Keto Recipes with Smoked Sausage: Delicious Low-Carb Meals

Are you looking for delicious, easy Keto Recipes with Smoked Sausage? Whether you’re new to the keto diet or a seasoned low-carb pro, finding tasty recipes that fit your lifestyle can be challenging. Luckily, there are plenty of creative ways to use smoked sausage in your low-carb meal plan.

One of my favorite benefits of smoked sausage is that it’s already cooked. It is a super quick and easy protein for busy weeknights. It’s also packed with fantastic flavor! From casseroles to skillet meals, plenty of keto-friendly recipes feature savory sausage links as the star ingredient.

I’m going to share some of my most popular, easy smoked sausage recipes. Whether you’re in the mood for something cheesy, spicy, or packed with veggies, I’ve got you covered. Enjoy delicious meals that keep you satisfied and on track with your low-carb goals.

Keto Diet Guidelines Overview

When beginning a ketogenic diet, the goal is to reach and maintain ketosis. According to the Cleveland Clinic, ketosis is a metabolic state in which your body switches to burning fat as the primary fuel source instead of glucose (carbs) (1). This helps promote sustainable weight loss and mental clarity.

How does it work? By significantly limiting carbohydrate intake from foods like grains, starchy vegetables, and sugars to 50g or less per day, your body enters ketosis. With carb intake drastically reduced, your cells begin converting fatty acids into ketones. This puts your metabolism into fat-burning mode!

In order to hit the carb threshold needed for ketosis, focus primarily on very low-carb vegetables, high-quality proteins like grass-fed meats, wild-caught seafood, pasture-raised poultry, and fats from whole food sources. You can try things like olives, avocados, nut butter, and rich extra virgin olive oils.

With ketosis as your goal, you can ditch the sugar crashes and enjoy steady, clean-burning energy by tapping into your body’s stored fat reserves. I know this seems so difficult. Not lying there can be hard, days, weeks, and months. However, by combining flavorful ingredients like a smoked sausage with vegetables, zoodles, and other creative veggie swaps hitting those macros can be satisfying, too!

By adapting one or two very low-carb recipes weekly helps you start leveraging the power of ketosis more often. Over time, fat adaption creates better energy, easier weight management and glowing health.

We have always tried to eat lower-carb since my husband and daughter are both Type 1 Diabetics. I was pretty familiar with carb counting so when I was introduced to the keto diet I took it and ran.

What Foods to Eat / Avoid on the Keto Diet

Picking the right foods can be such a tricky thing! Sometimes your mind says this is low-carb only to find out there are some hidden ingredients that make it a bad option! Some sausages contain fillers such as breadcrumbs and other ingredients high in carbs. You should look for sausages made with high-quality meats and natural ingredients.

There are some vegetables like potatoes and carrots that are high in carbs. Avoid these to the best of your ability. Instead, focus on low-carb vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, asparagus, cabbage, and zucchini.

Stay away from high-carb sauces and marinades, opting for herbs and spices. Some good options include garlic, ginger, cumin, and paprika.

By following these tips, you can create delicious keto sausage recipes that are both healthy and satisfying.

Different Smoked Sausage Varieties

So, my family absolutely loves sausage. Any and every kind! It comes in several types. A few popular choices include Andouille, Kielbasa, and Chorizo. Each type has its unique flavor profile and texture.

Types of Smoked Sausage

• Andouille Sausage: This spicy smoked sausage originated in Louisiana. It is made with pork and has a coarse texture. Andouille is often used with a cajun flare in dishes such as gumbo and jambalaya.
• Kielbasa Sausage: A smoked sausage that originated in Poland. It’s made with pork and beef and has a slightly sweet flavor. Kielbasa is often used in dishes such as stews and casseroles.
• Chorizo Sausage: This sausage originated in Spain. It is made with pork and has a crumbly texture. Chorizo is used in Spanish and Mexican dishes such as paella and tacos.

Our favorite is the kielbasa. It is mild and can be used in so many dishes!

