Introduction
Keto Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Cabbage is a flavorful, low-carb dish that brings together smoky spices, tender seafood, and hearty sausage in a satisfying yet wholesome way. This recipe is ideal for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle who still craves comforting, well-seasoned meals. I first prepared this dish when I wanted something warming and filling without relying on grains or starches, and it exceeded expectations. The cabbage leaves soften beautifully and act as the perfect vessel for the bold Cajun-inspired filling. What makes this recipe stand out is the balance of flavors. The shrimp add lightness, the sausage brings richness, and the spices tie everything together without overpowering the dish. It works equally well as a family dinner or a meal-prep option for the week. If you enjoy robust seasoning and nourishing ingredients, this stuffed cabbage recipe delivers both comfort and nutrition in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is keto-friendly, protein-rich, and full of bold Cajun flavor. It is satisfying without being heavy, naturally gluten-free, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.
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Keto Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Cabbage – Bold, Low-Carb Comfort Food
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Diabetic
Description
Keto Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Cabbage is a bold, low-carb dish featuring tender cabbage leaves filled with spicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp, sausage, and creamy goodness—perfect for a satisfying keto-friendly meal.
Ingredients
- 1 large head green cabbage
- 8 oz raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 8 oz smoked sausage, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Carefully remove cabbage leaves and blanch for 2–3 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sausage and cook until lightly browned.
- Add onion and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
- Add chopped shrimp and cook until just pink.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir until combined. Remove from heat.
- Mix in shredded cheese.
- Spoon filling onto cabbage leaves and roll tightly.
- Place stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning for desired spice level.
- Can be prepared ahead and reheated.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Green cabbage serves as the low-carb wrapper, becoming tender and slightly sweet once cooked.
Raw shrimp adds lean protein and a delicate texture that balances the richness of the sausage.
Andouille sausage brings smoky depth and authentic Cajun flavor to the filling.
Cauliflower rice replaces traditional grains, keeping the dish keto-friendly while adding volume.
Yellow onion enhances the filling with mild sweetness and aroma.
Garlic cloves provide a savory base that complements the Cajun seasoning.
Olive oil helps sauté the ingredients evenly and adds subtle richness.
Cajun seasoning delivers heat, smokiness, and complexity in one blend.
Paprika reinforces the smoky notes and deepens color.
Salt balances and enhances all the flavors.
Black pepper adds mild heat and sharpness.
Chicken broth keeps the cabbage rolls moist while baking.
Directions
Begin by preparing the cabbage. Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil and carefully remove several outer cabbage leaves. Blanch them briefly until softened, then set aside to cool. Trim the thick center rib slightly to make rolling easier.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sausage and cook until lightly browned. Stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened. Add the cauliflower rice, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to combine.
Chop the shrimp into small pieces and fold them into the mixture, cooking just until they turn opaque. Remove from heat.
Place a spoonful of filling onto each cabbage leaf, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour chicken broth around the rolls to keep them moist. Cover and bake until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked. Allow to rest briefly before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe yields six servings. Preparation takes approximately 25 minutes, with a cooking time of about 35 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Variations and Customizations
This recipe is highly adaptable. You can substitute smoked sausage or chorizo for a different flavor profile. If you prefer less heat, reduce the Cajun seasoning and add herbs such as thyme or parsley. For added richness, a small amount of cream cheese can be folded into the filling. You can also prepare this dish using savoy cabbage for a more delicate texture. For extra spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper works well. Each variation maintains the low-carb integrity of the dish while allowing you to tailor it to your preferences.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish is low in carbohydrates and high in protein and healthy fats, making it suitable for ketogenic and low-carb diets. It is naturally gluten-free and grain-free.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Soften the cabbage properly
Blanching the leaves makes rolling easier and prevents tearing.
Do not overcook the shrimp
Shrimp cooks quickly and should only be heated until just opaque.
Taste the filling before rolling
Adjust seasoning early to ensure balanced flavor.
FAQs
Is this recipe spicy?
It has moderate heat, but spice levels can be adjusted easily.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw and drain thoroughly before using.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the rolls and refrigerate before baking.
What can I serve with this dish?
A simple green salad or sautéed vegetables pair well.
Can I freeze stuffed cabbage?
Yes, freeze after baking and cooling completely.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, it contains no dairy.
Can I use red cabbage?
Green cabbage is recommended for texture and flexibility.
How do I prevent the rolls from drying out?
Using broth and covering during baking helps retain moisture.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low until cabbage is tender.
Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well and holds its texture.
Conclusion
Keto Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Cabbage is a bold, nourishing dish that proves low-carb meals can be both comforting and exciting. Packed with flavor and simple to prepare, it is a reliable recipe that fits seamlessly into a ketogenic lifestyle while still delivering satisfying results.
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