Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage Recipe

Introduction

This Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage recipe is a perfect easy weeknight dinner that delivers big flavor without the carbs. The combination of spicy sausage and tender shrimp wrapped in cabbage leaves creates a satisfying, low-carb meal. For another comforting dinner option, try this French Onion Pot Roast. It’s a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a hearty keto-friendly meal any night of the week.

Ingredients

This Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage combines spicy, savory flavors wrapped in tender cabbage leaves for a satisfying low-carb meal.

• 2 medium green cabbages
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	25 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

Context: This Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage is about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to streamlined prep and cooking steps.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from a head of cabbage and submerge it in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves become soft and pliable.

Remove the cabbage and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Gently peel off 8-12 large, intact leaves and pat them completely dry with paper towels.

Step 2 — Make the Keto Cajun Filling

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook 8 ounces of sliced keto-friendly sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add 1 pound of raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped), 1 diced bell pepper, and 1/2 diced onion.

Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and the vegetables soften. Stir in 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt to taste. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 3 — Assemble the Stuffed Cabbage

Lay a prepared cabbage leaf flat on a clean work surface. Place about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage filling in the center of the leaf, near the base.

Fold the sides of the leaf inward over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a neat parcel. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4 — Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with avocado oil or olive oil. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish in a single layer.

Pour 1 cup of sugar-free tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes mixed with 1/2 cup of chicken broth over the rolls. This will keep them moist and infuse flavor during baking.

Step 5 — Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the tops of the rolls are lightly browned.

The internal temperature of the filling should reach 145°F (63°C) for the shrimp to be fully cooked. The cabbage leaves should be tender but still hold their shape.

Step 6 — Rest and Serve

Remove the Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the rolls easier to handle.

Serve hot, spooning the extra sauce from the baking dish over the top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired for a bright, fresh finish.

Nutritional Information

Calories	385
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fat	27g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey Sausage — A leaner protein option that maintains the savory flavor while reducing fat content.
• Cauliflower Rice — A low-carb alternative to traditional rice fillings, keeping the dish keto-friendly.
• Nutritional Yeast — Adds a cheesy flavor without dairy, perfect for lactose-free diets.
• Coconut Aminos — A gluten-free, lower-sodium substitute for soy sauce or Cajun seasoning bases.
• Zucchini Noodles — Incorporate spiralized zucchini for added vegetables and reduced carbs.
• Chicken Breast — Swap shrimp for diced chicken breast to vary protein while keeping it low-carb.
• Avocado Oil — Use instead of butter for a dairy-free cooking fat with a high smoke point.
• Homemade Cajun Seasoning — Control sodium and eliminate additives by mixing your own spices.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over cauliflower rice to soak up the flavorful Cajun juices.
• Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette.
• Accompany with roasted asparagus or sautéed zucchini for a complete low-carb meal.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
• Perfect for a festive Mardi Gras dinner or a cozy weekend family meal.
• Plate alongside spicy remoulade or keto-friendly aioli for dipping.

This Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage makes an impressive centerpiece for special occasions while fitting seamlessly into your weekly meal rotation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cabbage leaves that tear during prep. Fix: Blanch whole leaves for 60-90 seconds until pliable but not mushy.
• Mistake: Overcooking shrimp into rubbery texture. Fix: Add raw shrimp to the filling just before rolling to cook perfectly in the oven.
• Mistake: Skipping the sausage rendering step. Fix: Brown sausage first to develop fond and render fat for sautéing aromatics.
• Mistake: Stuffing rolls too tightly, causing bursting. Fix: Use a ¼-cup filling max, leaving 1-inch border for secure folding.
• Mistake: Neglecting Cajun seasoning balance. Fix: Taste filling before rolling and adjust salt/spice levels to preference.
• Mistake: Baking without moisture, leading to dry rolls. Fix: Add ½ cup keto-friendly broth to the baking dish for steam.
• Mistake: Choosing high-carb sausage with fillers. Fix: Verify labels for 0-1g net carbs per serving to maintain ketosis.
• Mistake: Rushing the cabbage core removal. Fix: Use a paring knife to carefully core the cabbage before boiling for intact leaves.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the cauliflower rice base. Fix: Sauté cauliflower with Cajun spices before mixing with proteins.
• Mistake: Serving immediately without resting. Fix: Let stuffed cabbage sit 5 minutes after baking for firm, sliceable rolls.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: For best results, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, or microwave until steaming hot.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.

Conclusion

This Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage is a flavorful, low-carb meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. If you enjoyed this recipe, try our Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe for another delicious twist. We’d love to hear how yours turned out—leave a comment or subscribe for more easy recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed cabbage rolls up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving. This makes the Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage a convenient meal prep option.

What can I use if I don’t have cabbage leaves that are pliable enough to roll?

If your cabbage leaves are too stiff, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until soft and pliable. Then, carefully drain and pat them dry before stuffing. This step ensures your Keto Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage rolls hold together perfectly.

Is this recipe suitable for a strict keto diet?

Yes, this recipe is designed to be keto-friendly. It uses low-carb ingredients like shrimp, sausage, and cabbage, avoiding high-carb fillers. Always check your specific sausage labels to confirm no added sugars are present.