Cajun Sausage Cabbage Alfredo

This one-skillet Keto TikTok Cajun Sausage and Cabbage Alfredo has become my weeknight dinner hero when I need something satisfying without the carbs. The spicy sausage pairs perfectly with tender cabbage in a creamy, cheesy sauce that makes you forget you're eating low-carb.

I discovered this recipe during my keto journey last year and have made it nearly every week since. My husband who typically despises cabbage asks for seconds every time I make this dish.

Ingredients

• Andouille sausage: Brings authentic cajun flavor as the protein centerpiece. Look for high quality sausage with visible spices throughout for best flavor.
• Cabbage: Serves as the pasta substitute. Choose firm heads with crisp leaves and no brown spots.
• Heavy whipping cream: Creates the alfredo base. Always use full fat for proper thickening.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds richness and thickens the sauce. Freshly grated works far better than pre packaged.
• Cajun seasoning: Brings the signature flavor. Brands vary in heat level so adjust to your preference.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps soften the cabbage. Use unsalted so you can control the final saltiness.
• Onion: Provides aromatic foundation. Yellow or white onions work best here.
• Olive oil: Helps prevent sticking and browns the sausage. Extra virgin isn't necessary.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Sausage:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until shimmering. Add sliced andouille sausage in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until deeply browned on one side, then flip and cook 1 minute more. The goal is to develop a flavorful crust that will infuse the entire dish. Remove sausage to a plate but leave all the flavorful drippings in the pan.

Sauté the Aromatics:

Add 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet and reduce heat to medium. Once melted, add chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until translucent but not browned. Use this time to scrape up any browned bits from the sausage as these contain tremendous flavor.

Cook the Cabbage:

Add remaining 4 tablespoons butter to the skillet followed by the chopped cabbage. Stir well to coat cabbage in butter and onion mixture. Sprinkle cajun seasoning evenly across the cabbage and stir again to distribute. The cabbage will look like too much at first but will cook down significantly.

Create the Alfredo Sauce:

Pour heavy whipping cream over the cabbage mixture and stir to combine. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to medium low. Allow to simmer for 7 to 10 minutes until cabbage begins to soften but still maintains some texture. You want the cabbage tender but not mushy.

Thicken and Finish:

Remove lid and stir in grated parmesan cheese. Continue cooking uncovered for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Return sausage to the skillet and gently fold in to warm through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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I find the andouille sausage to be the star of this dish. The first time I made this, I used a premium cajun style andouille from my local butcher shop, and it made such a difference that I now splurge on quality sausage whenever making this recipe. My family has grown to love this dish so much that it has replaced our traditional pasta night each week.

Storing and Reheating

This cajun cabbage alfredo keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve overnight as they meld together. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over medium low heat with a splash of cream to revitalize the sauce. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but can make the sausage tough if overheated.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. Kielbasa or smoked sausage can replace andouille though you may want to increase the cajun seasoning. For a lighter version, use chicken breast slices or shrimp. The cabbage can be partially replaced with cauliflower rice for texture variety. If you find the dish too rich, replace half the heavy cream with chicken broth though the sauce will be thinner.

Customizing the Heat Level

The spice level of this dish depends largely on your cajun seasoning and sausage choice. Most commercial cajun seasonings range from mild to medium heat. For a spicier version, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cream. If cooking for mixed preferences, keep the base mild and provide hot sauce at the table. For those who prefer less heat, use a mild Italian sausage and replace cajun seasoning with 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon oregano.

Serving Suggestions

While perfect on its own as a complete meal, this dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For those not strictly following keto, garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for sauce sopping. A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or even a light beer complements the spicy flavors nicely.

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This dish delivers bold flavors and creamy comfort while staying keto friendly. It's a weeknight favorite sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! While andouille sausage provides authentic Cajun flavor, you can substitute kielbasa, smoked sausage, or even Italian sausage. Each will create a different flavor profile, but all work well with the creamy sauce.

→ How spicy is this dish?

With 3 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, it has a moderate kick. Adjust the seasoning to your preference - use less for a milder dish or add a dash of hot sauce if you prefer more heat.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make excellent additions. Add peppers and mushrooms with the onions, or stir spinach in just before serving until wilted.

→ What's the best cabbage to use?

Green cabbage works best for this dish as it holds up well to cooking while becoming tender. Savoy cabbage is also excellent for a slightly more delicate texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Cream-based dishes can sometimes separate when frozen and reheated. If freezing, do so in airtight containers for up to 1 month and reheat slowly, stirring frequently to help recombine the sauce.