One-Skillet Protein-Rich Meal (Printable Format)

A hearty skillet meal featuring crispy bacon, kielbasa, and shrimp with tender cabbage. Low-carb, full of flavor, and ready in just 40 minutes!

# What You'll Gather:

→ Proteins

01 - 5 slices of bacon, chopped
02 - 10-12 shrimp, tail off & deveined
03 - 1 link of kielbasa or smoked sausage, cut into 1/2 inch pieces

→ Vegetables

04 - 3 cups cabbage, cut in thin strips
05 - 1/2 cup yellow onions, chopped
06 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Seasonings

07 - 1 tsp seafood seasoning
08 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
10 - 1/4 tsp salt
11 - 1/2 tsp oregano
12 - Pinch of crushed red pepper (optional)

→ Fats & Liquids

13 - 1 tbsp olive oil
14 - 2 tbsp butter, divided
15 - 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - In a small bowl, drizzle the shrimp with olive oil and sprinkle with seafood seasoning. Toss to coat evenly and set aside to marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the flavorful bacon grease in the skillet.
03 - Add the sliced kielbasa or smoked sausage to the hot bacon grease. Cook until nicely browned on each side, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
04 - In the same skillet, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for approximately 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and form a 'C' shape, indicating they're perfectly cooked. Be careful not to overcook! Remove and set aside with the other proteins.
05 - Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet, followed by the chopped onions, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper (if using). Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
06 - Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and apple cider vinegar to the skillet, allowing them to melt and incorporate with the onion mixture. Add the sliced cabbage and toss well to coat with all the flavorful fats and seasonings.
07 - Cook the cabbage for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's tender but still has a slight bite. Return the bacon, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet and stir gently to combine everything and reheat the proteins. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, flavorful one-skillet meal!

# Important Tips:

01 - The key to this dish is cooking each component separately to develop the best flavor and texture.
02 - Don't overcook the shrimp - they should just turn pink and form a 'C' shape, not a tight 'O' which indicates they're overcooked.
03 - The bacon grease adds tremendous flavor, but you can drain some if it seems excessive.
04 - This is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, perfect for a satisfying meal without the need for rice or pasta.
05 - Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in a skillet.

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