Looking for a fast, flavour-packed side dish that works with just about any main? This garlic butter sautéed cabbage is the answer. With sweet, caramelized onions, fragrant garlic, and tender-crisp cabbage, this one-pan wonder is perfect for weeknight dinners or simple meal prep. It’s gluten-free, keto-friendly, and easily made vegan, all in under 15 minutes.
Why This Garlic Butter Sautéed Cabbage Shines
Cabbage is a true kitchen staple. It is affordable, hearty, and surprisingly flavorful when cooked correctly. Sautéing over medium-high heat brings out its natural sweetness while creating crispy golden edges. Minimal stirring helps develop a rich, smoky flavour that transforms cabbage from basic to crave-worthy. Green cabbage is the best choice for this dish due to its firm texture. Red or Savoy cabbage is an excellent alternative for a pop of colour or a softer bite.
Ingredients (Serves four as a side)
- 1 small green cabbage (about 1.5 lbs), cored and thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter (or olive oil for a vegan option).
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Flavor Boosters:
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for tang)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (for gentle heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Cabbage
Remove the outer leaves, quarter the cabbage, and slice into thin (¼-inch) strips.
2. Sauté Onion & Garlic
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and lightly browned. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Cabbage
Add sliced cabbage to the skillet. Toss the ingredients to coat them, then spread them into an even layer. Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the edges to caramelize. Stir and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until tender but still slightly crunchy.
4. Season & Serve
Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices. If using, add vinegar, toss well, and serve hot.
Garlic Butter Sautéed Cabbage: Quick, Crispy & Irresistibly Savory!
Ingredients
- 1 small green cabbage
- 1 small Red onion chopped
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp salt and pepper or to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
- Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cabbage to the skillet. Toss to coat in butter, then spread evenly.
- Let cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to caramelize. Stir once, then cook another 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Season with salt, pepper. Toss and serve warm!
Notes
Please note that the nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary significantly based on the products used in the recipe
Nutrition
Serving Suggestions
- With Protein: Complements roasted chicken, salmon, beef, or tofu
- Low-Carb Bowl: Top with a fried egg, avocado slices, and hot sauce
- German-Style: Serve with sausages and mustard for a rustic meal
Pro Tips for Perfect Sautéed Cabbage
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Overcrowding prevents caramelization. Cook in batches if needed.
- Adjust Texture: For softer cabbage, cook for 10–12 minutes. For crunch, stick to 8–9.
- Add Depth: Deglaze the skillet with balsamic vinegar or white wine after cooking.
Why This Sautéed Cabbage Recipe Works
This dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. At just 5g net carbs per serving, it’s ideal for low-carb and weight-loss plans. Cabbage offers fibre, vitamin C, and antioxidants, while garlic butter adds richness and depth. To make it vegan-friendly, use either olive oil or coconut oil.
Dietary Highlights
- Keto-Friendly: Low in carbs, satisfying, and high in fibre
- Naturally Gluten-Free & Vegan-Friendly
- Good for Gut Health: Cabbage supports digestion with its high fibre content
Final Thought
Quick, savoury, and endlessly customizable, this garlic butter sautéed cabbage recipe will be a staple in your weekly rotation. With just one pan, a few pantry staples, and 15 minutes, you can create a side dish that’s anything but ordinary.
Also Try
Simple Cabbage Sausage Skillet Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do you make sautéed cabbage crispy, not soggy?
Use high heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet. Let the cabbage cook undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring. This helps it caramelize and stay tender-crisp.
2. Is this sautéed cabbage recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in net carbs (about 5g per serving) and fits perfectly into keto, diabetic, and low-carb diets.
3. Can I make this cabbage recipe vegan?
Absolutely. Replace the butter with olive or coconut oil to create a plant-based version.
4. What type of cabbage works best for sautéing?
Green cabbage is ideal due to its firm texture, but red or Savoy cabbage can also be used for variation.
5. What can I serve with garlic butter sautéed cabbage?
It pairs well with chicken, salmon, tofu, or sausages. You can also use it in low-carb bowls topped with eggs and avocado.
