If you’re searching for a dish that effortlessly combines comfort and elegance, look no further than the Marry Me Melting Cabbage: A Creamy Delight for Dinner Recipe. This recipe transforms humble cabbage into tender, golden wedges bathed in a luscious cream sauce flecked with sun-dried tomatoes and rich Parmesan. The slow roasting allows the cabbage to develop incredible depth, while the creamy, herb-infused sauce makes every bite irresistibly comforting. It’s a perfect dish to impress your family or guests without fussing over complicated steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredients simple and wholesome is key to bringing out the natural flavors in this dish. Each component plays an essential role — from the sturdy green cabbage that holds its shape beautifully to the bouquet of herbs that add aromatic complexity.
- 1 head green cabbage: This hearty vegetable becomes wonderfully tender and flavorful when roasted.
- 3 tbsps olive oil: Adds a rich base and helps the cabbage develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust.
- 2 tbsps butter: Contributes to a silky sauce texture with a subtle richness.
- 0.5 cup finely diced red onion: Provides a natural sweetness that deepens the overall flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Introduces fragrant warmth and mouthwatering aroma.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Delivers a savory base without overwhelming the dish.
- 4 oz. full-fat cream cheese: Creates the creamy heart of the sauce with luscious texture.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luxurious richness that ties all the flavors together.
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Brings tangy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Lends an Italian-inspired herbal note that enhances the sauce.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Complements cream sauces with subtle earthiness.
- 0.5 tsp dried rosemary: Adds fragrant warmth that elevates the dish.
- 1 tsp table salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors perfectly.
- 0.5 tsp black pepper: Introduces gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Takes the heat up a notch if you like a little kick.
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Enriches the sauce with nutty, savory depth.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh pop of green and brightness to finish.
- Extra Parmesan (for serving): A final sprinkle for the perfect cheesy touch.
How to Make Marry Me Melting Cabbage: A Creamy Delight for Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Cabbage
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the head of cabbage into 8 wedges, but keep the core intact so the wedges stay together. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear each cabbage wedge for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Don’t forget to season lightly with salt and pepper during this step — it’s essential for flavor building early on.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, toss in the finely diced red onion and sauté it gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and becomes sweet. Immediately add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this is the moment when your kitchen will start smelling irresistible.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, using a spatula to scrape up all those golden browned bits stuck to the pan because that’s where deep flavor hides. Next, whisk in the cream cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the broth. Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme, rosemary, the remaining salt and pepper, and if you are adventurous, red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Let the sauce gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes while all the ingredients harmonize.
Step 4: Add the Final Touches and Bake
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and contributes a savory, cheesy richness to the sauce. Now nestle the cabbage wedges back into the skillet, generously spooning the creamy sauce over each wedge so they’re richly coated. Cover the whole skillet tightly with foil and pop it into the oven to bake for about 45 minutes.
Step 5: Finish with a Golden, Tender Bake
After the covered baking time, uncover the skillet and baste the cabbage with any sauce pooled on top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender when pierced with a fork. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes once out of the oven before garnishing with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese. You’ll be amazed at how silky and flavorful this dish turns out.
How to Serve Marry Me Melting Cabbage: A Creamy Delight for Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate your Marry Me Melting Cabbage: A Creamy Delight for Dinner Recipe wonderfully. Fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that cuts through the creaminess. A final scatter of extra Parmesan cheese adds a delightful salty crunch that makes every bite pop.
Side Dishes
This creamy cabbage pairs beautifully with light, crisp side dishes to balance its richness. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, or roasted baby potatoes tossed in olive oil and rosemary, would be ideal. You might also consider serving it alongside some crusty artisan bread — perfect for soaking up all that incredible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping dinner, serve each wedge elegantly on individual plates with a drizzle of the sauce spooned liberally over the top. Garnish with a bit more parsley and Parmesan, and maybe a few sun-dried tomato pieces for visual appeal. You could also present it family-style in the skillet — it creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages sharing and lively conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover Marry Me Melting Cabbage: A Creamy Delight for Dinner Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When refrigerated, the cabbage continues to absorb the sauce flavors, making it even better the next day. Just keep the garnish separate and add fresh parsley when serving again.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal due to the cream-based sauce, which can sometimes separate upon thawing. If you decide to freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and prepare to reheat gently.
