Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage That Melts in Your Mouth
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 head Green Cabbage; 2 tablespoons Butter; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1 cup Yellow Onion (Chopped); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated); 1 teaspoon Cajun Seasoning; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped)

The aroma of sautéed garlic hung in the air as I rushed to the stove, craving something simple yet extraordinary. Enter my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage—a dish that transforms humble cabbage into an unforgettable side that you’ll want to keep on repeat. In just 30 minutes, crispy pan-seared wedges meld with a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor and a hint of Cajun spice. Whether you’re serving it up alongside grilled meats for dinner or featuring it as a star at a gathering, this low-carb and keto-friendly recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s vegetarian and incredibly versatile, allowing for creative substitutions to suit pantry staples or dietary needs. Ready to elevate your meal game? Let’s dive in!

Why is Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: The rich and creamy sauce, combined with roasted garlic and Parmesan, will make your taste buds dance with delight.

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into your busy weeknight routine without sacrificing flavor.

Versatile Ingredient: Use it as a side for grilled meats, or serve it on its own as a standout vegetarian main.

Health-Conscious: Low-carb and keto-friendly, it’s a guilt-free way to indulge in a luxurious meal. Pair it with sides like Garlic Pasta Comfort for an extra flavor boost!

Crowd-Pleaser: From family dinners to festive gatherings, this creamy cabbage dish is sure to impress guests and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Transform your cooking experience with this beloved recipe!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage Ingredients

• Transform your everyday meals with these delightful ingredients!

For the Cabbage

Green Cabbage – A versatile base ingredient that provides a satisfying texture.
Butter – Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown sear.
Olive Oil – Great for cooking; feel free to substitute with any cooking oil you have on hand.

For the Sauce

Yellow Onion – Brings a touch of sweetness and depth; you can swap it with red onion if you prefer.
Garlic – Essential for flavor; fresh, minced garlic provides the best aroma and taste.
Heavy Cream – Creates a rich and creamy sauce; for lighter variations, consider using coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Cheese – Packed with umami and adds thickness to the sauce; freshly grated is best for melty goodness.
Cajun Seasoning – Adds a delightful hint of heat; paprika can be used for a milder version.
Salt and Pepper – Adjust to taste to suit your unique preferences.
Fresh Parsley – For garnish and a fresh flavor punch; can be replaced with chives if desired.

Elevate your culinary creations with this creamy garlic parmesan cabbage recipe that’s not only delicious but also low-carb and satisfying!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage

Step 1: Sear Cabbage
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and is bubbly, carefully add quartered wedges of green cabbage. Sear each wedge for 3-4 minutes on one side until it’s beautifully golden brown, then flip and repeat on the other side. Remove the cabbage from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 1 chopped yellow onion to the leftover oil and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn soft and golden. This adds a lovely sweetness to the dish and builds the foundation of flavor for the creamy garlic Parmesan cabbage.

Step 3: Add Garlic
Next, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning into the sautéed onions. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden. This step enhances the aroma and adds depth to your sauce that complements the cabbage perfectly.

Step 4: Prepare Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to incorporate all those delicious flavors. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Return Cabbage
Carefully return the seared cabbage wedges to the skillet, spooning the rich sauce over each piece. Partially cover the skillet and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to absorb the flavors and become fork-tender while still maintaining a bit of crunch.

Step 6: Serve
Once the cabbage is perfectly tender, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Transfer your creamy garlic Parmesan cabbage to a serving dish, garnishing with additional parsley for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful side dish alongside your favorite main courses!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage and make it uniquely yours!

Red Cabbage: Swap green cabbage for vibrant red cabbage to add color and slightly different flavor notes.
Bacon Boost: Crumble crispy cooked bacon or sausage into the dish for a savory, meaty twist that adds depth.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream or another plant-based alternative instead of heavy cream for a lighter, dairy-free version.
Add More Veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach or mushrooms during the sautéing step for added nutrition and flavor.
Spice it Up: For a fiery kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper alongside the Cajun seasoning.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in place of parsley for a fragrant twist.
Garlic Lover’s Dream: Increase the garlic quantity for a more pronounced flavor explosion that will awaken your taste buds.
Pasta Lovers: Mix the creamy cabbage with cooked pasta for a hearty, comforting main dish that marries flavors deliciously.

Whether you want to make it spicier or try a whole new twist, there’s no limit to the delightful variations you can create with this recipe! And for a truly comforting meal, don’t forget to pair it with Garlic Pasta Comfort or Chicken Ramen Garlic for an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage

Fridge: Allow leftovers to cool, then store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheating in a skillet over low heat will help maintain the dish’s creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently warm in a skillet with a splash of cream or water to reincorporate the sauce. Avoid high heat to prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy.
Make-Ahead: Prep the ingredients in advance and cook them just before serving for the freshest flavor; this works wonderfully for gatherings!

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage

Looking to create a meal that will wow your family or guests? Pairing options can help transform a simple dish into a delightful dining experience!

Grilled Chicken: Juicy and smoky grilled chicken complements the creamy sauce beautifully, making it a protein-rich pairing. The savory flavors harmonize perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini adds color and a touch of sweetness, creating a wonderful contrast to the savory cabbage.
Buttery Mashed Cauliflower: This low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes offers a creamy texture that echoes the richness of the sauce, achieving a satisfying plate.
Crispy Bacon: Add a sprinkle of crispy bacon on top for a delicious crunch and salty bite that enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Fresh Green Salad: A light, tangy salad of mixed greens with vinaigrette will refresh the palate and balance the richness of the creamy garlic parmesan cabbage.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to mop up the sumptuous sauce, making every bite as enjoyable as possible. It’s perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness!
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay harmonizes beautifully with the dish, its crispness cutting through the creaminess while enhancing the garlic and parmesan flavors.

These delightful pairings will elevate your dining table, ensuring that your creamy garlic parmesan cabbage shines as the star of the meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage wedges are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to save time without compromising flavor! You can prep the cabbage by searing the wedges up to 24 hours in advance and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce can also be made ahead; simply prepare it and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain the dish’s deliciousness, reheat the cabbage and sauce separately, combining them in a skillet over low heat before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy a rich, creamy side dish that tastes just as decadent as when freshly made, making your meal prep breeze!

Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage

Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure you give enough space between cabbage wedges when searing. This promotes even browning and enhances flavor.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for a smoother melt in your creamy sauce.
Mind the Cooking Time: Let the cabbage cook until it’s fork-tender but still retains a slight crunch for the best texture in your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage.
Customize Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to suit your taste buds; start with less if you’re unsure about the spice level.
Experiment with Substitutes: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients! For instance, use coconut cream for a dairy-free sauce or red cabbage for a vibrant twist.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing green cabbage, look for heads that feel heavy for their size, with tightly packed leaves that are crisp and without dark spots. Fresh cabbage will have a vibrant, pale green color and feel firm to the touch. If you spot any brown edges or wilting, it’s best to avoid those.

How should I store leftovers of my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage?
Very! Let the leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can refrigerate them for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.

Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage?
Absolutely! To freeze this delicious dish, allow the cabbage to cool and then place it in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a little liquid if needed.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of heavy cream or water and stir it gently over low heat until desired consistency is achieved. This can be done during the reheating process as well, ensuring that your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage maintains that dreamy, saucy texture.

Is this dish suitable for people with lactose intolerances?
For sure! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative to create a delicious dairy-free version without losing flavor. Just as tasty and creamy!

What other veggies can I add to my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cabbage?
The more the merrier! You can enhance this dish by incorporating other vegetables such as sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even bell peppers. Simply add them during the sautéing step with the onions for an extra flavor and nutritional boost!