This Keto Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Cabbage recipe is a low-carb twist on a classic comfort dish. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a spicy, smoky Cajun mixture of shrimp, sausage, and cheese, then baked in a light tomato sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and keto-friendly—perfect for meal prep or family dinners.
Prep Time
- Preparation: 25 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
- Total: 1 hour 10 minutes
Equipment
- Large pot (for blanching cabbage)
- Large skillet
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage
- 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled, deveined, chopped
- 8 oz (225 g) smoked sausage, diced (e.g., andouille)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup tomato sauce (sugar-free for keto)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Ingredient Notes
- Cabbage: Large leaves work best for rolling; savoy cabbage is a good alternative.
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work.
- Sausage: Andouille gives authentic Cajun flavor, but any smoked sausage works.
- Cheese: Mozzarella for binding, Parmesan for sharpness.
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage:
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Carefully peel whole cabbage leaves and blanch for 2–3 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside. - Make the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened. Add sausage and cook 3–4 minutes until browned. Stir in chopped shrimp, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook until shrimp turn pink (about 3 minutes). Remove from heat and mix in mozzarella and Parmesan. - Stuff the Cabbage Rolls:
Place about 2–3 tablespoons of filling in each cabbage leaf. Roll tightly, folding in the sides to secure. Arrange rolls seam-side down in a greased baking dish. - Prepare the Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, and olive oil. Pour over the cabbage rolls. - Bake:
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbling and slightly browned. - Serve:
Spoon sauce over cabbage rolls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition Facts (per 2 rolls, approx.)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g (net 6 g)
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
Tips & Variations
- Spicier version: Add extra cayenne or hot sauce.
- Cheesy topping: Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top before baking.
- Make ahead: Assemble rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze uncooked rolls in sauce for up to 2 months; bake from frozen with extra time.
