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Cabbage Parmesan Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 69 reviews

Cabbage Parmesan is a delicious and unique twist on the traditional Italian favorite, layering tender seared cabbage slices with savory marinara sauce, garlic basil oil, and melty mozzarella cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. This vegetarian dish serves as a flavorful main or side that highlights the natural sweetness of cabbage enhanced by rich Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cabbage and Oil Mixture

  • 1/3 cup neutral oil, divided
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (for garlic mixture)
  • 1 large head green cabbage
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 4 cloves garlic, grated
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, plus extra for serving

For the Topping

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
  • 8 slices fresh mozzarella (1/4-inch thick)
  • Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Cabbage: Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Trim the two ends off the cabbage and cut it lengthwise into four slices, each about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick. Carefully cut out the core from each slice while keeping the layers of cabbage intact.
  2. Sear Cabbage Slices: Heat 1/3 cup of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the cabbage slices in the hot skillet and season them evenly with kosher salt. Cook the slices, turning occasionally, until they develop a golden brown crust on both sides, about 6 to 7 minutes total. Once browned, transfer the cabbage slices onto the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Prepare Garlic Basil Oil and Assemble: In a small bowl, combine the grated garlic, 2 tablespoons of neutral oil, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil. Brush this fragrant mixture generously over the top of each cabbage slice. Next, spoon 1/4 cup of marinara sauce onto each slice, sprinkle evenly with Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese, and top with two slices of fresh mozzarella.
  4. Bake Cabbage Parmesan: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cabbage slices for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Once baked, arrange the cabbage slices nicely on a serving platter. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a fresh pop of flavor and color.

Notes

  • Use a sharp knife to carefully core the cabbage slices to keep the leaves intact.
  • Neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil works best for searing without overpowering flavors.
  • Fresh mozzarella slices should be about 1/4 inch thick to melt evenly.
  • For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the garlic oil mixture.
  • This dish can be served as a main course or a flavorful vegetarian side.

Keywords: Cabbage Parmesan, vegetarian Italian recipe, baked cabbage, mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, garlic basil oil, marinara sauce

Find it online: https://messykitchenmagic.com/cabbage-parmesan-recipe/