Garlic Butter Sautéed Cabbage is a simple and tasty side dish that brings out the sweet and mild flavor of cabbage with a rich garlic butter twist. The cabbage gets tender and lightly caramelized while soaking up all the buttery garlic goodness, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
I love making this dish because it’s so quick and easy, yet feels like a special treat. The smell of garlic melting in butter right on the stove always makes me excited to eat. A little sprinkle of salt and pepper is all it takes to bring the flavors together perfectly. Sometimes I add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten things up — it really wakes up the whole dish!
This garlic butter sautéed cabbage goes great alongside grilled meats or roasted chicken, but honestly, I’m happy eating it on its own as a cozy little veggie side. It’s one of those dishes that reminds me of home cooking — simple, comforting, and super satisfying. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Fresh green cabbage is best for this recipe since it’s mild and tender when cooked. If you want a twist, try savoy or Napa cabbage for a softer texture. You can also use red cabbage for color, but cooking time may vary.
Butter: Butter adds rich flavor and helps brown the cabbage nicely. If you prefer, olive oil or vegan butter work well too, just keep in mind the taste will change slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes a big difference here. Minced garlic releases its aroma quickly and infuses the butter. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can be used, though the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
Seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential to enhance the natural sweetness of the cabbage. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat—it gives a nice kick without overpowering.
How Do You Get Perfectly Tender, Yet Slightly Crispy Cabbage?
Cooking cabbage so it’s soft but still has a bit of crunch takes some balance. Here’s what helps:
- Start by melting the butter on medium heat until foamy, then add garlic. Cook garlic just 1 minute to avoid burning, which tastes bitter.
- Add cabbage and stir well to coat every piece in the garlic butter.
- Cook the cabbage uncovered, stirring occasionally to let steam escape. This prevents sogginess and encourages gentle browning.
- Cook around 8-12 minutes. Keep an eye for edges turning golden brown—that adds great flavor and texture.
- Taste as you go and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes once cabbage softens but still holds its shape.
One tip I like: don’t overcrowd the pan. Using a large skillet gives the cabbage room to cook evenly and crisp up nicely on the edges. Enjoy your tasty, perfectly sautéed cabbage!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan – I like a wide pan to give the cabbage room to cook evenly and brown a bit.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – makes stirring easy without scratching the pan.
- Measuring spoons – to measure the butter and garlic precisely.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping the garlic and shredding the cabbage.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use smoked paprika or cumin for a smoky or warm spice flavor.
- Stir in cooked bacon bits or sausage for extra meatiness.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten the taste.
- Mix in sautéed onions or shallots for extra sweetness and depth.
How to Make Garlic Butter Sautéed Cabbage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium green cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Optional garnish: freshly chopped parsley or scallions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 10-12 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for a last-minute side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cabbage:
Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage, then slice it into thin strips or shred it. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s foamy and smells fragrant. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly so the garlic doesn’t burn.
3. Cook the Cabbage:
Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Stir well to coat every piece with the garlic butter. Cook the cabbage, stirring occasionally, for 8-12 minutes. It should become tender and start to develop a golden brown color around the edges.
4. Season and Serve:
Season the cabbage with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Stir everything together and taste to adjust seasoning. Remove from heat, then optionally garnish with chopped parsley or scallions before serving.
Enjoy your delicious, buttery, garlicky sautéed cabbage as a warm and tasty side dish!
Can I Use Frozen Cabbage for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before cooking. This helps prevent the dish from becoming too soggy.
Can I Substitute Butter with Oil?
Absolutely! Olive oil or avocado oil work well as substitutes if you prefer a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that butter adds a rich, creamy flavor that oil can’t fully replicate.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover sautéed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add sliced onions, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots when cooking for extra flavor and texture. Just sauté them a bit before adding the cabbage for the best results.