Description
Cabbage Parmesan is a delicious, low-carb twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring thick, sautéed slices of cabbage topped with garlic-infused oil, marinara sauce, Pecorino Romano cheese, and melted fresh mozzarella. This comforting vegetarian recipe is baked to perfection, combining tender cabbage with rich, gooey cheese for a satisfying meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 large head green cabbage
- 4 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 tbsp. chopped fresh basil, plus more for serving
Oils and Sauces
- 1/3 cup plus 2 tbsp. neutral oil, divided
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Cheeses
- 1/2 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella (1/4-inch thick each)
Seasonings
- 2 tsp. kosher salt
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and cabbage slices. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Remove the two ends of the cabbage, then cut it lengthwise into four thick slices, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches each. Carefully cut out the core from each slice, making sure to keep the cabbage layers intact.
- Sear the cabbage slices. Heat 1/3 cup of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the cabbage slices in the skillet and season with kosher salt. Cook the cabbage, turning occasionally, until both sides are golden brown, about 6 to 7 minutes. Once browned, transfer the cabbage slices to the prepared baking sheet.
- Prepare the garlic mixture and top the cabbage. In a small bowl, combine the grated garlic, chopped fresh basil, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of neutral oil. Brush this flavorful mixture evenly over the top of each cabbage slice. Spoon 1/4 cup of marinara sauce on each slice, sprinkle with grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan, and then top each with two slices of fresh mozzarella.
- Bake the cabbage parmesan. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Serve and garnish. Arrange the baked cabbage slices on a serving platter. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- You can use either Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese based on your preference — Pecorino will add a sharper, saltier flavor.
- For the neutral oil, options like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil work well.
- Make sure to keep the cabbage layers intact when cutting out the core to prevent the slices from falling apart during cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- This dish can be served as a main vegetarian course or as a hearty side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 27 minutes
- Category: Vegetarian Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Cabbage Parmesan, vegetarian, Italian, baked cabbage, cheesy cabbage, Pecorino Romano, mozzarella, easy vegetarian recipe
