If you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and a little different from the usual dinner routine, shrimp and sausage stuffed cabbage rolls are the perfect dish to try. Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a rich filling of juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and savory vegetables create a meal that’s both comforting and impressive.
This recipe brings together bold Southern-style flavors with a rustic, home-cooked feel. The cabbage becomes soft and slightly sweet as it cooks, soaking up the delicious sauce. Inside, the shrimp stay tender and juicy while the sausage adds smoky depth and heartiness. Everything is simmered together in a rich, garlicky tomato broth that ties it all together.
It’s the kind of dish that looks gourmet but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or when you want something satisfying and unique.
Once you try these stuffed cabbage rolls, they’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
This dish stands out because it’s:
- Packed with bold flavor
- Hearty yet fresh
- High in protein
- Naturally low carb
- Perfect for meal prep
- Comforting and filling
- Beautiful to serve
It’s a complete meal in one delicious bundle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cabbage
- 1 large green cabbage
- Water for boiling
For the Filling
- 300g shrimp, peeled and chopped
- 250g smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Sauce
- 2 cups diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning or Italian herbs
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Simple ingredients create rich, satisfying flavor.
How to Make Shrimp and Sausage Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Step 1 – Prepare the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Carefully place the whole cabbage into the water.
Cook for 5–7 minutes until the leaves soften.
Remove and gently peel off large leaves.
Set aside to cool.
Step 2 – Cook the Filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add sausage slices and cook until browned.
Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
Cook until soft and fragrant.
Stir in shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until just pink.
Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
Remove from heat.
Step 3 – Assemble the Rolls
Lay a cabbage leaf flat.
Place a spoonful of filling in the center.
Fold sides inward and roll tightly like a burrito.
Repeat with remaining leaves.
Step 4 – Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet or pot, combine tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, and seasoning.
Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 5 – Cook the Rolls
Place cabbage rolls seam-side down in the sauce.
Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
The cabbage will absorb the sauce and become tender.
Step 6 – Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve warm with extra sauce spooned on top.
Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls
Use large outer cabbage leaves for easier rolling.
Don’t overcook shrimp to keep them tender.
Roll tightly so filling stays inside.
Simmer gently to avoid breaking the rolls.
Let flavors meld before serving.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning.
Flavor Variations to Try
You can easily customize this recipe.
Add rice or quinoa for extra texture.
Use spicy sausage for heat.
Add corn or mushrooms.
Swap shrimp for crab or chicken.
Use creamy sauce instead of tomato base.
Add fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Each variation offers something new.
What to Serve with Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
These rolls pair well with:
Garlic bread
Rice or mashed potatoes
Fresh salad
Roasted vegetables
Cornbread
They’re filling enough to stand alone as a main dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even better.
They also freeze well for later meals.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and sausage stuffed cabbage rolls bring together bold flavors, tender textures, and hearty comfort in every bite. The soft cabbage, juicy seafood, smoky sausage, and rich sauce create a dish that feels both rustic and satisfying.
Easy to prepare yet impressive to serve, this recipe is perfect for anyone who loves flavorful, home-cooked meals with a twist. Once you taste these savory rolls, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try them sooner.
Tender, saucy, and packed with flavor — a comforting dinner that never disappoints.