Cabbage is one of the most underrated vegetables in the kitchen. Affordable, nutritious, and incredibly versatile, it can be used in everything from fresh salads to hearty stews. These 11 easy cabbage recipes will show you just how many ways you can enjoy this humble veggie—whether you’re looking for a light side dish, a cozy dinner, or something in between.
One of cabbage’s biggest strengths is its adaptability. It works beautifully raw, sautéed, roasted, grilled, or fermented. Shredded raw cabbage adds crunch and freshness to coleslaw or taco toppings, while sautéed cabbage with garlic and butter is a quick, comforting side dish that pairs with just about any protein.
For hearty comfort foods, cabbage is a must-have ingredient. Think stuffed cabbage rolls simmered in savory tomato sauce, cabbage soup loaded with vegetables, or stir-fried cabbage with noodles for an easy weeknight dinner. Its mild flavor absorbs seasonings beautifully, making it a perfect canvas for bold spices, tangy sauces, or rich broths.
If you love fresh and healthy dishes, cabbage can shine there too. A crunchy Asian cabbage salad with sesame dressing is light yet satisfying, while grilled cabbage steaks offer a smoky, flavorful twist on a traditional veggie side. Fermented dishes like homemade sauerkraut or kimchi not only taste amazing but also provide gut-healthy probiotics.
Cabbage also happens to be one of the most budget-friendly vegetables you can buy, often costing just pennies per serving. It has a long shelf life compared to other leafy greens, so you can keep it in your fridge for weeks without worrying about waste. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prepping or stretching your grocery budget.
When it comes to nutrition, cabbage is a powerhouse. It’s rich in vitamins C and K, packed with antioxidants, and low in calories while still offering a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re aiming for low-carb, gluten-free, or vegetarian meals, cabbage can easily fit into your diet.
These 11 easy cabbage recipes prove that this simple vegetable can be the star of your plate. From quick sides like buttered cabbage to impressive main dishes like baked cabbage casseroles, there’s something here for every taste and occasion. And the best part? Most of these recipes require minimal ingredients and come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy days.
So, the next time you spot a head of cabbage at the market, grab it. With these ideas in your back pocket, you’ll be able to turn it into meals that are fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just trying something new, cabbage will quickly become one of your kitchen favorites.
Asian Ramen Coleslaw
This crunchy ramen slaw gets its flavor from toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, and a tangy soy vinaigrette. Using packaged coleslaw mix keeps prep time short, making it a quick side for potlucks or weeknight dinners.
Cabbage Casserole
Rich and satisfying, this baked cabbage dish combines shredded cabbage with crispy bacon, creamy sauce, and a buttery cracker topping. It bakes into a golden, bubbly side that’s just as good as the main event.
Sweet and Sour Cabbage
This stovetop cabbage is simmered until tender in a sweet-tangy mix of sugar and vinegar. A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds depth without complicating the ingredient list.
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Classic cabbage rolls are filled with a hearty mix of ground beef and rice, then baked in a tomato-based sauce until tender. A quick boil softens the cabbage leaves for easy rolling.
Pork Egg Roll in a Bowl
All the flavor of takeout egg rolls, minus the wrapper. Ground pork cooks with cabbage, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil for a fast skillet meal that’s both low carb and full of flavor.
Cabbage and Beans
This one-pot dish combines cabbage, beans, and tomatoes for a plant-based meal that’s both hearty and simple. A mix of herbs adds comforting flavor without needing meat.
Apple Cabbage Salad
Thinly sliced cabbage and tart apples make a fresh base for this salad, while toasted walnuts and crumbled Gorgonzola give it crunch and bold flavor. A homemade vinaigrette ties it all together.Â
Cabbage Roll Soup
This cozy soup turns the flavors of classic stuffed cabbage into a one-pot dinner. It’s loaded with ground beef, rice, and chopped cabbage in a rich tomato broth.
Sautéed Cabbage
Simple and savory, this sautéed cabbage comes together in under 20 minutes with just a few pantry ingredients. A bit of garlic and butter adds depth without overpowering the cabbage’s natural flavor.
Homemade Egg Rolls
These crispy egg rolls are packed with a flavorful mix of cabbage, carrots, and ground meat, all tightly rolled in a wrapper and fried until golden. The filling is cooked first for better texture and taste.
Cabbage Stir Fry
This fast stir fry uses green cabbage and carrots tossed in a light soy and garlic sauce. It cooks in minutes and works as either a side dish or meatless main.
