think of it as a deconstructed gumbo with all the flavor and none of the long cook time.

What kind of sausage works best for cajun cabbage with shrimp and sausage?

Andouille sausage is the classic choice because its smoky, spicy flavor pairs perfectly with the Cajun seasoning profile. If you cannot find andouille, smoked kielbasa or any quality smoked sausage will work well. Slice it on a bias for more surface area and better browning.

Can you make cajun cabbage ahead of time?

You can prep and cook the cabbage and sausage portion ahead of time, but add the shrimp fresh when reheating so they do not become rubbery. Store the base in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet over medium heat before tossing in freshly cooked shrimp.

Is cajun cabbage healthy?

Yes, this is a surprisingly nutritious meal. Cabbage is low in calories and packed with fiber and vitamins, while shrimp adds lean protein. By using smoked sausage in moderation and loading up on the vegetables, you get a balanced, satisfying dish that fits well into a healthy eating plan.

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Cajun Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage Recipe by Mr. Make It Happen

Cajun Cabbage w/ Shrimp and Sausage

Matt Price
This one-pot dish is a perfect mix of comfort food and Southern flair, and it’s easy enough to prepare for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests at a family gathering. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering Cajun-inspired recipe that’s sure to make your taste buds dance!
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Seafood Recipes
Cuisine South American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 639 kcal

Equipment

Large Skillet or Dutch Oven
Knife
Cutting Board
Tongs
Slotted Spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb andouille sausage sliced into rounds or half moons
  • 1 large head of cabbage shredded (about 6 cups)
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 1 bell pepper chopped (red, green, or yellow)
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning AP seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon buttery garlic pepper seasoning or regular garlic pepper seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
  • 2 tablespoons garlic paste or 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ingredients:

  • Start by prepping your ingredients.
  • Slice the andouille sausage into rounds, chop the onion and bell pepper, and shred the cabbage.
  • If you're using fresh garlic, mince it finely or use garlic paste for an easy shortcut.
  • Also, peel and devein your shrimp, leaving the tails on if you prefer a more elegant presentation.
  • Chop the veggies to your desired size - I prefer mine to be similar in size to my cabbage.

Sauté the Andouille Sausage:

  • In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Add the sliced andouille sausage and sauté until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Once browned, remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
  • Season your shrimp with Cajun Seasoning.
  • Once the sausage is perfectly seared and golden brown - remove it with a slotted spoon.
  • Add the srhimp and cook in the sausage fat. Once the shrimp are mostly cooked, remove them and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables:

  • In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or a little more if needed).
  • Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and slightly caramelized.
  • Add the garlic paste (or minced garlic) and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Season the Dish:

  • Sprinkle in the AP seasoning, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, buttery garlic pepper seasoning, and chicken bouillon powder.
  • Stir to coat the vegetables and let the spices bloom in the heat for 1-2 minutes. This will infuse the entire dish with flavor.

Add the Cabbage:

  • Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the spices and vegetables. The cabbage will wilt down as it cooks, so don’t worry if it looks like a lot at first.
  • Pour in ¼ cup of chicken broth (or water) to help create some steam and soften the cabbage.
  • Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • The cabbage should become tender and slightly caramelized, but still have a bit of bite.

Add the Shrimp and Andouille Sausage:

  • Once the cabbage is tender, add the cooked andouille sausage back into the skillet.
  • Then, add the shrimp, making sure to nestle them into the cabbage mixture.
  • Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the shrimp turns pink and is fully cooked through.
  • If necessary, add a splash more broth or water to prevent sticking and keep everything moist.

Taste and Adjust:

  • Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  • You may want to add more Cajun seasoning or salt, depending on your preferences. For extra heat, feel free to sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Serve and Garnish:

  • Once the shrimp is cooked through and the flavors have melded together, remove the skillet from the heat.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

Tips for Perfect Cajun Cabbage:
  • Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or swap out some of the spicier ingredients. If you like it hot, feel free to add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce at the end.
  • Make It a Meal: This dish can stand alone as a complete meal, but if you’d like to serve it with something else, try pairing it with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad.
  • Use Leftovers: If you have any leftover cabbage, sausage, or shrimp, this dish makes for an excellent next-day lunch. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Add More Veggies: Want to boost the nutrition? You can add more vegetables like zucchini, okra, or even tomatoes to make the dish more colorful and hearty.

Nutrition

Calories: 639kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 49gFat: 39gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 18gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 280mgSodium: 1280mgPotassium: 1337mgFiber: 11gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 2168IUVitamin C: 113mgCalcium: 321mgIron: 7mg
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About Matt Price

Matt Price is a chef, restaurant owner, and food entrepreneur known online as Mr. Make It Happen. He is the owner of Fraiche Restaurant in Washington, D.C., an award-winning restaurant recognized with OpenTable’s Diners’ Choice Award, where he serves elevated comfort food like his famous Garlic Noodles, Oxtail Meatballs, Fried Whole Snapper, and She Crab Soup. Matt is also the founder of Make It Happen Media, one of the fastest-growing food brands on the internet, with over 4 million followers across platforms. His line of signature seasonings and cookware is sold nationwide. Every recipe on this site is developed, tested, and photographed by Matt, drawing on his real-world restaurant experience and years of professional recipe development.

5 from 2 votes (1 rating without comment)

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1 Comment

  1. Linda says:

    5 stars
    Thanks for recipe this is my favorite meal to make when cooking for a few people and it is very nutritious and Cabbage is another good green veggie.