🍲 Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Sausage and Rice (Weight Watchers Friendly)
This lighter version of Jambalaya combines smoky sausage, tender cabbage, and seasoned rice for a comforting, flavorful meal. By using cabbage to replace part of the rice and choosing lean sausage, it keeps the dish lower in Weight Watchers points while still being hearty and satisfying.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice (or 3 cups cooked)
- 8 oz light smoked sausage (turkey or chicken), sliced
- 3 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1–2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions and parsley for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
Cook the brown rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced sausage and cook until lightly browned.
3. Cook the Vegetables
Add onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic.
Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
4. Add Cabbage and Tomatoes
Stir in chopped cabbage and diced tomatoes.
Cook for 5–7 minutes until cabbage begins to soften.
5. Season and Simmer
Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for about 10 minutes.
6. Combine with Rice
Add the cooked rice and stir well.
Cook for another 3–5 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. Serve
Garnish with green onions and parsley if desired. Serve warm.
⚖️ Weight Watchers Points (Estimated)
- About 5–7 points per serving
(Depends on sausage type and oil used)
❓ Q&A
❓ Can I make this low-carb?
Yes. Replace the rice with cauliflower rice or use more cabbage.
❓ What sausage is best?
Lean turkey or chicken sausage works best to keep points low.
❓ Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
❓ Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze for up to 2–3 months and reheat with a little broth.
❓ Is it spicy?
It’s mildly spicy. Adjust Cajun seasoning to your taste.
💡 Tips
- Use cooking spray instead of oil to reduce points.
- Add hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Let it rest a few minutes before serving for better taste.