There’s an undeniable charm to exploring the depths of your kitchen and uncovering dishes that bring comfort while still igniting your culinary curiosity. Enter Marry Me Melting Cabbage, a dish that transforms humble green cabbage into an exquisite experience that might just win a few hearts at your dinner table. The moment you slice into that golden-brown wedge, releasing the tender, rich aroma infused with creamy Tuscan sauce, you’ll understand just how magical this recipe is.
Imagine a busy weeknight where the thought of yet another takeout is uninspired. Instead, lend your culinary talents to this delectable creation, which harmoniously blends the creamy goodness of cream cheese and heavy cream, alongside the savory richness of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan. It’s a symphony of flavors that lend themselves beautifully to any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an indulgent gathering with friends.
Best of all? This stunning dish is surprisingly easy to whip up, promising to deliver a “wow” without the fuss. Ready to marry flavor with simplicity? Let’s dive into the irresistible magic of Marry Me Melting Cabbage!
Why is Marry Me Melting Cabbage a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: This dish features a creamy Tuscan sauce that elevates roasted cabbage to a whole new level, combining savory and rich flavors that will leave everyone craving more.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings, this recipe caters to everyone’s palate, making it a guaranteed hit at your next event.
Easy Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll find this dish is swift and uncomplicated, allowing you to focus on what’s most important—enjoying great food with loved ones.
Versatility: Pair it as a side dish or make it the main attraction; it complements everything from grilled meats to a light salad.
Healthy Indulgence: Packed with nutrients from green cabbage and enhanced with delicious ingredients, this recipe allows you to indulge without guilt.
Let this incredible dish inspire your next culinary adventure! Looking for more delicious vegetable recipes? Check out our fantastic collection of easy vegetable side dishes.
Marry Me Melting Cabbage Ingredients
For the Cabbage
• 1 head green cabbage – The star of the show, chosen for its beautiful leaves and unique texture.
For the Sauce
• 3 tbsps olive oil – Adds a rich flavor and helps achieve that perfect golden sear on the cabbage.
• 2 tbsps butter – Brings a luscious creaminess and depth to the sauce.
• ½ cup finely diced red onion – Sweetens the dish as it cooks, balancing the savory notes.
• 4 cloves garlic – Enhances the sauce with aromatic warmth that pairs beautifully with the cream.
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – A flavorful base that deglazes the pan and adds moisture to the dish.
• 4 oz. cream cheese – Creates a creamy, dreamy texture that envelops the cabbage.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce velvety, elevating the overall experience.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil – Introduces a burst of tangy sweetness that complements the creaminess.
• 1 tsp dried oregano leaves – Adds an herby note, invoking the essence of Tuscan cooking.
• 1 tsp dried thyme leaves – Infuses the sauce with a subtle earthy flavor.
• ½ tsp dried rosemary leaves – Offers a fragrant kick that enhances the overall deliciousness.
• 1 tsp table salt – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
• ½ tsp black pepper – Adds a gentle heat that balances the sauce.
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who crave a hint of spice in their creamy sauce.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Imparts a nutty, umami flavor to the dish, making it irresistible.
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish) – Brings a splash of color and freshness to the finished dish.
• Extra Parmesan (for serving to taste) – A little extra cheese never hurt anyone!
Dive into the deliciousness of Marry Me Melting Cabbage with these carefully selected ingredients, and prepare to impress everyone around your table!
How to Make Marry Me Melting Cabbage
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking. This ensures that the cabbage will roast beautifully while absorbing all those luscious flavors.
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Cut the cabbage into 8 wedges, being sure to keep the core intact on each wedge. This helps maintain their shape during cooking, giving you those stunning, golden pieces.
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Heat olive oil in a 12-inch (30 cm) oven-safe cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the cabbage wedges for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they’re beautifully golden. Then transfer them to a plate and season with salt and pepper for added flavor.
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Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and cook the finely diced red onion for 2 to 3 minutes until softened, releasing its sweet aroma. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds depth and flavor to your sauce.
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Add cream cheese to the pan and whisk until melted and smooth, creating a creamy base for your sauce that feels indulgent and comforting.
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Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to let the mixture thicken slightly before removing it from heat.
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Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until completely melted and well-blended, giving it that rich, cheesy goodness that will coat each cabbage wedge.
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Nestle the cabbage wedges back into the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce generously over the tops to ensure they’re well-coated in flavor.
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Cover the skillet with foil or a lid and bake for 45 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Uncover, baste the cabbage with the sauce, and bake uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes until fork-tender and golden brown. This helps to enhance the flavor even more!
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Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan to create a stunning presentation.
Optional: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Marry Me Melting Cabbage Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Marry Me Melting Cabbage and make it entirely your own!
- Vegan: Substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative for a plant-based delight.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that the chicken broth is gluten-free or replace it with vegetable broth for a wholesome, gluten-free dish.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can replace dried herbs, offering vibrant flavors to enhance your creamy sauce’s aroma.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an exciting heat twist that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce!
