Name: Cabbage Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 large head green cabbage; 4 cloves garlic, grated; 1 tbsp. chopped fresh basil, plus more for serving; 1/3 cup plus 2 tbsp. neutral oil, divided (such as canola or grapeseed oil); 1 cup marinara sauce; Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling; 1/2 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan; 8 slices fresh mozzarella (1/4-inch thick); 2 tsp kosher salt

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Introduction

Cabbage Parmesan is a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring tender roasted cabbage slices layered with garlic, fresh basil, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. This easy recipe is perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal that feels both hearty and fresh.

The dish shows a stack of three layers of cooked cabbage leaves, each pale green with slight browning at the edges, layered with bright red tomato sauce and melted golden cheese on top. Fresh green basil leaves are placed on the melted cheese, and grated white cheese is sprinkled around and on top. The food sits on a white plate with a dark brown rim, with a silver fork holding a small piece of the layered cabbage, sauce, and cheese to the right. A few green basil leaves lie on the white marbled surface beside the plate, and a white bowl filled with grated cheese is partially visible on the upper right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons neutral oil, divided
1 large head green cabbage
2 teaspoons kosher salt
4 cloves garlic, grated
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, plus more for serving
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan
8 slices fresh mozzarella (1/4 inch thick)
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1/3 cup of neutral oil. Cut the two ends off the cabbage, then slice it lengthwise into four pieces about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick. Carefully remove the core from each slice, keeping the layers intact. Arrange the cabbage slices in the skillet and season with salt. Cook, turning occasionally, until both sides are golden brown, about 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer the cabbage to the prepared baking sheet.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the grated garlic, chopped basil, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of neutral oil. Brush this garlic-basil mixture over the top of each cabbage slice. Spoon 1/4 cup of marinara sauce onto each slice, then sprinkle evenly with the grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese. Top each cabbage slice with two slices of fresh mozzarella.
Step 3: Bake the cabbage in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 18 to 20 minutes.
Step 4: Remove from the oven and arrange the cabbage slices on a serving platter. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and garnish with additional fresh basil before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic-basil oil mixture.
Swap out the Pecorino Romano for Parmesan or a mix of your favorite hard cheeses.
Try using kale or cauliflower steaks as an alternative to cabbage for a different twist.
Use homemade marinara for extra flavor or add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce topping.

Storage

Store leftover cabbage Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through, to keep the cheese melty and the cabbage tender.

How to Serve

The image shows five pieces of baked eggplant parmesan on a white rectangular tray with a white marbled surface underneath. Each piece has three visible layers: the bottom layer is golden and slightly charred eggplant slices, the middle layer is bright red tomato sauce, and the top layer is melted, bubbly white mozzarella cheese with browned spots. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered over the cheese, and small drops of olive oil glisten on the tray, along with some grated parmesan cheese sprinkled around. The pieces are close but not touching, creating a casual and appetizing arrangement. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cabbage slices and garlic-basil mixture ahead of time. Assemble the dish just before baking to maintain freshness and texture.

What type of neutral oil works best?

Oils like canola, vegetable, or grapeseed oil are ideal because they have a mild flavor and high smoke point, which helps achieve a good sear on the cabbage without overpowering the dish.