Garlic Butter Sautéed Cabbage is a simple dish that turns crisp cabbage into a tender, flavorful side with a rich butter and garlic kick. The cabbage gets lightly browned and soft, soaking up all those garlicky buttery juices that make it feel special while still keeping it fresh and light.
I love making this whenever I want a quick veggie side that feels a little fancy but takes almost no effort. The smell of garlic sizzling in butter just fills the kitchen and makes me excited to eat. Sometimes I add a pinch of chili flakes for a tiny bit of heat—it’s such a nice little twist!
My favorite way to serve it is right alongside a simple grilled chicken or pork chop. It’s one of those dishes that everyone seems to like, even folks who don’t usually love cabbage. Plus, it’s great leftover and reheats well, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights when I want something tasty and easy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage works great because it softens nicely while keeping a bit of crunch. You can also use savoy or napa cabbage for a milder taste and tender texture.
Butter: Butter adds richness and helps the garlic flavor sing. For a dairy-free option, try olive oil or vegan butter, which also give a nice taste and sauté effect.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that bright, robust flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder or granulated garlic can work in a pinch—just adjust the amount to taste.
Acidity (optional): A splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar brightens the dish and balances the richness. White wine vinegar or a little balsamic can also work well.
How Do You Get Cabbage Tender but Not Mushy?
Cooking cabbage just right can be tricky. You want it tender, not mushy, with some caramelized edges. Here’s how:
- Use medium heat—too high burns the garlic or cabbage, too low steams it instead of sautéing.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give cabbage room to cook and brown.
- Stir occasionally but not constantly—letting sections sit a bit helps develop those brown spots.
- Cook just 8-10 minutes so it softens but still holds shape.
- If the pan gets dry, add a splash of water or butter to keep things moist without steaming.
These tips help keep the cabbage flavorful with nice texture, just like in the photo.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan – I recommend a wide pan to give the cabbage room to cook evenly and develop those nice browned spots.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helpful for stirring and scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan.
- Measuring spoons – for adding the right amount of salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing the cabbage thinly so it cooks quickly and evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked bacon or pancetta for smoky richness; it pairs well with the garlic butter.
- Stir in a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil for an umami boost with an Asian twist.
- Mix in sautéed onions or leeks to add sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta just before serving for a salty, cheesy touch.
How to Make Garlic Butter Sautéed Cabbage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in about 20 minutes—quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cabbage:
Start by removing any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Then, slice the cabbage into thin strips. This helps it cook quickly and evenly.
2. Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic:
Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat, then melt the butter until it foams gently. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it too much so it doesn’t get bitter.
3. Cook the Cabbage:
Add the sliced cabbage to the pan, stirring it to coat evenly in the garlic butter. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Cook over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly browned in spots.
4. Finish and Serve:
If you like, stir in the lemon juice or apple cider vinegar in the last minute to add brightness to the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve your garlic butter sautéed cabbage warm as a tasty, savory side!
Can I Use Frozen or Pre-Shredded Cabbage?
Yes, you can use frozen or pre-shredded cabbage to save time! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before cooking to avoid sogginess.
Can I Substitute Olive Oil for Butter?
Absolutely! Olive oil works well if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option. It won’t have the same richness as butter but will still give great flavor and help sauté the cabbage.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover sautéed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or butter if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Onions, bell peppers, or shredded carrots mix well and add extra flavor and color. Just sauté them first before adding the cabbage so everything cooks evenly.