Best Brands to Buy

For those living a low-carb life, choosing a brand that is low in carbs and free from additives and fillers is essential. Here are a few keto-friendly brands to consider:

• Pederson’s Farms: This brand offers various smoked sausages free from sugar and additives. Their products have high-quality ingredients, such as pastured pork and grass-fed beef.
• Applegate Farms: Applegate Farms offers various smoked sausages free from antibiotics and added hormones. Their products are made with simple ingredients such as pork and spices.
• Aidells: Aidells offers a variety of smoked sausages that are free from nitrites and nitrates. Their products have high-quality ingredients such as chicken and applewood smoked bacon.

Keto Smoked Sausage Recipe Collection

If you’re low-carb, smoked sausage can be a great ingredient to add to your meals. I love it for my family because it’s high in protein and fat and low in carbs, making it a perfect fit for a keto lifestyle. Here are some delicious, easy, low-carb recipes with smoked sausage that you can try:

Savory Sausage Skillet Meals

Smoked Sausage and Cabbage Recipe

This simple, flavor-packed Keto-Smoked Sausage and Cabbage Skillet will satisfy your craving for warm comfort food. Bursting with savory, smoky sausage flavor perfectly balanced by sweet caramelized cabbage and onion, it’s an easy, low-carb, family-friendly one-pan smoked sausage and vegetable recipe. You’ll love how quickly it comes together for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• Smoked Sausage – This recipe features smoked sausage as the protein. I opted for a nitrate-free beef sausage, but feel free to substitute it with your favorite variety, like chicken, kielbasa, or turkey.
• Butter – Adds additional flavor and fat to the dish.
• Diced Onion & Minced Garlic – Garlic enhances the aroma and depth of the recipe, while the onions add a delicious, rich flavor.
• Fresh Cabbage – Cabbage is a great partner with many proteins, especially smoked sausage.
• Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce – Here is my homemade keto BBQ sauce for a sweet, smokey flavor with a little kick.
• Water – Used for steaming the cabbage.

Keto Smoked Sausage with Peppers and Onions Skillet

This Keto Sausage with Peppers & Onions Skillet will be a home run for your entire family! Use only one skillet and a few simple ingredients to create a healthy meal for busy nights. I guarantee this easy keto 30-minute meal will become a favorite. This would be my hubby’s favorite.

Ingredients

• Butter – Gives the sauteed garlic additional flavor and can help keep the ingredients from sticking.
• Smoked Sausage – I used beef smoked sausage in this recipe. Pork or chicken are also options.
• Green Bell Peppers, Onion, and Garlic – The perfect blend of veggies.
• Braggs Aminos – This soy sauce is a healthier alternative and adds flavor to this recipe!
• Seasonings – Season to taste with your favorite seasonings.

 Keto Sheet Pan Meals

Keto Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies

This Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies Recipe is your new weeknight best friend. Juicy smoked sausage and veggies are roasted perfectly on one pan, drastically cutting clean-up time. It all happens in the oven or air fryer in less than 30 minutes, meaning you’ll be eating soon! And the best part? You barely have to wash any dishes! Now that’s a win.

Ingredients

• Smoked Sausage – My favorite sausage to use for this dish is smoked sausage or kielbasa. It has excellent flavor and seems to be easier to slice.
• Vegetables – Use low-carb vegetables in this keto sheet pan meal, like zucchini, green or red bell pepper, broccoli, squash, and onions.
• Seasoning – My family loves Old Bay seasoning. The bold, well-balanced flavor reminds us of summer.

Low-Carb Smoked Sausage Soups

Low-Carb Cheesy Smoked Sausage Soup

Easy cheesy smoked sausage soup will instantly become a fave! This low-carb soup packs huge flavor into every bowl using simple ingredients. This recipe proves soups can be comforting, not boring!

