This keto-friendly Cajun sausage zucchini noodle dish delivers bold Southern flavors without the carbs. With spiralized zucchini, smoky Andouille sausage, and a fiery Creole sauce, it's a high-protein, low-carb weeknight meal that keeps you on track with your keto goals.
Looking for a satisfying, carb-conscious dinner? This recipe transforms zucchini into "zoodles" and pairs them with tender sausage and vibrant cherry tomatoes. The result? A dish that's as nutritious as it is flavorful.
Perfect for busy evenings, this meal requires minimal prep and cooks quickly. The Creole sauce adds a spicy kick, while Parmesan cheese provides a rich finish. It's a complete meal that satisfies your cravings without compromising your diet.
Whether you're new to keto or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to customize and packed with Southern charm. Let's dive into why this dish works so well.
Why This Recipe Works
Low-Carb, High-Protein
Zucchini noodles provide just 3g net carbs per serving, while Andouille sausage delivers 20g of protein. Perfect for keto diets.
Quick & Easy
Prep takes 10 minutes, cook time is 20 minutes. Ready in time for your favorite TV show!
Flavor-Packed
Cajun spices, Creole sauce, and Parmesan create a symphony of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors.
Customizable
Swap in chicken sausage, add shrimp, or toss with pesto for endless variations.
Keto-Friendly Cajun Sausage Zoodles
Low-carb Southern flavors in 30 minutes
Ingredients
- - 1 lb Andouille sausage (pre-cooked)
- - 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- - 1/2 cup Creole sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- - 1 tbsp olive oil
- - 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- - 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Prep Zucchini: Spiralize zucchinis and set aside in a colander. Toss with 1 tsp salt, let sit 10 minutes. Squeeze out excess moisture with clean kitchen towels.
💡 Removing moisture prevents soggy noodles.
Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned (5-7 minutes). Add olive oil, garlic powder, and half the Cajun seasoning. Set aside.
💡 Use pre-cooked sausage to save time.
Sauté Veggies: Add cherry tomatoes to skillet. Cook 5 minutes until softened. Add Creole sauce and remaining Cajun seasoning. Simmer 5 minutes.
💡 Creole sauce adds depth and moisture.
Combine: Add zucchini noodles and cooked sausage to skillet. Toss gently to coat. Cook 2-3 minutes until heated through.
💡 Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy noodles.
Serve: Divide among plates. Top with Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve immediately.
💡 Add a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Andouille Sausage
The smoky, spicy flavor of Andouille is essential for authentic Cajun taste. Sub with Italian sausage or chorizo if unavailable.
Substitutions: Chicken sausage (lower sodium), kielbasa
Zucchini
Fresh zucchini yields the best texture. Avoid overcooked noodles to prevent sogginess. Use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
Substitutions: Spaghetti squash, eggplant
Creole Sauce
Store-bought sauces save time, but homemade versions offer more control over sodium and heat levels. Look for "low-sodium" varieties.
Substitutions: Marinara sauce with Cajun seasoning
Parmesan
Grated Parmesan adds richness and balances the spiciness. Freshly grated is best, but pre-grated works in a pinch.
Substitutions: Pecorino Romano, nutritional yeast (vegan)
Pro Tips for Perfect Zoodles
Moisture Control
After spiralizing, salt zucchini noodles and let sit 10 minutes. Squeeze out excess liquid using clean kitchen towels to prevent sogginess.
Spice Balance
Taste Creole sauce before adding. Adjust heat level with more Cajun seasoning or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Tossing Technique
Use tongs to gently toss noodles in skillet. Avoid vigorous stirring which can break noodles.
Cooking Temperature
Cook over medium heat to prevent burning. Sausage should be golden brown, not charred.
Variations & Customizations
Protein Swap
Replace sausage with grilled chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein source. Add 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning to chicken/shrimp before cooking.
Veggie Boost
Add 1 cup chopped bell peppers or spinach to the skillet with tomatoes. Cook 3-4 minutes until tender.
Dairy-Free
Omit Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan version. Add 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil for flavor.
Meal Prep
Store cooked zoodles in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Garlic butter green beans - Adds fiber and vitamins
- Steamed broccoli - Light and nutritious side
- Keto coleslaw - Creamy, crunchy contrast
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a cold lager beer. For non-alcoholic options, try lemonade with a splash of hot sauce.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Pre-spiralize zucchini up to 24 hours in advance. Store in airtight container in fridge with paper towels to absorb moisture.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Best when reheated gently in a skillet.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooked zoodles for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or microwave on high for 1 minute. Add a splash of Creole sauce if desired.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: How to prevent zoodles from getting soggy?
A: Always salt zucchini noodles and let sit 10 minutes. Squeeze out excess moisture thoroughly before cooking.
Q: Can I use frozen zucchini noodles?
A: Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry. Frozen noodles release more moisture during cooking.
Q: How to adjust spice level?
A: Reduce Cajun seasoning or omit cayenne pepper. Add a pinch of sugar to balance heat.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Ensure Creole sauce is gluten-free. Most store-bought varieties are, but check labels.
Final Thoughts
This keto-friendly Cajun sausage zucchini noodle dish is a game-changer for anyone seeking flavorful, low-carb meals. The combination of smoky sausage, fresh zucchini, and bold Creole flavors creates a satisfying dinner that's both nutritious and delicious.
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers big Southern flavor without the guilt. With easy customization options and make-ahead potential, it's a versatile addition to your keto repertoire.
