🥬🍤 Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Cabbage Boats
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 35–40 minutes | Servings: 4
Tender roasted cabbage boats filled with juicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp, smoky sausage, colorful bell peppers, and garlic butter flavor. This easy, flavorful dish is perfect for a hearty family dinner!
🛒 Ingredients
For the cabbage boats
- 1 large green cabbage
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Cajun shrimp and sausage filling
- 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 smoked sausages, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup diced red and green bell peppers
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the cabbage
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove any damaged outer cabbage leaves and wash the cabbage thoroughly. Cut it into thick wedges, keeping the core attached so the leaves hold together like little boats. Carefully remove some of the inner cabbage to make room for the filling, if needed.
Step 2: Season and roast the cabbage
Arrange the cabbage wedges in a lightly greased baking dish. Brush them with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Pour a little chicken broth into the bottom of the dish to help keep the cabbage moist. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the leaves begin to soften.
Step 3: Brown the sausage
While the cabbage roasts, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely browned. Transfer to a plate and leave a little of the flavorful oil in the skillet.
Step 4: Cook the vegetables
Add the chopped onion and diced bell peppers to the same skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 5: Add the Cajun seasoning
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt over the vegetables. Stir well so the spices coat everything evenly. Remember that Cajun seasoning and smoked sausage can already contain salt, so adjust carefully.
Step 6: Cook the shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Drizzle with lemon juice and stir to coat with the seasoning. Cook for about 2–3 minutes, turning the shrimp as they begin to turn pink. Avoid overcooking them because they will become tough and rubbery.
Step 7: Make the flavorful filling
Return the browned sausage to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together and simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the broth to combine with the Cajun spices, garlic, and shrimp juices. The filling should be moist and flavorful, not watery. Make sure the shrimp are fully cooked before assembling.
Step 8: Fill the cabbage boats
Remove the cabbage from the oven and carefully uncover the dish. Spoon the shrimp, sausage, and vegetable mixture generously into each cabbage wedge. Pour a little of the skillet sauce over the filling so the cabbage absorbs the delicious Cajun flavor.
Step 9: Add cheese and finish baking
If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the stuffed cabbage boats. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until the cabbage is tender, the filling is hot, and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Step 10: Garnish and serve
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the cabbage boats rest for 3–5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Serve warm with the remaining Cajun sauce spooned over the top.
💡 Tips for the Best Results
- Keep the cabbage intact: Leave part of the core attached to help each wedge hold its shape.
- Control the spice: Use less Cajun seasoning for a milder flavor, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Avoid overcooking shrimp: Add them near the end of the skillet cooking process to keep them tender.
- Make it extra creamy: Stir 2 tablespoons of cream cheese or heavy cream into the filling before stuffing the cabbage.
- Add more vegetables: Diced celery, mushrooms, or chopped spinach work well in the filling.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Store leftovers safely: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat thoroughly. Avoid repeatedly reheating the shrimp.
Enjoy your Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Stuffed Cabbage Boats! 🥬🍤🌶️
