Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage has been my go-to for a weeknight dinner that feels special, yet is surprisingly simple. I first tried making stuffed cabbage years ago, and it was a revelation! The aroma of the smoky sausage and spicy shrimp filling the kitchen is just incredible. This low carb Cajun shrimp sausage version is even better, packed with flavor and perfect for a satisfying Cajun shrimp sausage keto meal. If you’re looking for an easy keto Cajun shrimp sausage that’s both healthy and delicious, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage
Get ready to fall in love with this fantastic dish! It’s a flavor explosion that will satisfy your cravings without derailing your diet.
- Incredible Taste: A perfect blend of spicy, savory, and smoky flavors that dance on your palate.
- Quick Prep: With just 20 minutes of prep, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Health Benefits: This keto friendly Cajun shrimp sausage is packed with protein and low in carbs, supporting your health goals.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common ingredients that won’t break the bank, making it a great value.
- Family Approved: Even picky eaters will enjoy this delicious shrimp and sausage keto recipe, a comforting and hearty meal.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite low-carb vegetables or spice levels.
- Satisfying: Hearty enough to keep you full and satisfied for hours.
Ingredients for Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage Stuffed Cabbage
Gathering the right Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage ingredients is key to unlocking this dish’s full flavor potential. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 medium green cabbages – These form the perfect edible bowls for our filling.
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter – For preparing the cabbage insides.
- Salt & pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- 12 oz smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced – Choose a good quality sausage for maximum flavor.
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled & deveined – Adds a lovely seafood element.
- ½ cup onion, chopped – Provides a sweet aromatic base.
- ½ cup bell peppers (red & green), diced – Adds color, sweetness, and texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that pungent, savory kick.
- 2 tbsp olive oil or bacon fat – Bacon fat adds an extra layer of smoky richness!
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning – The heart of our flavor profile.
- ½ tsp paprika – For warmth and color.
- ½ tsp garlic powder – Enhances the garlic notes.
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) – For a touch of heat.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional) – Melts beautifully for a cheesy topping.
How to Make Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage Stuffed Cabbage
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for achieving tender cabbage and perfectly cooked fillings.
- Step 2: Prepare your cabbage bowls. Slice off the tops of the 2 medium green cabbages and carefully use a knife to core out the centers, creating a cavity for the stuffing.
- Step 3: Season the cabbage insides. Rub the insides of the hollowed cabbage with 2 tbsp olive oil or butter, then season generously with salt & pepper, to taste. Place them upright in a baking dish.
- Step 4: Start the filling. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil or bacon fat over medium heat. Bacon fat adds an incredible depth of flavor!
- Step 5: Sauté the aromatics. Add the ½ cup onion, chopped, and ½ cup bell peppers (red & green), diced, along with the 2 cloves garlic, minced. Cook until they start to soften and release their sweet fragrance, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 6: Brown the sausage. Add the 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced, to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and slightly crispy around the edges.
- Step 7: Cook the shrimp and season. Toss in the ½ lb shrimp, peeled & deveined. Now for the flavor magic: season with 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional), and more salt and pepper.
- Step 8: Finish the filling. Cook just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, which only takes about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them! This is how to make keto Cajun shrimp sausage that’s juicy and flavorful.
- Step 9: Stuff the cabbage. Carefully spoon the delicious shrimp and sausage mixture into each prepared cabbage bowl, packing it in gently.
- Step 10: Add cheese (optional). If you’re using it, sprinkle the ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the top of the filling.
- Step 11: Bake until tender. Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 40–50 minutes. You want the cabbage leaves to become tender and infused with flavor.
- Step 12: Roast for a final touch. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This helps the cheese melt and brown, and gives the cabbage a lovely roasted finish. This quick keto Cajun shrimp sausage is almost ready!
- Step 13: Garnish and serve. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of freshness. Slice into wedges and serve your amazing keto Cajun shrimp sausage stuffed cabbage hot.
Pro Tips for the Best Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage
Want to elevate your stuffed cabbage game? These little tricks will ensure your keto Cajun shrimp sausage is absolutely perfect every time. They’re simple, but they make a big difference!
- Use good quality smoked sausage; an authentic andouille really brings that Cajun flavor home.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp! They cook quickly, and overcooked shrimp get tough. Add them right at the end of the filling prep.
- For extra flavor, consider using bacon fat instead of olive oil for sautéing the vegetables and sausage.
- If you want a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the filling.
What’s the secret to perfect Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage?
The secret to the best keto Cajun shrimp sausage is balancing the smoky sausage with the sweet vegetables and perfectly cooked shrimp. Using quality Cajun seasoning and a touch of bacon fat elevates this dish from good to unforgettable.
Can I make Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Stuff the cabbage just before baking for the freshest result.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage?
A common pitfall is overcooking the shrimp; watch them closely! Also, ensure you don’t overstuff the cabbage, as the filling will expand slightly during baking.