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in gouda or mozzarella along with the Parmesan for a decadent, cheesy experience that will make hearts sing.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch that complements the tender cabbage perfectly.
- Tomato Burst: Swap sun-dried tomatoes for fresh cherry tomatoes, adding a juicy brightness that dances with every bite.
- Citrus Zest: A sprinkle of lemon or orange zest before serving brightens up the dish and enhances the flavors beautifully.
Let these variations inspire your culinary creativity and take your Marry Me Melting Cabbage to new heights!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Melting Cabbage
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Perfect Searing: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the cabbage. A good sear locks in flavors and enhances the dish’s color.
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Keep It Intact: When cutting the cabbage, leaving the core intact for each wedge helps them maintain their shape and absorb the creamy Tuscan sauce evenly.
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Deglaze Wisely: Don’t skip the deglazing step with chicken broth. This not only adds flavor but prevents burning those delightful browned bits from the skillet.
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Even Sauce Distribution: Once the wedges are nestled back in the skillet, be generous with spooning the sauce over the tops to ensure each bite gets that creamy goodness.
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Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving gives the flavors a chance to meld and the sauce to thicken just a bit more.
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Customizable Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes, or adjust to your spice tolerance for this Marry Me Melting Cabbage.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Melting Cabbage wedges are a fantastic option for meal prep lovers! You can sear the cabbage and prepare the creamy Tuscan sauce up to 24 hours in advance. To do so, follow the initial steps of cutting and searing the wedges, then store them covered in the refrigerator. Prepare the sauce and let it cool before refrigerating it separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply nestle the cabbage in a baking dish, reheat the sauce gently, spoon it over the cabbage, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll have a sumptuous dish ready to impress with minimal effort, just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Marry Me Melting Cabbage?
Imagine the warm ambiance of your dining table filled with delicious aromas, a scene set for delightful conversation and laughter.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic favorite, their creaminess pairs beautifully with the rich Tuscan sauce, adding a comforting texture to the meal.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce left on your plate, enhancing every bite.
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Grilled Lemon Chicken: The zesty freshness of lemon chicken complements the richness of the cabbage, adding a vibrant splash of flavor to the dinner.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies introduce a hint of sweetness and crunch to your meal, balancing the creaminess of the dish with their charred essence.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and Caesar dressing refresh the palate. This salad adds a crisp contrast that makes every mouthful of melting cabbage a pleasure.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine enhances the creamy notes of the dish, making it a sophisticated pairing for unwinding after a long day.
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Chocolate Mousse: End the dining experience on a sweet note with a light yet indulgent dessert that will leave everyone satisfied and glowing with joy.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a standout meal that showcases the star of your table, Marry Me Melting Cabbage!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Melting Cabbage
Fridge: Store leftover Marry Me Melting Cabbage in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cabbage in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove or in the oven.
Reheating: When reheating from frozen, ensure the dish is fully heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Add a splash of broth or cream while reheating to enhance creaminess.
Avoid Storing: Avoid storing the dish with garnishes like parsley and extra Parmesan until you’re ready to serve, as they can wilt and lose freshness in storage.
Marry Me Melting Cabbage Recipe FAQs
How do I choose a ripe cabbage?
Absolutely! When selecting a green cabbage for your Marry Me Melting Cabbage, look for heads that are firm and heavy for their size. The leaves should be crisp and tightly packed, without any dark spots or blemishes. A fresh cabbage will have a vibrant green color. Avoid heads that feel light, as they might be old and wilted.
How should I store leftover Marry Me Melting Cabbage?
Very important! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up to maintain its flavor and texture. When ready to enjoy again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I freeze Marry Me Melting Cabbage?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the cabbage cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. For reheating, make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight and then warm it gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive its creamy texture.
What if the cabbage is too tough after baking?
No worries! If your cabbage isn’t fork-tender after baking for the recommended time, simply cover it and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You want the cabbage to absorb that delicious creamy sauce while becoming tender, so giving it a bit more time in the oven often does the trick. Just be sure to baste it occasionally for even flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations for Marry Me Melting Cabbage?
Definitely! This dish can be adjusted for various dietary needs. For those with dairy allergies, consider using a dairy-free cream cheese and heavy cream alternative. Additionally, if you’re cooking for pets, keep them away from the dish as it contains garlic, which can be harmful to dogs. Always feel free to personalize it according to your dietary restrictions or preferences!
Can I make Marry Me Melting Cabbage gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure you use gluten-free chicken broth and check the labels of any store-bought ingredients to guarantee they meet your dietary needs. Enjoy the delightful flavors without worry!
Marry Me Melting Cabbage with Creamy Tuscan Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the cabbage into 8 wedges, keeping the core intact.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear cabbage wedges for 2-3 minutes per side until golden, then season with salt and pepper.
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter and cook red onion for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up browned bits.
- Add cream cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate grated Parmesan until melted and well-blended.
- Nestle cabbage wedges back into the skillet and spoon sauce over the tops.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover, baste the cabbage, and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender and golden brown.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
