This Cajun sausage cabbage alfredo is pure comfort food magic. It went viral on TikTok for good reason! Rich, creamy alfredo sauce coats tender cabbage and spicy andouille sausage. Best of all? It’s ready in just 25 minutes.
I discovered this recipe while scrolling through my feed late one night. The combination seemed unusual at first. But trust me, it works beautifully. The cabbage soaks up all that incredible Cajun-spiced cream sauce.
Why This Recipe Works
Traditional alfredo uses pasta, which is loaded with carbs. This version swaps in cabbage for a keto-friendly twist. Cabbage has only 6 grams of net carbs per serving. It’s filling, nutritious, and costs less than most vegetables.
The andouille sausage brings smoky, spicy flavor to every bite. Cajun seasoning amplifies the heat and adds depth. Meanwhile, the alfredo sauce ties everything together with its rich, velvety texture.
The Viral TikTok Sensation
Cabbage alfredo exploded on TikTok for several reasons. First, it looks absolutely stunning in videos. That creamy sauce clinging to tender cabbage is mesmerizing. Second, it’s incredibly easy to make. Even cooking beginners can nail this recipe.
The recipe also speaks to anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. Many people miss pasta dishes when they go keto. This gives you that same satisfying, indulgent feeling without the carb overload.
Cajun Flavor Profile
Cajun cuisine comes from Louisiana. It’s known for bold, spicy flavors and hearty ingredients. Traditional dishes often feature the “holy trinity” of onions, celery, and bell peppers. This recipe simplifies things but keeps that authentic Cajun punch.
Cajun seasoning typically contains paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Some blends add thyme, black pepper, and onion powder. The mix creates layers of heat and savory depth. It transforms ordinary dishes into something extraordinary.
I love how Cajun spices work with cream sauces. The heat cuts through the richness perfectly. You get that spicy kick without overwhelming your palate. Each bite has complexity and balance.
Understanding Keto Alfredo Sauce
Classic alfredo sauce is already keto-friendly. It contains butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. No flour or thickeners needed. The sauce naturally thickens as the cheese melts and combines with the cream.
I’ve experimented with many alfredo variations over the years. Adding garlic creates a traditional Italian flavor. Incorporating Cajun seasoning takes it in a completely different direction. Both versions are delicious, but this spicy version has become my favorite.
The beauty of alfredo is its versatility. You can use it as a cheese dip for chicken nuggets. Pour it over vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower. Or replace the sausage with shredded chicken for Cajun chicken alfredo.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need from the store. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavors.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | For searing sausage |
| Andouille Sausage | 14 ounces, sliced | Smoked Cajun sausage |
| Butter | 6 tbsp, divided | 2 tbsp for onions, 4 tbsp for sauce |
| Onion | 1/2, chopped | Yellow or white onion |
| Cajun Seasoning | 3 tsp | Adjust heat to preference |
| Chopped Cabbage | 5 cups | Green cabbage works best |
| Heavy Whipping Cream | 1 cup | Full-fat for best texture |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup | Freshly grated preferred |
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these instructions carefully for the best results. I’ll walk you through each step with helpful tips along the way.
Step 1: Sear the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your sliced andouille sausage. Sear the pieces until they develop a nice brown crust on both sides. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes total.
The browning process is crucial. It creates deep, caramelized flavors that enhance the entire dish. Don’t rush this step. Let the sausage sit undisturbed for a couple minutes before flipping. Remove the browned sausage and set it aside on a plate.
Pro tip: If your sausage releases a lot of fat, drain most of it before proceeding. Leave just a thin coating in the pan for flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Onions
Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once the butter melts and starts to foam, add your chopped onions. Stir frequently and cook until the onions become soft and translucent. This takes approximately 3-4 minutes.
The onions provide a sweet base that balances the spicy Cajun flavors. They also add texture and depth to the sauce. Make sure they’re fully softened but not browned.
Step 3: Add Cabbage and Butter
Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter to the skillet along with all your chopped cabbage. The cabbage will look like a huge pile at first. Don’t worry. It will cook down significantly as it softens.
Stir everything together to coat the cabbage with butter. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the entire mixture. Toss well to distribute the spices evenly. Every piece should be seasoned.
