Introduction to Marry Me Melting Cabbage
Have you ever felt like you needed a culinary miracle to impress your loved ones? Well, let me introduce you to Marry Me Melting Cabbage. Picture this: tender cabbage wedges, slathered in a rich, creamy sauce that wraps around them like a warm hug. This recipe isn’t just about flavors; it’s about creating memorable moments at the dinner table, even on the busiest of days. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner, this dish combines ease and elegance—making it the perfect choice for anyone who wants to bring a touch of magic to their meals.
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Melting Cabbage
This Marry Me Melting Cabbage isn’t just another side dish; it’s a game-changer for busy evenings. It’s simple and quick, taking just over an hour from start to finish. The hypnotic blend of creamy goodness, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that is not only comforting but utterly delicious. Plus, it’s vegetarian, making it a fantastic option for everyone at your table!
Ingredients for Marry Me Melting Cabbage
Before we dive into this luscious recipe, let’s gather our star players. Below, I’ve listed each ingredient you’ll need to create the Marry Me Melting Cabbage. Don’t worry about memorizing exact measurements—those are conveniently tucked away at the bottom of the article for easy printing.
- Green cabbage: Choose a big, vibrant head for those beautiful wedges. Cabbage is hearty, and it holds up beautifully with this creamy sauce.
- Olive oil: A drizzle of this liquid gold helps to achieve that perfect sear, adding depth of flavor.
- Butter: A dollop adds richness to the dish, saying “hello” to your taste buds with every bite.
- Red onion: Finely diced, it brings a subtle sweetness and a vibrant pop of color to the sauce.
- Garlic: Minced, of course! Garlic is the magical ingredient that transforms anything into something savory and delicious.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: This adds moisture and a savory backdrop but can be swapped for vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
- Full-fat cream cheese: For that creamy texture, this is non-negotiable! It melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Heavy cream: Here’s where we get ultra-rich! Heavy cream creates that dreamy sauce we all crave.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Julienne these beauties for a sweet and tangy touch that will awaken your taste buds.
- Dried herbs (oregano, thyme, rosemary): These herbal friends pack a punch of flavor; their aromatic profiles beautifully complement the dish.
- Table salt & black pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors and bringing everything together.
- Red pepper flakes: Optional, but a pinch adds a nice kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: For the finishing touch, you’ll sprinkle this on top—because what dish isn’t improved with cheese?
- Fresh parsley: A bit of greenery to garnish and brighten up your masterpiece, plus a vibrant flavor boost.
- Extra Parmesan: Always handy for serving, because you can never have too much cheese!
How to Make Marry Me Melting Cabbage
Now, let’s embark on this delightful culinary journey! Making Marry Me Melting Cabbage is simple and rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to impressing everyone around your dinner table.
Prepare the Cabbage
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Next, grab that brave head of cabbage and cut it into eight wedges, ensuring the core stays intact. Keeping the core will help the wedges hold their shape while cooking, giving you those stunning presentations.
Have you ever noticed how the simplest steps can make the most incredible difference? Let’s move on!
Sear the Cabbage Wedges
Now it’s time to bring on the heat!
In a 12-inch oven-safe cast iron skillet, drizzle in your olive oil over medium-high heat.
Carefully place the cabbage wedges in the skillet, letting them sear for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You want that lovely golden-brown color to develop. If your skillet isn’t big enough, feel free to work in batches.
Once seared, transfer those gorgeous wedges to a plate. Season with salt and pepper—this dish will sing with flavor!
Sauté the Aromatics
Lower the heat to medium and add that luscious butter into the same skillet.
Add the finely diced red onion and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
Then, like an aromatic fairy-tale moment, toss in your minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it fills the air with a savory fragrance.
You’ll notice the spirit of your kitchen starts to awaken as these aromas dance around!
Create the Creamy Sauce
Now, let’s deglaze the pan by pouring in the low-sodium chicken broth.
Use your spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck at the bottom. Those bits are packed with flavor, and we don’t want to waste a thing!
Then, add in the cream cheese, whisking until it melts and creates a smooth base.
Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and dried herbs. Allow everything to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens just a touch.
Remove it from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s all melted into creamy perfection.
Combine Cabbage and Sauce
Now, it’s time to nestle those beautiful cabbage wedges back into the skillet.
Spoon that luscious creamy sauce all over the tops of the cabbage, making sure each wedge feels loved and cozy.