Ingredients

• Olive Oil – Coconut Oil or Avocado Oil are also options.
• Smoked Sausage – The ball is in your court. Pick your favorite type of smoked sausage.
• Radishes chopped into cubes – Wash, clean, and cube. Great substitutes for potatoes.
• Butter – Salted or unsalted butter will work here; butter adds fat and flavor to the soup.
• Onion, Celery, Garlic Cloves – Fresh veggies add depth and taste.
• Chicken Broth – This soup has a broth base. Bone broth is another option.
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Adding the soup becomes creamier with additional fat.
• Cheddar Cheese & Gouda Cheese – Many cheeses work, but I like using various cheese types to play with the flavor.
• Xanthan Gum – A keto-friendly thickening agent.
• Paprika, Parsley, Salt & Pepper – Seasonings for flavor.

Sausage Appetizers

Low-Carb Sausage Platter with Cheese and Pickles

This fun, tasty appetizer is a total winner! This low-carb sausage platter combines savory sliced sausages, cheddar, and perfectly crunchy pickles. It’s perfect for a party or even just snack time at home. And no worries – it 100% fits the plan for your low-carb lifestyle.

Ingredients

• Smoked Sausage — I prefer all-beef sausage in this recipe. You will need approximately 14 oz. of smoked sausage. You can substitute chicken or pork sausage.
• Cheese Cubes — Cheese makes everything better, right? You can pick your favorite type of cheese, but I used Monterrey Jack cheese cubes and halved each cube to make them a little smaller.
• Pickles — Pickles add a vinegary punch that balances the richness of the sausage and cheese. I prefer dill pickle spears chopped.
• Banana Peppers — The banana peppers give an acidic bite to the sausage platter. This is an optional ingredient.
• Old Bay Seasoning — Old Bay is an excellent compliment to the ingredients’ smoky, cheesy, salty, and acidic flavors. You can substitute your favorite seasoning (cajun, chili powder, or smoked paprika) if you do not have any.

 Smoked Sausage in the Air Fryer

Prepare to bite into the tender, juicy, air-fried sausage wrapped in unbelievingly crisp, caramelized smokiness. Kielbasa, Andouilli, Chorizo – use your fave! The air fryer transforms the sausage in just minutes flat. Whether enjoying it as a hearty, healthy snack or serving a batch to friends or family, these crave-worthy smoked sausages will become your next go-to dish. I am addicted to cooking in the air fryer. It is so quick and clean up is a breeze.

Ingredients

• Smoked Sausage – This air fryer recipe can use any smoked sausage. Use 12 – 24 oz. of your favorite sausage.
• Seasoning – Use the seasoning of your choice.
• Olive Oil – The slices can crisp up without drying out by brushing a light layer onto the sausage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is smoked sausage keto-friendly?

Good news! Most popular smoked sausages perfectly fit into a keto lifestyle, providing hearty protein and fat to fuel you without carby fillers. I look for quality sausage picks without sugars or starches. Enjoy classic smoked kielbasa, summer sausage, andouille, chorizo, and poultry links.

How much smoked sausage can I eat per day on keto?

Smoked sausages can be enjoyed in moderation when doing keto. I recommend keeping portions around 4 ounces to align with your daily macros. Focus on listening to your body’s healthy hunger cues rather than overdoing it.

What are the best ways to cook with smoked sausage on keto?

Smoked sausage is so versatile for keto and low-carb recipes! Slice it up and cook in healthy fats like olive oil or avocado oil, serve with low-carb veggies for sheet pan meals, stir sausage crumbles into egg scrambles or casseroles, mix into a soup or cheesy skillet bake, or enjoy sausage snacks paired with nuts and low-glycemic fruits. With so many tasty options, there’s no shortage of delicious ways to enjoy smoked sausage and stay within your low-carb goals.

I hope you’ve discovered some mouthwatering new ways to enjoy your favorite smoked sausages while maintaining your keto or low-carb lifestyle. With options from easy skillet meals to tempting appetizers and everything in between, you can keep your family happy and stay on track with your goals.

As you try these recipes, feel free to tweak them to suit your tastes – add a little more heat, mix up the veggies, or adjust seasonings based on your preferences. Be creative and share your recipe in the comments below.

1. Cleveland Clinic medical professional. (2022, August 15). Ketosis: What it is, benefits & side effects. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24003-ketosis