Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Cabbage

 

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Remove any wilted outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut it into large wedges or thick chunks (about 8 pieces). Keeping the wedges intact helps them hold their shape during slow cooking.

Place the cabbage pieces in your slow cooker in a single layer or slightly overlapping.

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Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Pour this garlic butter mixture evenly over the cabbage in the slow cooker. This ensures every piece absorbs those delicious flavors as it cooks.

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Step 3: Add Broth

Pour in ¼ cup of broth around the edges (not directly on top). The liquid will create gentle steam, keeping the cabbage tender without becoming soggy.

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Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on:

• LOW for 4–5 hours, or

• HIGH for 2–3 hours,

until the cabbage is tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Pro tip: Avoid overcooking. You want the cabbage tender but not mushy — it should still hold together when served.

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Step 5: Add Parmesan and Finish

Once the cabbage is cooked, sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover the slow cooker again for 5–10 minutes, just until the cheese melts.

For extra flavor and texture, you can also add a bit of grated mozzarella or shaved parmesan just before serving.

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Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Gently transfer the cabbage to a serving dish using a slotted spoon. Spoon a little of the garlicky butter sauce from the bottom of the slow cooker over the top for extra flavor.

Garnish with fresh parsley, a dusting of parmesan, and a crack of black pepper — then serve hot and enjoy!

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4. What Makes This Recipe So Good

The combination of slow cooking and simple ingredients creates magic.

• The garlic butter infuses deep flavor into every layer of the cabbage.

• The parmesan adds a salty, nutty richness that perfectly complements the vegetable’s natural sweetness.

• The slow cooker ensures a hands-off process that yields tender, perfectly cooked results every time.

It’s pure comfort food with minimal effort.

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5. Variations and Add-Ins

Once you’ve tried the basic version, experiment with these flavor twists:

• Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cabbage: Add cooked, crumbled bacon before serving.

• Garlic Mushroom Cabbage: Add sliced mushrooms in the last hour of cooking.

• Spicy Cajun Version: Sprinkle in a little Cajun or chili seasoning for heat.

• Lemon Garlic Cabbage: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a bright finish.

• Creamy Twist: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or heavy cream for a rich, creamy sauce.

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6. What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Cabbage

This dish pairs wonderfully with both meat and vegetarian mains. Try serving it with:

• Grilled or roasted chicken

• Juicy pork chops or steak

• Baked salmon or shrimp

• Mashed potatoes, rice, or quinoa for a full meal

• As part of a vegetarian dinner, alongside roasted vegetables or lentil patties

It’s also a fantastic side for holiday dinners — it complements turkey, ham, or roast beef beautifully.

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7. Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t skip the butter or oil: Fat helps the cabbage caramelize slightly and carry flavor.

• Use fresh garlic: It makes a big difference compared to garlic powder.

• Add the cheese at the end: Adding it too early can make it clumpy or grainy.

• Taste before serving: Adjust salt and pepper as needed. Parmesan adds saltiness, so start light.

• Avoid overcooking: Too much time in the slow cooker can make cabbage mushy.

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8. Nutritional Benefits

Cabbage is one of the healthiest and most underrated vegetables.

Nutritional highlights (per serving, approx. 1 cup):

• Calories: 140

• Protein: 6g

• Fat: 10g

• Carbs: 8g

• Fiber: 3g

• Vitamin C: 55% DV

• Calcium: 15% DV

This dish is low-carb, keto-friendly, and packed with antioxidants, vitamin K, and fiber. The garlic and parmesan add additional heart-healthy fats and flavor, making it both nutritious and indulgent.

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9. Storage and Reheating

To store:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

• Warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

• If reheating in a skillet, add a small splash of broth or butter to restore moisture.

To freeze:

• While possible, freezing can change the texture of cabbage. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

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10. Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Cabbage is the kind of recipe that surprises you with how good it tastes despite how easy it is. With minimal prep and a handful of everyday ingredients, you’ll end up with a side dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and downright crave-worthy.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe brings out the best in cabbage — turning a simple vegetable into something truly special.

Serve it warm, watch it disappear, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!

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