Life with three lively kids often means dinner feels like a race against the clock. Some nights, I just need a simple, comforting dish that everyone will actually eat, even the picky eaters! That’s how I discovered the magic of Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage.
I remember one particularly hectic Tuesday; the fridge looked sparse, and I had a lonely head of cabbage staring back at me. I decided to get creative, tossing it with garlic, butter, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. What emerged from the oven was nothing short of miraculous.
The cabbage softened into a tender, buttery dream, infused with rich garlic and salty cheese. My youngest, usually suspicious of anything green, asked for seconds! This Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage quickly became a family favorite, a testament that nourishing meals don’t need to be complicated.
This incredible Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage dish truly brings joy to our table. We adore this delicious Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage.
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Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Keto-friendly, Low-Carb
Description
Life with three lively kids often means dinner feels like a race against the clock. Some nights, a simple, comforting dish that everyone will actually eat, even the picky eaters, is needed. This Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage was discovered on a hectic Tuesday with a lonely head of cabbage, tossing it with garlic, butter, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. What emerged from the oven was miraculous: tender, buttery cabbage infused with rich garlic and salty cheese.
Ingredients
1 medium head Green Cabbage
1/4 cup Unsalted Butter
4-6 cloves Garlic, minced
1/2 cup Chicken or Vegetable Broth
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (optional), chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC)
- Core and chop the cabbage into 1-inch pieces
- Melt the butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sautรฉ for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not brow
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Toss well to coat with butter and garlic
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in salt and pepper
- Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is very tender and “melty.” Stir halfway through
- Remove from the oven. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately
Notes
Use a heavy-bottomed, oven-safe skillet for even cooking; cast iron works wonderfully.
Do not overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches or use a larger pan.
Ensure your skillet is tightly covered during baking as steam is crucial for achieving that soft, “melting” texture.
Don’t rush the baking process; the longer it bakes, the softer and more flavorful the cabbage becomes.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a significant difference in taste.
Instead of green cabbage, you can use savoy or napa cabbage; they also soften beautifully.
For a dairy-free version, swap butter for olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or stir in some crispy bacon bits at the end for extra smoky flavor.
Other herbs like thyme or rosemary can also be incorporated.
Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
While the oven method gives a more even, “melted” consistency, this dish can also be made on the stovetop by simmering on low heat until tender after sautรฉing.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Garlic, Parmesan, Cabbage, Side Dish, Vegetable, Easy, Keto-friendly, Low-Carb, Family Favorite
Table of Contents
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- You absolutely will adore this Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage! First, it is incredibly simple. You need minimal ingredients and basic kitchen skills.
- Furthermore, it transforms humble cabbage into a luxurious, savory side dish. The “melting” texture is truly unique, completely different from crunchy raw cabbage. It is also a fantastic way to sneak in extra vegetables, even for the pickiest eaters.
- This Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage recipe delivers on flavor and ease. My kids devour this Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage. Every time I make Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage, I feel good about serving something wholesome and delicious.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED
Gather these simple ingredients for your delectable Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage. You likely have most on hand already. Creating this amazing Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage starts here.
Making Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage is so easy with these staples.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Cabbage | 1 medium head (about 2 lbs) |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) |
| Garlic | 4-6 cloves, minced |
| Chicken or Vegetable Broth | 1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup, plus more for garnish |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste |
| Fresh Parsley (optional) | 2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish |

SUBSTITUTIONS & VARIATIONS
- Feel free to get creative with your Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage! Instead of green cabbage, use savoy or napa cabbage; they also soften beautifully. For a dairy-free version, swap butter for olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Stir in some crispy bacon bits at the end for extra smoky flavor. You can also incorporate other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- This flexible Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage recipe welcomes your personal touch. Customize your Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage to suit your preferences. Making this Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage your own is fun.
- Looking to expand your repertoire of delectable garlic and Parmesan dishes? If you love the flavors in this melting cabbage, you’ll definitely want to try this amazing Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp for another crowd-pleasing meal.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Making Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a perfect dish.
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
- Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
- Core and chop the cabbage into 1-inch pieces.
- Melt the butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sautรฉ for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not brown.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Toss well to coat with butter and garlic.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in salt and pepper.
- Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is very tender and “melty.” Stir halfway through.
- Remove from the oven. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve your delightful Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage immediately. You will love this method for Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage.
PRO TIPS FOR SUCCESS
Achieve the best Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage with these handy tips. Use a heavy-bottomed, oven-safe skillet for even cooking. Cast iron works wonderfully.
Do not overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches or use a larger pan. Ensure your skillet is tightly covered during baking; this creates steam, helping the cabbage “melt” beautifully. Don’t rush the baking process; the longer it bakes, the softer and more flavorful your Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage becomes.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a significant difference in taste. This ensures your Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage is top-notch.

As you perfect your melting cabbage, remember that the right techniques make all the difference, much like mastering the art of perfectly crispy sides. For another simple yet incredibly satisfying accompaniment, discover how to make Garlic Bread in Air Fryer: The Crispy, Buttery Revelation.
STORAGE & REHEATING TIPS
Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry. This Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH THIS RECIPE
This savory Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage pairs beautifully with so many main dishes. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, pan-seared pork chops, or a simple baked fish. It also complements hearty beef stews or meatloaf.
For a vegetarian meal, enjoy it with a side of quinoa or brown rice. My family loves this Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage with almost anything. Itโs truly versatile.

While this versatile cabbage side dish complements many meals, sometimes you need a quick, flavorful main to complete your spread. If you’re a fan of garlic’s pungent kick, you’ll definitely want to try these delicious Chili Garlic Noodles: Your New Favorite 15-Minute Meal.
FAQS
Can I use different types of cabbage for Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage?
Yes, absolutely! While green cabbage works best for its classic flavor and texture, savoy or napa cabbage also create a delicious Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage. They tend to soften even faster.
Is this Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, this Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly. Cabbage is an excellent low-carb vegetable, and the butter and Parmesan add healthy fats.
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage on the stovetop?
You can! Sautรฉ the cabbage as instructed, then add broth, cover, and simmer on low heat until tender. The oven method, however, gives it a more even, “melted” consistency. This Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage works well both ways.
Why is my Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage not “melting”?
Ensure your skillet is tightly covered during baking. Steam is crucial for achieving that soft, “melting” texture. Also, extend the cooking time if needed; different cabbage varieties or oven inconsistencies can affect the cooking duration. Your Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage needs time to get truly tender.
The concept of ‘melting’ vegetables, like cabbage in this recipe, refers to a cooking technique where vegetables are slowly cooked until they become incredibly tender and almost dissolve in your mouth. This method enhances their natural sweetness and creates a rich, luxurious texture, a culinary approach often utilized in various global cuisines to transform humble produce into delectable dishes. The cabbage itself is a versatile cruciferous vegetable enjoyed worldwide in countless preparations.
NUTRITION INFORMATION (PER SERVING)
This Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage offers great nutrition. This information is approximate for one serving of Garlic Parmesan Melting Cabbage. (Serves 6)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Sodium | 350mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 5g |