Isn’t it just visually stunning already?
Bake to Perfection
Cover your masterpiece with foil or a lid, and pop it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
This baking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the cabbage will become tender.
After the first round, uncover the dish, gently baste the cabbage with the sauce, and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until fork-tender.
Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top will take this dish to new heights of deliciousness!
Tips for Success
- Use a sharp knife to cut the cabbage—the cleaner the cut, the better the presentation.
- Don’t rush the searing process; a good golden brown makes all the difference.
- Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to fit your family’s taste preferences.
- For extra creaminess, let the heavy cream sit at room temperature before adding it to the sauce.
- Let your dish rest before serving; it allows flavors to settle.
Equipment Needed
- 12-inch oven-safe cast iron skillet or a large, deep baking dish.
- Sharp chef’s knife for cutting the cabbage.
- Wooden spatula for stirring and deglazing.
- Whisk for mixing the creamy sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons for precision.
Variations
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the creamy sauce.
- Swap out the red onion for shallots for a milder, sweeter flavor that pairs beautifully with the cabbage.
- Try adding cooked bacon or sausage crumbles for a savory meat option that elevates the dish.
- For a nutty twist, sprinkle the dish with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds just before serving.
- Experiment with different cheeses like feta or gouda for a unique flavor profile in your creamy sauce.
- Make it gluten-free by ensuring all sauces and broth are labeled gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty artisan bread for an ideal scoopable side experience.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or roasted meats for a hearty meal.
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the cabbage.
- Consider serving with a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement flavors.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation!
FAQs about Marry Me Melting Cabbage
As I’ve shared my love for Marry Me Melting Cabbage, you might find yourself with a few questions about this delightful dish. Let’s dive into some of the most frequently asked questions I receive!
Can I make Marry Me Melting Cabbage in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cabbage and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, combine and bake as directed. This makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights!
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Marry Me Melting Cabbage holds up well in the fridge. You can portion it out for lunches throughout the week. Just reheat in the microwave or oven for a comforting meal with ease.
Can I adjust the creaminess of the dish?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also add more or less cream cheese to customize the richness to your taste.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Marry Me Melting Cabbage?
Some delicious sides include roasted potatoes, a simple green salad, or garlic bread. These pair wonderfully with the creamy cabbage, creating a satisfying meal.
Can I use another type of cabbage?
Yes! While green cabbage is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with Napa or Savoy cabbage for different textures and flavors. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Marry Me Melting Cabbage isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience that transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal. The joy of giving your loved ones a dish that radiates comfort and flavor is unmatched. This savory delight becomes a centerpiece at your table, where stories are shared and laughter resonates. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a special occasion, this dish promises to make lasting memories. So give it a try, and let the magic of Marry Me Melting Cabbage sweep you off your feet, leaving everyone craving more!
Print
Marry Me Melting Cabbage
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Marry Me Melting Cabbage is a savory dish made with tender cabbage wedges enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce, perfect for impressing guests or loved ones.
Ingredients
- 1 head (900-1100 g) green cabbage cut into 8 wedges with core intact
- 3 tbsps (45 ml) olive oil
- 2 tbsps (28 g) butter
- ½ cup (75 g) finely diced red onion
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 oz. (113 g) full-fat cream cheese softened and cubed
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (60 g) sun-dried tomatoes in oil julienned
- 1 tsp (1 g) dried oregano leaves
- 1 tsp (1 g) dried thyme leaves
- ½ tsp (0.5 g) dried rosemary leaves
- 1 tsp (6 g) table salt
- ½ tsp (1 g) black pepper
- 1 tsp (1 g) red pepper flakes optional
- ½ cup (45 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Extra Parmesan for serving to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the cabbage into 8 wedges, keeping the core intact on each wedge.
- Heat olive oil in a 12-inch (30 cm) oven-safe cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the cabbage wedges 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden. Work in batches if needed. Transfer seared wedges to a plate and season with salt and pepper.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and cook red onion for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
- Add cream cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme, rosemary, more salt and pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to slightly thicken. Remove from heat.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Nestle the cabbage wedges back into the skillet, spooning sauce over the tops.
- Cover with foil or a lid and bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover, baste the cabbage with the sauce, and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or roasted meats.
- Feel free to adjust seasonings according to personal taste.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 80mg


