Keto Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Cabbage

This Keto Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Cabbage recipe is a bold, spicy twist on a comfort food classic—with none of the carbs. I love how it brings together the smoky flavor of sausage, the richness of shrimp, and the crunch of tender cabbage, all wrapped up in a keto-friendly package. It’s hearty, satisfying, and totally grain-free, making it perfect for low-carb weeknights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it packs serious Cajun flavor without the heaviness of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls. The shrimp and sausage combo brings protein and richness, while the cabbage leaves keep it light. I can prep the filling in one pan, roll it up in tender cabbage leaves, and bake everything together until it’s perfectly melded and bubbling. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but still fits perfectly into my keto routine.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 head green cabbage

• ½ pound shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped

• ½ pound andouille or smoked sausage, sliced or crumbled

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (more to taste)

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar (optional)

• ½ cup sugar-free tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes (optional, for topping)

directions

1. I start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. I remove 8–10 large cabbage leaves and blanch them in the boiling water for 2–3 minutes until they’re pliable. I drain them and set them aside to cool.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, I sauté the sausage in olive oil until browned. I add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and cook until softened.

3. I stir in the chopped shrimp, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. I cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

4. If I’m using cheese, I stir it into the mixture now for a gooey filling.

5. To assemble, I lay a cabbage leaf flat, spoon some filling onto the center, and roll it up like a burrito—folding in the sides and rolling tightly.

6. I place the rolls seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

7. If using tomato sauce, I spoon it lightly over the top before covering the dish with foil.

8. I bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until everything is heated through and the cabbage is tender.

9. I serve hot, often with extra sauce or a sprinkle of cheese on top.

Servings and timing

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: ~50 minutes

• Yields: 4 servings

Variations

Sometimes I mix in cauliflower rice to stretch the filling and give it even more texture. If I want it extra spicy, I add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. I’ve also swapped the shrimp for crab meat or even ground chicken for a different take. For a dairy-free version, I skip the cheese and add a drizzle of avocado oil before baking to keep things rich.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I cover the rolls and bake at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes or microwave on medium power for 2–3 minutes per roll. These also freeze really well—I just wrap them tightly and freeze before baking, then thaw overnight and bake when I’m ready.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the cabbage rolls the day before, keep them in the fridge, and bake them when I’m ready to eat.

Is this recipe spicy?

The Cajun seasoning adds a mild to moderate heat. I adjust it to my preference or use a mild blend if I’m serving to kids.

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

Green cabbage is best because it’s softer when blanched, but red will work if that’s what I have—it just takes slightly longer to cook.

What sausage is best for keto?

I stick with andouille or smoked sausage with no added sugars or fillers—check the label to keep it keto-friendly.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I leave out the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The dish is still flavorful without it.

Conclusion

This Keto Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Cabbage is a delicious, low-carb spin on a comfort food classic. I love how the smoky, spicy filling pairs with tender cabbage leaves for a dish that’s both satisfying and light. Whether I’m meal prepping or making dinner for guests, this one always delivers bold flavor and comfort without breaking my keto goals.