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Cabbage Parmesan Recipe

4.9 from 123 reviews

A delicious twist on traditional Parmesan dishes, featuring tender roasted cabbage slices topped with garlic, fresh basil, marinara sauce, Pecorino Romano, and melted fresh mozzarella. This easy-to-make vegetarian recipe is perfect as a flavorful side or a light main course.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cabbage Parmesan

  • 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 cheese
  • 8 slices fresh mozzarella (each about 1/4-inch thick)
  • Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven and baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Cook the cabbage slices: Heat 1/3 cup of the neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the two ends from the cabbage, then cut it lengthwise into four slices approximately 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick. Carefully cut out the core while keeping the layers intact. Place the cabbage slices in the skillet and season them with kosher salt. Cook the slices, turning occasionally, until both sides are golden brown, about 6 to 7 minutes. Then transfer the cabbage slices to the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Make the garlic basil oil and assemble: In a small bowl, combine the grated garlic, chopped fresh basil, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of neutral oil. Brush this mixture generously over the top of each cabbage slice. Spoon about 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each slice, then sprinkle with the grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese. Top each slice with two slices of fresh mozzarella.
  4. Bake the assembled cabbage: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly, which should take about 18 to 20 minutes.
  5. Serve: Transfer the baked cabbage slices to a serving platter. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute fresh mozzarella with shredded mozzarella if slices aren’t available.
  • For a spicier variation, add red pepper flakes to the garlic basil oil mixture.
  • Make sure to cut the cabbage into thick slices to ensure they hold their shape during cooking.
  • Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for searing to avoid overpowering flavors.
  • This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a light green salad.

Keywords: Cabbage Parmesan, roasted cabbage recipe, vegetarian Parmesan, baked cabbage with cheese, Italian vegetarian main dish