Reheating
To reheat the Marry Me Melting Cabbage: A Creamy Delight for Dinner Recipe, warm it slowly over low heat on the stovetop or in a microwave-safe dish. Stir occasionally to help the sauce come back together. If it appears too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up and preserve that perfectly creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage?
While green cabbage is preferred for its firm texture and mild flavor, you can try savoy or Napa cabbage for a slightly different texture. Keep in mind that softer varieties may cook faster and might require less baking time.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
This version uses chicken broth, but you can substitute vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly without compromising the delicious depth of flavor. The creamy sauce and herbs provide plenty of taste to keep it hearty.
Can I add protein to the dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken breast, sautéed mushrooms, or even crispy tofu would pair wonderfully with the creamy cabbage. Just cook the protein separately and serve it alongside or on top of the cabbage wedges.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The addition of red pepper flakes gives a gentle warmth that enhances the flavor without overwhelming the palate. You can easily omit it for a milder taste or increase the amount if you love a kick of spice.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce thickens too much during cooking or reheating, simply stir in a little extra chicken broth or cream to loosen it to your desired consistency. The sauce should be silky and coat the cabbage without being gloopy.
Final Thoughts
The Marry Me Melting Cabbage: A Creamy Delight for Dinner Recipe is truly a dish to remember, perfect for turning an everyday vegetable into a centerpiece that feels indulgent and special. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a cozy family meal or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Give it a try—you’re going to love how effortlessly delicious this creamy cabbage can be!
Print
Marry Me Melting Cabbage: A Creamy Delight for Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Marry Me Melting Cabbage is a luscious, creamy cabbage dish that combines tender roasted cabbage wedges with a rich, cheesy sun-dried tomato cream sauce. This comforting dinner recipe features caramelized flavors from seared cabbage and a velvety sauce enhanced by herbs and Parmesan, perfect as a satisfying vegetarian main or side dish.
Ingredients
Cabbage and Cooking Base
- 1 head green cabbage (a hearty base that transforms beautifully when roasted)
- 3 tbsps olive oil (adds richness and helps achieve a golden-brown crust)
- 2 tbsps butter (enhances flavor and gives the sauce a silky texture)
Sauté and Sauce
- 0.5 cup finely diced red onion (adds sweetness and depth)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced for aromatic goodness)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (provides a flavorful base)
- 4 oz. full-fat cream cheese (creates creaminess)
- 1 cup heavy cream (adds richness)
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes (delivers tangy flavor)
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 tsp dried oregano (imparts Italian aroma)
- 1 tsp dried thyme (complements creamy sauces)
- 0.5 tsp dried rosemary (adds fragrance)
- 1 tsp table salt (brings flavors together)
- 0.5 tsp black pepper (adds warmth)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Cheese and Garnish
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese (enriches the sauce)
- Chopped fresh parsley (adds freshness)
- Extra Parmesan (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the cabbage and sauce together, ensuring even cooking and melding of flavors.
- Prepare Cabbage Wedges: Slice the head of green cabbage into 8 wedges, keeping the core intact so the wedges hold together during cooking.
- Sear Cabbage: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cabbage wedges and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Sauté the finely diced red onion for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Deglaze with Broth: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, scraping the skillet’s browned bits from the bottom to incorporate rich flavors into the liquid base.
- Create Creamy Sauce: Add the cream cheese to the skillet and whisk it into the broth until fully melted and smooth, forming a creamy sauce foundation.
- Add Cream and Seasonings: Stir in heavy cream, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, along with the remaining salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer the mixture for 2-3 minutes to marry the flavors.
- Melt Parmesan: Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and incorporates fully into the sauce, enriching its texture and flavor.
- Combine Cabbage and Sauce: Nestle the seared cabbage wedges back into the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the tops to coat each wedge thoroughly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the skillet tightly with foil to trap steam and bake for about 45 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften and absorb the creamy sauce.
- Baste and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and baste the cabbage with additional sauce from the skillet. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until the cabbage is fork-tender and the sauce slightly thickens.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes to settle. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving to add freshness and a final savory touch.
Notes
- Keep the core intact when slicing cabbage wedges to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
- You can substitute vegetable broth to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream to achieve the richest, creamiest texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to preserve the sauce’s texture.