Step 4: Create the Alfredo Sauce
Pour in the heavy whipping cream. Stir everything together to combine. The cream will mix with the butter and spices to begin forming your sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
During this time, the cabbage will steam and become tender. Check occasionally and stir to prevent sticking. The cabbage should be soft but still have a slight bite. You don’t want it mushy.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Thicken
Remove the lid from your skillet. Add the grated parmesan cheese and stir continuously until it melts completely. The sauce will begin to thicken as the cheese incorporates. Let it simmer uncovered for another 2-3 minutes.
The sauce should coat the back of a spoon nicely. If it seems too thin, continue simmering. If it’s too thick, add a splash of cream to adjust the consistency.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together so the sausage is evenly distributed throughout the dish. Let it heat through for about 1 minute. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve immediately while everything is hot and creamy. The dish is perfect on its own as a complete meal. You can also pair it with sides if you have extra room in your carb budget for the day.
Expert Tips for Success
These tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results every single time you make this dish.
Choosing Your Sausage
Andouille sausage is traditional in Cajun cooking. It’s heavily smoked and has a coarse texture. The spices in andouille complement the Cajun seasoning perfectly. However, you can substitute other sausages if needed.
Kielbasa works well as a milder alternative. Italian sausage brings different herbs but still tastes great. Chorizo adds even more heat for spice lovers. Just make sure whatever sausage you choose is fully cooked before slicing.
Cabbage Preparation
Green cabbage is my top choice for this recipe. It holds up well during cooking and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Cut the cabbage into roughly 1-inch pieces. Uniform sizing ensures even cooking.
Remove the tough core before chopping. The core doesn’t soften properly and creates an unpleasant texture. You can save the core for making vegetable stock if you don’t want waste.
Adjusting the Heat Level
Cajun seasoning varies widely between brands. Some are quite mild while others pack serious heat. Start with the recommended 3 teaspoons and taste the sauce before adding the sausage back. You can always add more seasoning but can’t remove it.
For a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning to 2 teaspoons. Add a pinch of paprika for color without much heat. If you want extra spice, include a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Storage and Meal Prep
This dish is excellent for meal prep. I make a double batch on Sundays and portion it into containers. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Store the cabbage alfredo in airtight containers. The alfredo sauce will solidify in the fridge. This is completely normal. When you reheat it, the sauce melts beautifully and returns to its creamy consistency.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating. You can also reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream if the sauce seems too thick after reheating.
What to Serve With This Dish
This Cajun sausage cabbage alfredo is a complete one-skillet meal. You get protein from the sausage, vegetables from the cabbage, and plenty of healthy fats from the cream and butter. That said, a few strategic sides can round out the meal.
Keto garlic bread is my favorite accompaniment. Use it to soak up every drop of that incredible alfredo sauce. The garlic flavor complements the Cajun spices wonderfully. You can make simple garlic knots or cheesy bread sticks.
A fresh green salad provides a cool, crisp contrast to the rich, creamy main dish. Use a simple vinaigrette or ranch dressing. Add some cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and radishes for extra crunch and color.
Roasted vegetables make another great side option. Asparagus wrapped in bacon is always a winner. Brussels sprouts or green beans work well too. Everything tastes better with bacon, honestly.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this cabbage alfredo contains approximately 6 grams of net carbs. The majority of these carbs come from the cabbage and onions. The heavy cream contributes minimal carbs, and parmesan cheese adds almost none.
You’re also getting substantial protein from the andouille sausage. The healthy fats from butter, cream, and cheese help keep you full for hours. This macronutrient balance makes it perfect for keto and low-carb diets.
The dish is naturally gluten-free as long as your Cajun seasoning doesn’t contain wheat-based fillers. Always check labels if you have gluten sensitivity. Most pure spice blends are safe.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences and what you have available. Let me share some variations I’ve tried successfully.
Protein Swaps
Replace the sausage with cooked chicken breast or thighs for Cajun chicken alfredo. Shred or dice the chicken before adding it to the sauce. Shrimp works beautifully too. Add raw shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking so they don’t overcook.
Ground beef or turkey provides a budget-friendly option. Brown the meat first and drain excess fat. Season it with some of the Cajun spices before mixing with the sauce. You could even use leftover rotisserie chicken to make prep even faster.
Vegetable Alternatives
Not a fan of cabbage? Try shirataki noodles or palmini noodles instead. These low-carb pasta substitutes soak up the sauce just like traditional noodles. Rinse them well before using to remove any packaging odor.
