Keto Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Cabbage 

 

Keto Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Cabbage 

A low-carb, high-flavor Southern-inspired dish that combines juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and tender roasted cabbage bowls — perfectly seasoned with Cajun spices for that Louisiana kick! This keto-friendly meal is hearty, satisfying, and full of bold flavor, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love spicy, creamy, and comforting dishes but want to stay keto, this recipe hits all the right notes. The cabbage becomes beautifully tender and slightly sweet as it roasts, perfectly balancing the smoky sausage and juicy shrimp. Each bite delivers layers of flavor: the crunch of veggies, the heat of Cajun spices, and the richness of melted cheese.

Plus, it’s:

• Keto & low-carb (only ~7g net carbs per serving)
• Gluten-free
• Packed with protein & healthy fats
• Full of color, texture, and Louisiana flavor

Ingredients (4 servings)

For the cabbage:

• 2 medium green cabbages
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the filling:

• 12 oz smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced
• ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ cup chopped onion
• ½ cup diced bell peppers (red & green)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil or bacon fat
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar (optional, for gooeyness)

For garnish:

• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

Instructions (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the cabbage bowls

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice off the tops of the cabbages and carefully core out the centers using a sharp knife or spoon — you want to create deep “bowls” to hold the filling.
3. Rub the inside of each cabbage with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the cabbage bowls upright in a baking dish. If they wobble, trim a bit off the bottom so they stand flat.

2. Cook the filling

1. Heat olive oil or bacon fat in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are fragrant and softened.
3. Add the sausage slices, cooking until they’re golden brown and caramelized (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the shrimp to the pan and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for 2–3 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and are no longer translucent.
6. If you’re using cheese, stir in half the shredded cheese now so it melts into the filling for a creamy texture.

3. Stuff the cabbage

1. Spoon the hot shrimp and sausage mixture into each hollowed cabbage.
2. Sprinkle more cheese on top if desired.
3. Cover the baking dish loosely with foil to trap moisture.

4. Bake to perfection

1. Bake for 40–50 minutes, until the cabbage is soft and tender.
2. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes more to let the tops brown and roast slightly.
3. The cabbage edges will become slightly crispy, adding a smoky roasted flavor that pairs perfectly with the Cajun filling.

5. Serve & Enjoy

1. Remove the cabbages from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
3. Slice into wedges or scoop portions directly from the cabbage bowl. Serve hot and enjoy the explosion of Cajun flavor!

Tips for the Best Results

• Use smoked sausage for that authentic Cajun flavor. Andouille works best, but kielbasa or chorizo are great substitutes.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp — they should just turn pink. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
• Add a creamy twist: Mix a spoonful of cream cheese or heavy cream into the filling before stuffing for a rich, velvety texture.
• Meal prep friendly: These stuffed cabbages reheat beautifully. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition (per serving, ¼ stuffed cabbage)

• Calories: ~420
• Fat: ~30g
• Protein: ~28g
• Net Carbs: ~7g

Serving Ideas

• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or keto ranch dressing on top.
• Pair with a side of cauliflower mash or roasted zucchini for a full keto meal.
• Add a sprinkle of Parmesan or hot sauce before serving for an extra flavor boost.