Name: Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 head of cabbage, chopped (about 4-5 cups); 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice); 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (use more or less to taste); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked white rice; Optional: chopped green onions for garnish; Optional: hot sauce for serving

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Why You’ll Love Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage! It’s incredibly satisfying—both comforting and loaded with bold, smoky flavor. The addition of chopped cabbage brings a freshness and slightly sweet crunch to every bite while soaking up all those signature Cajun spices. This recipe also stands out as a budget-friendly alternative to classic jambalaya, using ground beef and smoked sausage instead of pricier seafood cuts.

Cabbage jambalaya makes wonderful leftovers and is great for meal prepping. Plus, it’s easy to customize: dial the spice level up or down, toss in extra vegetables you have on hand, or change up the proteins for a new spin every time. Even picky eaters find it hard to resist. So whether you’re serving a crowd or looking for a comforting solo dinner, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Ingredients for Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your own batch of Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage:

1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
1 small onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 head of cabbage, chopped (about 4-5 cups)
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (use more or less to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked white rice
Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Optional: hot sauce for serving

Every ingredient delivers a layer of flavor, from the savory ground beef to the smoky sausage and those signature “holy trinity” veggies of onion, pepper, and garlic. The Cajun seasoning pulls everything together with just the right amount of kick. Feel free to tweak the amounts or get creative with what you have in your pantry!

Necessary Tools

The best part about this Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage is its simplicity—no fancy gadgets needed! Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

Large, deep skillet or Dutch oven (at least 12-inch diameter, preferably with a lid)
Sharp chef’s knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring spoons
Medium pot (for cooking rice, unless using pre-cooked or leftover rice)
Bowl (for prepping veggies)

A heavy-bottomed pan helps achieve a perfect sauté on the vegetables and browning on the meat. With these basic kitchen tools, you’ll be ready to cook up a flavorful Cajun feast in no time.

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

This Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage is incredibly versatile, allowing you to accommodate what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. If you don’t have ground beef, try using ground turkey, ground chicken, or even pork. The smoked sausage can be swapped for andouille sausage for extra kick, or a chicken sausage for a lighter option.

Vegetarians can omit the meat altogether, using a plant-based ground or smoked tofu for protein. Add more vegetables like celery, carrots, or diced tomatoes for a veggie-forward version. If you prefer brown rice to white, go for it. Not a fan of heat? Reduce the Cajun seasoning or swap in a mild Creole blend. For a gluten-free variation, double-check that your sausage and seasoning are certified gluten-free. The options are endless, so make it your own!

How to Make Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage

Making Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage is all about big flavors and a few simple steps. You’ll brown the sausage and beef, layer in fresh veggies, and then let it all simmer until the flavors come together. The cooked rice is stirred in at the end for a perfectly hearty, harmonious dish. Here are the easy-to-follow steps:

Step 1: Brown the Meats

Start by heating a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, until it’s starting to brown and render out some fat. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside (it’s fine if some slices remain in the pan).

Add the ground beef to the skillet. If there’s not enough fat left, drizzle in a teaspoon of oil. Crumble and brown the beef until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the same pan with the browned beef. Cook over medium heat until the veggies are softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté another minute, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer with Tomatoes and Cabbage

Return the cooked sausage to the pan. Stir in the chopped cabbage, canned diced tomatoes (with all their juices), Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine.

Cover and let it cook over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still has bite, and the flavors have melded.

Step 4: Add Rice and Finish

Uncover and add the cooked white rice. Fold it into the jambalaya mixture until evenly distributed and heated through, about 2-3 minutes more. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more Cajun seasoning or hot sauce as desired.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To finish, sprinkle with chopped green onions and another dash of hot sauce for a true Cajun flair. Serve hot, straight from the skillet.

Serving Suggestions

This Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage is delicious as a hearty main dish on its own—no sides required! But if you want to take your meal to the next level, pair it with a piece of crusty French bread to soak up the savory juices or a crisp green salad to balance the bold flavors.

For an extra Cajun touch, serve with hush puppies or a simple corn on the cob. A dollop of sour cream can tame the heat, and a wedge of lemon cuts through the richness beautifully. For those who crave more heat, have hot sauce at the ready. Don’t forget a cold glass of sweet tea or an ice-cold beer to wash it all down!

Pro Tips & Tricks

Don’t rush browning the meat—golden, crispy edges add great flavor!
Slice the cabbage into bite-size pieces so it cooks evenly and is easy to eat.
If you love extra spicy jambalaya, add cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce while simmering.
Leftover jambalaya tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld—perfect for meal prep.
Make sure to use fully cooked white rice so it doesn’t get mushy. Day-old rice is ideal for texture!
Try topping with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for a fresh pop at serving.

Storage Instructions

Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage stores beautifully, making it ideal for make-ahead lunches or weeknight leftovers. Allow the jambalaya to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, or warm larger amounts in a skillet over medium heat, stirring a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist. For long-term storage, you can freeze jambalaya in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

General Information

Jambalaya is a classic staple of Louisiana Creole cuisine, typically made with rice, a combination of meats, and the “holy trinity” of onions, peppers, and celery. This Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage is a lively variation inspired by those traditions, with cabbage adding both volume and nutrition. It’s a great entry point into Cajun and Creole flavors for home cooks, requiring only basic pantry staples and a single skillet. With a perfect balance of protein, veggies, and Cajun spice, it appeals to busy families, budget-conscious cooks, and anyone looking for a simple, comforting meal bursting with Southern soul.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked rice in this recipe?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked or leftover white rice works perfectly. Day-old rice even helps keep the final dish fluffy instead of mushy.

Is this jambalaya spicy?

The heat level is totally customizable. With just 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, it’s mildly zesty but not overpowering. Add more Cajun seasoning or a splash of hot sauce for a bigger kick.

Can I make Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage ahead of time?

Definitely. This dish tastes even better after the flavors have a chance to meld. Prepare in advance and reheat as needed, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What type of sausage should I use?

Smoked sausage is traditional for Cajun recipes, but you can also use andouille for extra spice or a chicken sausage for a lighter meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Omit the ground beef and sausage, then bulk it up with extra veggies and a plant-based ground or cubed smoked tofu for protein.

How do I keep the cabbage from getting soggy?

Cook just until tender but not mushy—around 10-15 minutes. Stirring occasionally helps cook it evenly.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a soul-warming, crowd-pleasing meal that brings Cajun flavor to your own dinner table, Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage is the answer. This simple, one-skillet recipe combines smoky sausage, hearty ground beef, and sweet cabbage, all layered with the perfect amount of Cajun seasoning and aromatic veggies. It’s quick enough for weeknights and impressive enough for gatherings. With endless options for customization and easy meal-prep potential, this jambalaya will quickly find a place in your recipe repertoire. Gather around the table, dish up a generous serving, and enjoy a little taste of Louisiana—no plane ticket needed!

Nutritional Information

A generous serving of Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage provides a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and healthy carbs. Thanks to the cabbage, this dish offers a good dose of vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants, plus all the satisfaction of a classic jambalaya with fewer calories and more veggies. Using lean ground beef and plenty of vegetables helps keep things lighter than many traditional versions. A typical serving contains approximately 380-420 calories, 22g protein, 18g fat, and 37g carbohydrates. Of course, the nutritional profile will vary based on the exact ingredients and portions used—so feel free to adjust for your dietary needs and goals!