Garlic Butter Sautéed Cabbage is a simple and tasty side dish that brings together tender cabbage cooked just right with a rich garlic butter sauce. The cabbage stays slightly crispy, while the garlic adds a wonderful punch of flavor that makes this dish feel extra special.
I love making this dish because it’s quick, easy, and everyone seems to enjoy it. The smell of garlic and butter cooking together always fills the kitchen with such a cozy feeling. A little tip I’ve learned is to make sure the butter is nice and hot before adding the cabbage, so it gets a beautiful golden color without getting soggy.
This garlic butter cabbage goes perfectly with almost any meal, especially alongside roasted meats or grilled chicken. I often serve it with mashed potatoes or rice for a simple and comforting dinner. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something healthy but still full of flavor without a lot of fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage shines here because of its mild flavor and crisp texture. You can swap it for Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage for a softer, more delicate bite.
Butter: Butter adds richness and helps brown the cabbage nicely. For a dairy-free option, try olive oil or vegan butter instead. I sometimes mix butter and olive oil for a nice balance.
Garlic: Fresh garlic works best to give that strong, fresh flavor. Mince it finely so it blends well. Garlic powder can be a last-minute substitute but won’t have the same punch.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a bit of heat. Feel free to skip or swap with a pinch of black pepper or smoked paprika for a different note.
How Do You Cook Cabbage Without It Getting Mushy?
The trick to sautéing cabbage is to keep it tender but not soggy. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with a hot pan and melted butter to get good color and flavor.
- Cook cabbage over medium heat, stirring occasionally, so it softens evenly without releasing too much water.
- Stop cooking when the edges start to golden but the leaves still have a bit of crunch.
- A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the dish and lifts the flavors.
This way, your garlic butter cabbage stays tasty with a nice texture every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I prefer a wide pan so the cabbage cooks evenly and gets some nice browning.
- Garlic mincer or knife – helps you get the garlic finely chopped for a better flavor distribution.
- Measuring spoons – to measure the butter, salt, and spice amounts easily.
- Cooking spoon or spatula – for stirring the cabbage as it cooks and ensuring it doesn’t stick.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use bacon or pancetta bits instead of butter for a smoky flavor and extra richness.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese after cooking for a salty, cheesy touch.
- Stir in chopped cooked mushrooms or sautéed onions for more depth and flavor.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar to give the dish a tangy twist.
Garlic Butter Sautéed Cabbage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 5 minutes prepping the cabbage and garlic, then about 10 minutes cooking and sautéing the cabbage to get that perfect tender-crisp texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cabbage:
Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage, rinse it well under cold water, and slice it thinly into strips. This helps the cabbage cook evenly and quickly.
2. Melt the Butter and Cook Garlic:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Let it melt fully and become fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for 30 seconds to 1 minute until you can smell its lovely aroma, but avoid burning it.
3. Sauté the Cabbage:
Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir well to coat every piece with the garlic butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 to 12 minutes. You want the cabbage to soften and develop golden edges, while still keeping a little crunch.
4. Season and Finish:
Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes over the cabbage and stir to mix in the flavors. If you like, add a splash of lemon juice for brightness and toss in some chopped parsley to garnish.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your garlic butter sautéed cabbage warm as a delicious and healthy side dish. It pairs wonderfully with meat, poultry, or fish. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Cabbage for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh cabbage for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water well before cooking to avoid sogginess.
Can I Substitute Butter with Oil?
Yes! You can use olive oil or any neutral cooking oil instead of butter. Keep in mind the flavor will be less rich, but the dish will still be tasty and healthy.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also toss in some chopped fresh chili peppers during the garlic sauté step for an extra kick.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover sautéed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep it from drying out.