Garlic Butter Sautéed Cabbage is a simple and tasty side dish that brings out the natural sweetness and crunch of cabbage with a rich, buttery garlic flavor. The tender, slightly caramelized cabbage leaves mix perfectly with the fragrant garlic, making every bite full of comfort and warmth.
I love making this dish because it’s quick to prepare but feels special enough to serve with just about any meal. A little tip I have is to let the cabbage cook slowly in the butter so it gets that soft, golden edge without losing its fresh texture. The smell of garlic cooking in butter always fills the kitchen and makes me excited to eat.
This sautéed cabbage pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork chops, or even just some crusty bread on the side. It’s one of those easy recipes that can turn a simple dinner into something cozy and satisfying. Whenever I make it, people often ask for seconds—that’s how good it is!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: This recipe shines with green cabbage, but savoy or napa cabbage works well too. They offer a milder, crunchier bite. I like using fresh, firm heads for the best texture.
Butter: Butter adds a rich, creamy flavor. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil or vegan butter—it won’t be quite the same but still tasty.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for the best aroma and taste. Mince it finely so it cooks evenly without burning. Garlic powder can be a last-minute swap but lacks that fresh punch.
Green Onions: These are optional but add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color. If you don’t have them, chives or parsley also work well.
How Do You Get the Perfect Tender Yet Slightly Crisp Sautéed Cabbage?
Getting cabbage tender while keeping a bit of crunch is all about timing and heat control. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with medium heat to melt the butter and gently infuse it with garlic flavor without burning.
- Add the cabbage, stirring well to coat with butter and garlic evenly.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring every few minutes. This slow cooking softens cabbage while letting some edges brown lightly.
- Avoid stirring too often; a little browning adds nice flavor depth.
- Season toward the end to prevent drawing out too much water early, which can make cabbage soggy.
These steps help your cabbage stay tender and flavorful with a pleasant texture—not mushy and not raw.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I prefer a wide pan so the cabbage cooks evenly and browns nicely.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – makes stirring gentle and easy without scratching the skillet.
- Knife and cutting board – helpful for slicing the cabbage thinly so it cooks quickly and evenly.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate butter and seasoning amounts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked bacon or pancetta for smoky richness—perfect for a heartier side.
- Stir in a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar at the end for extra depth and tang.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan or crumbled feta after cooking for a cheesy, salty finish.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to add more veggies and flavors.
How to Make Garlic Butter Sautéed Cabbage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty side dish takes about 15 minutes total: 5 minutes to prep the cabbage and garlic, and around 8-10 minutes to sauté until tender and delicious. It’s fast and easy to whip up anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cabbage:
Start by removing any tough outer leaves from the cabbage. Then, slice the cabbage thinly into strips so it cooks quickly and evenly.
2. Melt Butter and Cook Garlic:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt until it starts to foam. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until you smell that wonderful garlic aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic burn!
3. Sauté the Cabbage:
Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet, stirring it around so every piece gets coated with the garlic butter. Cook the cabbage for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it to become tender but still have a bit of crunch, and look for some golden brown edges—it adds great flavor.
4. Season and Garnish:
Season to your taste with salt and black pepper. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Once done, remove your pan from heat and top the cabbage with chopped green onions if you want a fresh and colorful touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the garlic butter sautéed cabbage warm. It makes a perfect side dish for dinners or cozy weeknight meals. Enjoy the easy, buttery garlic goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Cabbage for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh cabbage for the best texture and flavor. If you only have frozen cabbage, thaw it completely and drain any excess water before sautéing to avoid sogginess.
How Should I Store Leftover Sautéed Cabbage?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a little butter or oil if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots while sautéing. Just add them at the start with the cabbage so everything cooks evenly.
Is There a Substitute for Butter?
Yes! You can use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative to keep it dairy-free. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.