Best Ways to Serve Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage
This amazing stuffed cabbage is a meal in itself, but you can absolutely enhance your dining experience with a few complementary sides. It’s the perfect foundation for a delicious Cajun shrimp sausage keto meal.
For a complete low-carb feast, try serving it alongside a simple crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the stuffed cabbage beautifully. Another fantastic option is some steamed or roasted broccoli or green beans, tossed with a little butter and garlic. These simple sides ensure your focus stays on the star of the show – that incredible keto Cajun shrimp sausage!
Nutrition Facts for Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage
This delightful keto Cajun shrimp sausage dish is not only packed with flavor but also fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. Each serving offers a satisfying meal without the heavy carbs typically found in stuffed cabbage.
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Cajun shrimp sausage low carb
Properly storing your delicious keto Cajun shrimp sausage leftovers is key to enjoying them later. Once the stuffed cabbages have cooled completely, transfer any remaining portions into airtight containers. This helps maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn. You can store these containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. They make fantastic grab-and-go lunches!
For longer storage, your keto Cajun shrimp sausage stuffed cabbage freezes beautifully. Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, warm gently in a microwave or a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. This ensures your Cajun shrimp sausage low carb meal is just as tasty on the second go-around!
Frequently Asked Questions About Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage
What is keto Cajun shrimp sausage?
Essentially, it’s a low-carb, flavorful dish combining shrimp and smoked sausage with Cajun seasonings, often served in a keto-friendly vessel like stuffed cabbage or a skillet. The “keto” aspect means it’s designed to be low in carbohydrates and higher in fat and protein, aligning with the ketogenic diet principles.
Can I substitute the sausage?
You bet! While andouille or kielbasa are classic, feel free to use other smoked sausages. For a different flavor profile, consider a spicy chorizo or even a chicken-based smoked sausage. Just ensure it fits your low-carb goals.
How do I make it a spicy keto shrimp sausage?
To amp up the heat for a truly spicy keto shrimp sausage experience, increase the cayenne pepper in the recipe. You can also add a dash of your favorite Louisiana-style hot sauce to the filling or serve it with a spicy aioli on the side. Some jalapeños diced into the filling also work wonders!
What are good side dishes for this keto Cajun shrimp sausage dish?
Keep it low-carb! A simple side salad with a vinaigrette, steamed asparagus, or sautéed green beans are perfect. Cauliflower rice also pairs wonderfully, soaking up any extra delicious sauce.
Variations of Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage You Can Try
While this stuffed cabbage is amazing, don’t be afraid to get creative with your keto Cajun shrimp sausage! Here are a few ideas to switch things up and keep your taste buds excited.
- Keto Shrimp and Sausage Skillet: Skip the cabbage and make a quick skillet dish! Sauté the sausage, vegetables, and shrimp as directed, then serve over cauliflower rice or with a side of avocado. It’s a super fast keto shrimp and sausage skillet meal.
- Spicy Sausage Swap: For an extra kick, use a spicy smoked sausage like a jalapeño cheddar or hot andouille. This will instantly turn your dish into a more spicy keto shrimp sausage variation.
- Creamy Cajun Delight: Stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese into the filling mixture just before stuffing the cabbage. This adds a wonderfully rich, creamy texture to your keto Cajun shrimp sausage.
- Grilled Cabbage Boats: If grilling season is here, try grilling the cabbage halves (par-cooked first) and then stuffing them with the shrimp and sausage mixture. Grill until tender and the filling is heated through for a smoky twist.
For more low-carb recipes, check out our collection of keto favorites. You might also find inspiration in our guide to essential keto ingredients.
Understanding the principles behind a ketogenic diet can be helpful. Learn more about what makes a diet keto.
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Keto Cajun Shrimp Sausage: 12-Min Flavor Sensation
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A bold and flavorful low-carb comfort food recipe featuring Cajun shrimp, smoked sausage, and vegetables stuffed into roasted cabbage bowls. This keto-friendly dish is perfect for dinner and meal prep, offering a taste of Southern-inspired cuisine.
Ingredients
- 2 medium green cabbages
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 12 oz smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
- ½ cup onion, chopped
- ½ cup bell peppers (red & green), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or bacon fat
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice off the tops of the cabbages and carefully core out the centers to make room for stuffing.
- Rub the insides with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place in a baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil or bacon fat over medium heat.
- Sauté onion, bell peppers, and garlic until softened.
- Add sausage slices and cook until browned.
- Toss in shrimp, season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until shrimp turn pink (about 2–3 minutes).
- Spoon the shrimp and sausage mixture into each cabbage.
- Add cheese if using.
- Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 40–50 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes for a roasted finish.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
- Slice into wedges and serve hot.
Notes
- Use bacon fat for extra Cajun flavor.
- Add hot sauce for more heat.
- To make dairy-free, skip the cheese.
- For meal prep, store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Use pre-cooked sausage to save time.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 stuffed cabbage
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 145mg


