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Melted Cabbage Recipe preparing

Melted Cabbage Recipe: The 7 Ultimate Secrets for the Most Delicious Side Dish

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Transform humble cabbage into a rich, buttery, and savory side dish with this slow-cooked melted cabbage recipe. Simple ingredients and a low-and-slow method create irresistibly tender, caramelized perfection.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1 medium head of green cabbage (about 23 pounds), cored and sliced

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Instructions

1. Core the cabbage and slice it into thin ribbons, about 1/4-inch thick. Thinly slice the onion and mince the garlic; set aside.

2. Place a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil.

3. Once butter is melted and foaming, add sliced onions. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.

4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.

5. Add all of the sliced cabbage to the pot. Stir to coat with the butter, onions, and garlic.

6. Season with salt and pepper, then pour in the broth.

7. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 45–60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.

8. After about an hour, remove the lid. The cabbage should be very tender.

9. Increase heat to medium-high and cook uncovered for 5–10 minutes to evaporate excess liquid and caramelize the edges slightly.

10. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm.

Notes

Use a heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven to prevent scorching and promote even cooking.

Don’t rush the cooking process—low and slow is key to getting the cabbage to “melt.”

For extra flavor, add 4–6 slices of chopped bacon at the start and render the fat before cooking the onions.

Try variations like caraway seeds, fresh thyme, or a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Pairs well with roasted meats, sausages, or even on its own with crusty bread.

  • Author: Jessica Lupone!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop Braising
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 140
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg