Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Roasted Cabbage Boats
These Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Roasted Cabbage Boats are a hearty, low-carb meal packed with juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, sweet peppers, melted cheese, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Cabbage Boats
- 1 medium green cabbage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Filling
- 12 oz (340g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 10 oz (280g) smoked sausage (Andouille, kielbasa, or turkey sausage), sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the cabbage into 4 large wedges, keeping part of the core intact so each wedge holds together.
- Brush both sides with olive oil and season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the wedges in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Roast for 20 minutes until they begin to soften.
2. Cook the Filling
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned.
- Stir in the bell pepper and garlic; cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the shrimp, Cajun seasoning, oregano, and black pepper.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the green onions.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter.
- Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and parsley.
- Simmer for 1–2 minutes.
4. Assemble
- Remove the cabbage from the oven.
- Spoon the shrimp and sausage mixture over each cabbage wedge.
- Sprinkle evenly with the shredded cheese.
- Pour the garlic butter sauce around and lightly over the cabbage.
5. Bake
- Return the baking dish to the oven.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the shrimp are fully cooked.
- Garnish with additional green onions and parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Boats
- Keep a portion of the cabbage core attached so the wedges stay together.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp—they only need a few minutes.
- Brown the sausage first to develop extra flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice brightens the rich garlic butter sauce.
- For a crispier cheese topping, broil for the last 2 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 33g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Net Carbs: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 920mg
Nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on the brands of sausage and cheese used.
Nut Information
Contains Nuts?
- No. This recipe does not contain peanuts or tree nuts.
Common Allergens
- Shellfish (shrimp)
- Milk (butter and cheese)
- Soy (may be present in some sausage brands and Worcestershire sauce)
Nut-Free Status
- Naturally free of peanuts and tree nuts.
Cross-Contamination Advice
If preparing for someone with a severe nut allergy:
- Check the labels on the sausage, Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, and cheese for any “may contain peanuts/tree nuts” statements.
- Use clean cookware, utensils, and cutting boards to prevent cross-contact.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Variations
Spicy Cajun
Add diced jalapeños and extra Cajun seasoning for more heat.
Cheesy Alfredo
Replace the garlic butter sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce and top with Parmesan cheese.
Mediterranean Style
Use chicken sausage, feta cheese, olives, and oregano instead of Cajun seasoning.
Low-Fat Version
Use turkey sausage, reduced-fat cheese, and reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon.
Surf & Turf Deluxe
Add lump crab meat or scallops along with the shrimp for an extra-special meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
What type of sausage works best?
Andouille adds a smoky, spicy flavor, while kielbasa or turkey sausage are excellent milder alternatives.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. Roast the cabbage and prepare the filling up to one day ahead. Assemble and bake just before serving.
Can I use red cabbage?
Green cabbage is recommended because it becomes tender and sweet when roasted. Red cabbage has a firmer texture and a stronger flavor.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes. With approximately 6g net carbs per serving, it fits well into most low-carb and keto meal plans.
What side dishes go well with cabbage boats?
Serve with cauliflower rice, roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, a crisp garden salad, or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
