Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Seafood Cabbage Cups

These Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Seafood Cabbage Cups are a flavorful, low-carb meal made with juicy shrimp, savory sausage, garlic, and tender cabbage leaves. They are quick to prepare, packed with protein, and perfect as a light lunch, dinner, or easy appetizer.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz (225 g) smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 large head green cabbage
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan, optional
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Carefully remove several outer cabbage leaves and rinse them well. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 1–2 minutes until softened, then transfer them to cold water. Drain and pat dry.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly so it does not burn.
4. Add the shrimp, smoked paprika, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2–4 minutes, turning the shrimp once, until they are pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Spoon the garlic shrimp and sausage mixture into the softened cabbage leaves.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan and extra parsley if desired. Serve warm with fresh lemon wedges.

Q&A

Can I use turkey or chicken sausage?
Yes. Turkey or chicken sausage works well if you prefer a lighter option.

Can I make these cabbage cups spicy?
Absolutely. Add extra red pepper flakes or a little hot sauce to the shrimp mixture.

What other cabbage can I use?
Napa cabbage works especially well because its leaves are naturally tender and flexible.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the shrimp and sausage mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Reheat gently before filling the cabbage cups.

What can I serve with cabbage cups?
They pair nicely with a simple cucumber salad, roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a lemony green salad.

Nutrition

These cabbage cups are naturally low in carbohydrates and provide a good amount of protein from the shrimp and sausage. Using lean sausage and moderate amounts of oil can make them a lighter meal.

Consultation Tips

Choose fresh shrimp with a clean smell and avoid overcooking them, as shrimp can become rubbery quickly. For the best texture, keep the cabbage leaves tender but sturdy enough to hold the filling.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Seafood Cabbage Cups are an easy way to turn simple ingredients into a satisfying low-carb meal. The combination of garlicky shrimp, smoky sausage, lemon, and tender cabbage makes every bite flavorful and fresh.