Cauliflower rice works as another swap. Add it directly to the sauce and let it cook until tender. Zucchini noodles are delicious but release a lot of water. Squeeze them dry first or the sauce will become watery.
You can also mix vegetables for variety. Half cabbage and half cauliflower creates interesting texture. Add some bell peppers for color and a slight sweetness that balances the heat.
Dairy Modifications
For a richer sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. The sauce won’t be quite as thick but will still taste delicious. Cream cheese adds extra richness and helps thicken the sauce. Add 2-4 ounces along with the parmesan.
Try different cheeses for variety. Asiago has a sharper flavor than parmesan. Romano cheese brings a salty, tangy note. A blend of parmesan and mozzarella creates an ultra-creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Making a dairy-free version is challenging since cream and cheese are essential to alfredo sauce. However, you can try coconut cream as a substitute for heavy cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese. The flavor won’t be identical but it creates a similar creamy texture. Add extra Cajun seasoning to compensate for the missing cheese flavor.
How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
Sauce separation happens when the heat is too high or the cheese is added too quickly. Always reduce your heat to medium-low before adding the parmesan. Add the cheese gradually while stirring constantly. If the sauce does break, remove it from heat and whisk in a tablespoon of cold cream. This usually brings it back together. Using freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-grated also helps prevent separation.
Can I freeze leftover cabbage alfredo?
I don’t recommend freezing this dish. Cream-based sauces often separate and become grainy when frozen and thawed. The cabbage can also become mushy after freezing. If you have leftovers, they keep well in the refrigerator for three days. This is better than freezing. Make smaller batches if you’re concerned about waste.
What if I can’t find andouille sausage?
Andouille is the traditional choice but not always available. Smoked kielbasa makes an excellent substitute. It has similar texture and smokiness. Hot Italian sausage provides plenty of flavor with different spices. Regular smoked sausage works fine too. Add extra Cajun seasoning to compensate for less spicy sausages. Some stores carry Cajun-style smoked sausage which is perfect for this recipe.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is completely keto-friendly. Each serving contains only 6 grams of net carbs. The dish is high in healthy fats from butter and cream. You get adequate protein from the sausage. The cabbage provides fiber and nutrients without many carbs. It fits perfectly into a ketogenic diet. Just be mindful of the Cajun seasoning you use. Some brands add sugar so check the label to ensure it’s carb-free.
This Keto TikTok Cajun Sausage Cabbage Alfredo delivers everything you want in comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors. The recipe comes together quickly with minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one skillet. Whether you’re following keto or just looking for a delicious dinner, this viral sensation deserves a spot in your regular rotation.
Cajun Sausage Cabbage Alfredo (Viral TikTok Keto Recipe)
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 14 ounces Andouille Sausage sliced
- 6 tbsp Butter divided (2 tbsp for onions, 4 tbsp for sauce)
- 1/2 Onion chopped (yellow or white)
- 3 tsp Cajun Seasoning adjust to heat preference
- 5 cups Chopped Cabbage green cabbage works best
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream full-fat
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese freshly grated preferred
Instructions
- Sear the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced andouille sausage and sear until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes total. Remove and set aside. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving a thin coating.
- Cook the Onions: Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Once melted and foaming, add chopped onions. Cook, stirring frequently, until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Cabbage and Butter: Add remaining 4 tablespoons butter and all chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir to coat cabbage with butter. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the mixture and toss well to distribute evenly.
- Create the Alfredo Sauce: Pour in heavy whipping cream and stir to combine. Cover skillet with lid and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender but still has a slight bite.
- Add Parmesan and Thicken: Remove lid and add grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until cheese melts completely. Let simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Combine and Serve: Return browned sausage to skillet. Stir to distribute evenly and heat through for 1 minute. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
Reheating: Microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or reheat on stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream if sauce is too thick.
Sausage Substitutions: Use kielbasa for milder flavor, Italian sausage, or chorizo for extra heat. Ensure sausage is fully cooked before slicing.
Heat Level: Start with 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning and adjust to taste. For milder version, use 2 teaspoons. For extra spice, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Cabbage Prep: Remove tough core before chopping. Cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
Low-Carb Alternatives: Substitute cabbage with shirataki noodles, palmini noodles, cauliflower rice, or zucchini noodles (squeeze dry first).
