Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage is one of those recipes that surprises you in the best possible way. Cabbage is often overlooked, but when gently sautéed and wrapped in a rich garlic cream sauce with Parmesan, it becomes silky, savory, and deeply satisfying. This dish is perfect when you want something comforting yet simple, and it pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled meats, or even as a standalone low-carb meal.
I first made this recipe on a weeknight when I needed a quick side dish using ingredients I already had. The result was far better than expected. The cabbage softens without becoming mushy, the garlic infuses the cream with warmth, and the Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth. It feels indulgent but is surprisingly budget-friendly and easy to prepare. If you are looking for a cozy, reliable recipe that elevates humble ingredients into something special, this creamy cabbage dish deserves a spot in your rotation.
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage – A Rich and Comforting Side Dish
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage is a comforting dish made with tender cabbage simmered in a rich garlic cream sauce and finished with savory Parmesan cheese. It works perfectly as a cozy side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main.
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chopped cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring, until slightly softened.
- Pour in vegetable broth and cover; simmer for 10 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
- Add red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Can be served over pasta or alongside roasted meats.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ingredients Breakdown
Green cabbage is the foundation of this recipe. When cooked gently, it becomes tender and slightly sweet, absorbing the flavors of the sauce while maintaining a pleasant bite.
Butter adds richness and helps sauté the cabbage evenly. It provides a smooth base for the garlic and enhances the overall mouthfeel of the dish.
Olive oil works alongside butter to prevent burning and adds a subtle fruity note that balances the creaminess.
Garlic is essential for flavor. Minced garlic releases its aroma quickly and infuses the entire dish with warmth and depth.
Heavy cream creates the luscious, velvety sauce that coats the cabbage. It thickens naturally as it simmers, eliminating the need for flour.
Parmesan cheese contributes saltiness and umami. Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly into the sauce and intensifies the savory profile.
Salt enhances all the flavors and brings out the natural sweetness of the cabbage.
Black pepper adds gentle heat and complexity without overpowering the dish.
Italian seasoning provides subtle herbal notes that complement the garlic and cheese beautifully.
Red pepper flakes are optional but recommended if you enjoy a mild kick that cuts through the creaminess.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Begin by removing any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Slice it in half, remove the core, and cut the cabbage into thin strips. Set aside.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter and olive oil. Once melted and shimmering, add the cabbage. Toss gently to coat and sauté for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and begins to turn lightly golden.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning. The aroma should be fragrant but not sharp.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well, allowing the cream to simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes until it slightly thickens and coats the cabbage.
Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese while stirring. This helps the cheese melt evenly into the sauce without clumping.
Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and cohesive.
Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people as a side dish.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid high heat, as it may cause the sauce to separate.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable and can be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. The sauce will be slightly thinner but still flavorful.
If you enjoy smoky flavors, add cooked bacon or pancetta at the beginning and sauté the cabbage in the rendered fat. The smokiness pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
For a vegetarian protein boost, stir in sautéed mushrooms or white beans during the final simmer. They absorb the sauce and make the dish more filling.
You can also experiment with cheeses. Asiago or Pecorino Romano will give a sharper flavor, while mozzarella creates a milder, stretchy texture.
For added freshness, finish the dish with chopped parsley or chives. If you prefer a hint of acidity, a small squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the entire dish without overpowering it.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbs | 10 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Cook cabbage over medium heat to avoid excess moisture
Gentle heat allows the cabbage to soften and caramelize slightly without becoming watery.
Add cheese gradually
Sprinkling Parmesan slowly prevents clumping and ensures a smooth sauce.
Season at the end
Cabbage reduces as it cooks, so final seasoning gives better control over saltiness.
Use freshly grated Parmesan
Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly and can affect texture.
Adjust thickness easily
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of cream or milk to restore silkiness.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared a day in advance and reheated gently before serving.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it is naturally low in carbohydrates and suitable for a ketogenic diet.
Can I use red cabbage instead?
Red cabbage can be used, but it will change the color and slightly alter the flavor.
What protein pairs best with this dish?
Roasted chicken, pork chops, or grilled sausages work particularly well.
Can I freeze creamy cabbage?
Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat low once the cream is added and avoid boiling.
Can I add onions?
Yes, sauté thinly sliced onions with the cabbage for added sweetness.
Is milk a good substitute for cream?
Milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.
Can I make it dairy-free?
You may try coconut cream and dairy-free cheese, though the flavor will differ.
What herbs work well as garnish?
Parsley, thyme, or chives add freshness and visual appeal.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage transforms a simple vegetable into a rich and comforting dish that feels both indulgent and approachable. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it is an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike. Once you try it, this creamy cabbage is likely to become a staple on your table.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!