Description
A low-carb, flavor-packed dish perfect for keto lovers! Tender cabbage leaves are stuffed with a spicy Cajun mixture of shrimp, sausage, and aromatic herbs. This meal is hearty, satisfying, and full of bold flavors without the carbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage & Filling:
- 1 large green cabbage
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced or diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Optional for Sauce:
- ½ cup tomato sauce (sugar-free for keto)
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage:
- Remove the core of the cabbage and carefully peel off large leaves.
- Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the filling:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
- Add sausage slices and cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in shrimp, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until shrimp turn pink (about 3–4 minutes).
- Mix in fresh parsley and remove from heat.
- Assemble the stuffed cabbage:
- Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto each cabbage leaf.
- Roll the leaf tightly, folding in the sides to secure the filling.
- Place stuffed leaves seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Optional sauce:
- Mix tomato sauce, heavy cream, and cayenne pepper. Pour over stuffed cabbage.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 5–10 minutes to lightly brown the top.
- Serve:
- Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm.
Tips
- Make it spicier: Add more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
- Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Keto swap: Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- Extra flavor: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before baking.