If you crave the bold flavors of Cajun cooking but want to keep things low-carb and satisfying, this Keto Jambalaya Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, comforting dish packed with smoky sausage, tender veggies, and creamy cheese, all coming together in a beautiful harmony of spice and texture without the traditional rice. Whether you’re new to ketogenic meals or a seasoned pro, this one delivers big on flavor and heartiness, making it an instant favorite for family dinners or weeknight indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are incredibly straightforward but essential for nailing the authentic taste and texture of a ketogenic-friendly jambalaya. Each component adds its own layer — from the smoky depth of the sausage to the fresh crunch of diced peppers, and the creamy finish from the cheese and sour cream.
- 1 lb smoked sausage: Choose a high-quality, flavorful sausage cut into rounds to bring a robust, smoky backbone to the dish.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and adding a subtle fruity note while keeping it keto-friendly.
- 1 large onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and a classic base flavor that balances the spices.
- 1 poblano pepper, diced: Brings a mild heat and richness with a slightly earthy flavor.
- ½ sweet bell pepper, diced: Contributes a pop of color and gentle sweetness to brighten the dish.
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic: Injects wonderful aroma and depth that you can’t skip in Cajun cooking.
- ¼ cup butter: Adds luscious richness and helps meld all the flavors together perfectly.
- 2 tsp cajun seasoning: The key to authentic spice; adjust to taste for your preferred heat level.
- Salt and pepper: Simple, essential seasoning to bring out the best in every ingredient.
- 1 (20-oz) package frozen cauliflower rice, thawed: The fantastic low-carb substitute for traditional rice that soaks up all those amazing flavors.
- 1 (10-oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained: Adds a vibrant tang and slight kick, plus beautiful color and moisture.
- ½ cup sour cream: Creates a creamy texture and mellow tanginess that finish the dish beautifully.
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into gooey, cheesy perfection, rounding out the flavor and binding everything together.
How to Make Keto Jambalaya Recipe
Step 1: Cook the sausage
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the smoked sausage slices and cook them until they’re nicely browned and their smoky aroma fills the kitchen. This step lays the flavorful foundation for the whole dish, so don’t rush it. The rendered fat from the sausage also helps in softening the next batch of vegetables.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
Next, toss in the diced onion, poblano pepper, and sweet bell pepper to the pan. Sauté everything until the veggies become soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This mix of peppers and onions introduces a vibrant crunch and natural sweetness that marries wonderfully with the spicy sausage.
Step 3: Add garlic, butter, and spices
Now add the minced garlic, butter, cajun seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The butter melts into the hot pan, creating an irresistible base where the garlic and spices bloom. Stir thoroughly so every bit of sausage and vegetable gets coated in this aromatic, buttery mixture.
Step 4: Cook the cauliflower rice
Stir in the thawed cauliflower rice next. Let it cook down until it softens and starts to get a slight golden edge. This step is key because it prevents the cauliflower rice from becoming soggy while allowing it to soak up all the deep, spicy flavors of the sausage and veggies. This is the heart of the Keto Jambalaya Recipe experience—rich texture without the carbs.
Step 5: Finish with tomatoes, sour cream, and cheese
Pour in the Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, keeping the juice in. Add the sour cream and shredded Monterey Jack cheese, then reduce the heat to low. Let everything simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sour cream and cheese melt into a creamy sauce that brings the whole dish together with a velvety finish you’ll want to savor.
How to Serve Keto Jambalaya Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Keto Jambalaya Recipe, fresh garnishes like chopped green onions, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or even a dash of extra Cajun seasoning add a burst of color and an additional flavor kick. A few slices of avocado can also add that creamy, cooling contrast to the spice.
Side Dishes
This dish stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to complement it, consider a crisp side salad with a lemon vinaigrette or roasted low-carb vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. These sides keep the meal light, fresh, and balanced while enhancing the bold richness of the jambalaya.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Keto Jambalaya Recipe in individual cast-iron skillets for that rustic, authentic vibe, or plate it over a bed of sautéed greens for extra color and nutrients. You could even stuff bell peppers with the jambalaya mixture and bake them for a fun, impressive presentation that’s perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Keto Jambalaya Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a wonderful dish to enjoy as a next-day meal without losing any of its charm.
Freezing
Freeze any remaining jambalaya portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool the dish completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for easiest reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the jambalaya gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help it heat evenly. Add a splash of broth or water if it looks too thick. You can also microwave it covered, stirring halfway through for even warmth. The creamy, spicy goodness tastes just as great the second time around!
FAQs
Is this Keto Jambalaya Recipe truly low-carb?
Absolutely! By swapping traditional rice for cauliflower rice and sticking to low-carb veggies and protein, this dish stays perfectly keto-friendly while keeping all the rich, bold flavors you’d expect from classic jambalaya.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely! Feel free to increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add extra chili peppers for more heat. You can also choose a spicy smoked sausage variety to ramp up the spice level.
What can I substitute for Monterey Jack cheese?
If Monterey Jack isn’t available, mild cheddar or a good melting cheese like mozzarella works wonderfully here. Just choose one that melts well to keep that creamy texture.
Can I use fresh cauliflower rice?
Yes, fresh cauliflower rice is a fantastic option and will work just as well. Just make sure to cook it until tender and slightly browned for the best texture.
Is this Keto Jambalaya Recipe suitable for meal prep?
It absolutely is! It reheats beautifully and holds flavor well, making it ideal for preparing ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Treat yourself to this vibrant, satisfying Keto Jambalaya Recipe that combines the best of Cajun seasoning with keto-friendly ingredients. It’s a dish that feels indulgent without any guilt and is perfect for spicing up your low-carb meal routine. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become a staple in your kitchen, just like one of my all-time favorites!
Print
Keto Jambalaya Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Creole
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Keto Jambalaya is a flavorful low-carb twist on the classic Creole dish, combining smoky sausage, sautéed peppers, cauliflower rice, and a creamy blend of cheese and sour cream. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect hearty meal for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet, delivering bold Cajun flavors without the traditional rice.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb smoked sausage, cut into rounds
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 poblano pepper, diced
- ½ sweet bell pepper, diced
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
Seasoning and Other Ingredients
- ¼ cup butter
- 2 tsp cajun seasoning, or to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (20-oz) package frozen cauliflower rice, thawed
- 1 (10-oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and cook the smoked sausage rounds until browned and heated through, releasing their smoky flavor.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add diced onion, poblano pepper, and sweet bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Add seasoning and garlic: Stir in minced garlic, butter, cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the garlic is fragrant and the butter has melted, coating the ingredients.
- Cook the cauliflower rice: Add the thawed cauliflower rice to the skillet. Stir well and cook until it softens and begins to brown slightly, incorporating all the flavors.
- Simmer with tomatoes and creaminess: Pour in the undrained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. Stir in sour cream and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld flavors and melt the cheese.
Notes
- Make sure to thaw the cauliflower rice completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste preference for spice.
- For a spicier version, use a hot Rotel variety or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed green vegetables for a complete keto meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
