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Cabbage Parmesan Recipe

4.8 from 67 reviews

Cabbage Parmesan is a delicious and hearty vegetarian dish that features thick slices of cabbage pan-seared until golden brown, then layered with garlic, fresh basil, marinara sauce, Pecorino Romano cheese, and fresh mozzarella before being baked to perfection. This flavorful recipe serves as a fantastic meatless main or a savory side that combines simple ingredients with Italian-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 large head green cabbage
  • 4 cloves garlic, grated
  • 1 tbsp. chopped fresh basil, plus more for serving

Oils & Sauces

  • 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

Cheeses

  • 1/2 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan
  • 8 slices fresh mozzarella (1/4-inch thick)

Seasoning

  • 2 tsp kosher salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare and brown the cabbage: Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with foil. Heat 1/3 cup of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cut off the two ends of the cabbage, then cut it lengthwise into four slices about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick. Carefully remove the core from each slice, keeping the cabbage layers intact. Place the cabbage slices into the hot skillet, season with kosher salt, and cook, turning occasionally, until both sides are golden brown, about 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer the browned cabbage slices to the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Brush with garlic mixture and layer toppings: In a small bowl, combine the grated garlic, chopped basil, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of neutral oil. Brush this fragrant mixture evenly over the tops of the cabbage slices. Spoon approximately 1/4 cup marinara sauce onto each cabbage slice, then sprinkle with finely grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese. Top each slice with two slices of fresh mozzarella cheese.
  3. Bake the cabbage parmesan: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cabbage slices until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, about 18 to 20 minutes.
  4. Garnish and serve: Remove the cabbage parmesan from the oven and arrange the slices on a serving platter. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves. Serve warm as a flavorful vegetarian main or side dish.

Notes

  • You can substitute Pecorino Romano with Parmesan or a mix of the two based on your preference.
  • Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for browning the cabbage to prevent burning.
  • To keep the cabbage slices intact when cutting out the core, use a sharp knife and work carefully.
  • Fresh mozzarella gives the dish the best melt and creaminess, but part-skim mozzarella can be used for a lighter option.
  • If you want a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the garlic oil mixture before brushing onto the cabbage.

Keywords: Cabbage Parmesan, vegetarian dinner, Italian vegetarian, baked cabbage, cheesy cabbage recipe