If you’re on the hunt for a quick, satisfying dinner that brings together crispy bacon, juicy sausage, and tender shrimp with seasoned cabbage, this One Skillet Protein Meal has your name all over it! It’s one of those hero recipes that transforms weeknight cooking from frantic to fun, filling your kitchen with savory aromas and your plate with nourishing, bold flavors. Even better, the one-pan magic means less mess, less fuss, and more time to savor every bite—all while meeting your protein goals in the most delicious way possible.

One Skillet Protein Meal Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All of the ingredients for this One Skillet Protein Meal are wonderfully straightforward, but each one plays a starring role—bringing fresh flavor, fantastic texture, or vibrant color to your dinner table. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll love it:

Bacon: Chopped and pan-crisped, bacon adds salty depth and a crave-worthy crunch.
Large shrimp: Plump, sweet, and full of protein—they soak up all those savory seasonings.
Kielbasa or smoked sausage: Sliced and browned for smoky flavor and hearty bites in every forkful.
Cabbage: Thin strips melt into the skillet, soaking up juices while adding a pleasant crunch.
Yellow onion: Gently sweet and aromatic, it rounds out the savory vibes.
Garlic: Brings a punch of zest and warmth to wake up the whole pan.
Seafood seasoning: Gives shrimp a pop of traditional coastal flavor (Old Bay works great!).
Smoked paprika: For a subtle, smoky undertone and that appetizing color.
Black pepper: Adds just enough heat and sharpness to balance the richness.
Salt: Heightens flavors and complements all your proteins.
Dried oregano: A gentle, woodsy herb accent that pairs perfectly with the sausage and veggies.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle, lingering kick if you like things spicy.
Olive oil: Helps season the shrimp and gives a touch of fruity richness.
Butter: Divided and stirred in at the right times for an irresistible glossy finish.
Apple cider vinegar: A splash at the end to brighten everything up and balance the richness.

How to Make One Skillet Protein Meal

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by tossing your peeled, deveined shrimp in a small bowl with olive oil and seafood seasoning. This quick marinade infuses the shrimp with maximum flavor before they even hit the pan, setting the tone for a vibrant One Skillet Protein Meal.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

Place your chopped bacon in a large skillet heated over medium. Let it sizzle for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches that golden, crispy perfection. Once it’s ready, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate—but leave that liquid gold (bacon grease) in the skillet!

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

Next, lay your sausage slices in the hot bacon grease and cook each side for about 2–3 minutes. You’re after delicious browning and a bit of caramelized savor on each round. Once browned, remove them and set aside with the bacon.

Step 4: Sear the Shrimp

Add your seasoned shrimp to the skillet in an even layer. Cook for 3 minutes on the first side, flip, and cook for another 3 minutes. Watch for that classic ‘C’ shape—your sign they’re cooked perfectly and ready to rest.

Step 5: Build the Flavor Base

Drop in 1 tablespoon of butter, then toss in your chopped onion, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, letting the onions mellow and the seasonings bloom. Finish with the garlic for 30 seconds—just until it’s fragrant but not browned.

Step 6: Wilt and Season the Cabbage

Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and a splash of apple cider vinegar, swirling to melt and deglaze the pan. Then, add your cabbage strips. Stir and toss so every piece is coated in the buttery, fragrant pan juices.

Step 7: Combine and Finish

Sauté the cabbage for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still lively. Return the cooked bacon, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Fold everything together gently, warming through before serving immediately—your One Skillet Protein Meal is ready to wow!

How to Serve One Skillet Protein Meal

Garnishes

Finish your One Skillet Protein Meal with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and herbal freshness. A squeeze of lemon right before serving can also brighten up the dish and make those savory flavors pop. If you love a little heat, a dusting of extra red pepper flakes does the trick!

Side Dishes

Though this meal is one-pan perfection all on its own, you can serve it over a bed of sautéed greens or alongside a crisp garden salad to keep things extra light and fresh. For those who don’t mind a few carbs, roasted potatoes or simple steamed rice make excellent partners, too.

Creative Ways to Present

One of the best things about this One Skillet Protein Meal is its versatility—spoon it into lettuce cups for a low-carb lettuce wrap, use it to stuff into baked sweet potatoes, or pile it on top of cauliflower mash for a comforting twist. It also shines as a hearty meal prep option, packed into containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your One Skillet Protein Meal into airtight containers and refrigerate. The flavors meld and deepen with a little time, making leftovers even more scrumptious. Enjoy within 3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked meal in freezer-safe bags or containers—just be aware that shrimp and cabbage can soften a tad once thawed. Portion it out for easy weeknight dinners; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat the dish gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until everything is hot. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works in short 30-second bursts. Add a small splash of water or broth if the dish looks dry to revive its sauciness.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of sausage or protein?

Absolutely! While kielbasa gives a smoky depth, you can swap in andouille, chorizo, or even chicken sausage. The One Skillet Protein Meal is all about flexibility—use your favorite protein combo.

How do I keep the shrimp from turning rubbery?

The secret is quick, high heat cooking and pulling them as soon as they turn pink and curl into a ‘C’ shape. Overcooked shrimp become tough fast, so keep an eye on the pan!

Is this One Skillet Protein Meal suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It keeps well in airtight containers, and the medley of flavors only gets better over a couple of days. Just be sure not to overcook the shrimp initially if you plan on reheating portions later.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Of course! Throw in bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or even mushrooms for bonus nutrients and color. Just adjust the cook time based on how tender you like your veggies.

What if I want to make it spicier?

That’s easy—add more crushed red pepper flakes or toss in sliced jalapeños along with the onions. You can also opt for a spicy sausage for an extra kick in your One Skillet Protein Meal.

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to whip up this colorful, boldly-flavored One Skillet Protein Meal. Whether you serve it straight from the pan for a cozy night in or portion it out for the week ahead, it’s a surefire way to bring big flavor and protein power to your table—with barely any cleanup. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite in your rotation!