Cabbage Recipes That Prove Simple Can Be Delicious

Cabbage might not be the star of most dinner tables, but it’s one of those humble ingredients that can surprise you when given a little attention. Whether you like it raw in slaws, cooked in soups, or roasted for that perfect crunch, cabbage is a kitchen staple that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to make great food.

This leafy green is affordable, packed with nutrients, and incredibly versatile. From Filipino-style stir-fries to comforting stews or light salads, cabbage can adapt to just about any flavor profile or cooking style. The best part? It’s quick to prepare and adds texture and balance to any dish.

If you’ve ever overlooked cabbage as “just a side,” it’s time to see it differently. These simple cabbage recipes show how easy it is to turn this everyday veggie into meals that are wholesome, flavorful, and worth repeating. Sometimes, the simplest ingredients really do make the most memorable dishes.

Ethiopian Cabbage

This fragrant dish combines cabbage, carrots, and potatoes simmered in a blend of turmeric, garlic, and onions. It’s a flavorful, plant-based recipe that’s simple to prepare and full of warmth. The gentle spices create a rich aroma, making it a great side or main dish for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Ethiopian Cabbage

Baked Cabbage with Bacon: Simple and Delicious

Tender cabbage is roasted with crispy bacon until golden and full of savory flavor. The bacon adds a smoky richness that pairs perfectly with the mild sweetness of baked cabbage. It’s an easy comfort dish that works well as a side or hearty addition to dinner.
Get the Recipe: Baked Cabbage with Bacon: Simple and Delicious

Vegan Cabbage Fritters

These crispy fritters are made with shredded cabbage, herbs, and a simple vegan batter. They’re pan-fried until golden brown and make a great snack or side. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a flavorful and wholesome treat.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cabbage Fritters

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Thick slices of cabbage are roasted until tender with crisp, caramelized edges. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper bring out their natural sweetness. It’s an easy and elegant way to enjoy cabbage with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup

This comforting soup is filled with cabbage, vegetables, and light seasoning, all cooked in one pot. It’s a healthy and hearty meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy days. Great for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup

Cabbage and Sausage Alfredo

Smoky sausage and tender cabbage come together in a creamy Alfredo sauce for a rich, comforting meal. The cabbage adds texture and balance to the dish, while the sauce ties everything together. Serve it over pasta or enjoy as is for a satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage Alfredo

Dutch Oven Corned Beef and Cabbage

Classic corned beef and cabbage simmer slowly in a Dutch oven until perfectly tender. The cabbage absorbs the savory juices, creating a flavorful and hearty meal. It’s a traditional favorite, especially for St. Patrick’s Day or family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Corned Beef and Cabbage

Carrot Raisin Salad

This crisp salad features shredded carrots, sweet raisins, and a light creamy dressing. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and pairs nicely with grilled or roasted dishes. A great way to add color and crunch to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Raisin Salad

Roasted Cabbage with Cheese Sauce

Roasted cabbage wedges topped with a smooth, cheesy sauce make a comforting side dish. The cabbage caramelizes beautifully while the sauce adds a creamy finish. Simple ingredients come together for a cozy, flavorful bite.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage with Cheese Sauce

Slow Cooker Cabbage

Cabbage cooks gently in the slow cooker with onions, garlic, and broth for an easy, hands-off dish. The result is tender, flavorful cabbage with minimal effort. Perfect for pairing with roasted meats or as a light meal on its own.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cabbage

Quick and Simple Air Fryer Cabbage

Cabbage becomes perfectly crispy and golden in the air fryer with just a touch of oil and seasoning. It’s a fast and healthy side that’s ready in minutes. Great for adding a crunchy, savory element to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Simple Air Fryer Cabbage

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

This stir-fry combines seasoned ground beef with cabbage and simple spices for a quick, hearty meal. Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup easy. It’s balanced, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Easy Braised Cabbage

Cabbage is gently cooked with onions, garlic, and a splash of broth until tender and flavorful. The slow braising brings out its natural sweetness. It’s a simple and comforting dish that pairs well with almost any main course.
Get the Recipe: Easy Braised Cabbage

Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks With Goat Cheese and Balsamic Glaze

Thick cabbage steaks crisp up beautifully in the air fryer, then get topped with creamy goat cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The mix of textures and flavors makes it a standout side. It’s quick, elegant, and surprisingly simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks With Goat Cheese and Balsamic Glaze

Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Soup

All the flavors of cabbage rolls, but in easy soup form. Ground meat, rice, and cabbage simmer together in a rich tomato broth. It’s comforting, hearty, and perfect for cold days.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Soup

Cabbage Apple Salad

Fresh cabbage and crisp apples are tossed with a light dressing for a refreshing salad. The sweet and tangy flavors balance beautifully, adding a nice crunch to your meal. Ideal for picnics or as a bright side dish.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Apple Salad

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Cabbage is pan-fried with crispy bacon and onions for a flavorful Southern classic. It’s quick to make and full of rich, smoky taste. A perfect side for any comfort food spread.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Cabbage Au Gratin

Tender cabbage is baked in a creamy sauce topped with melted cheese and breadcrumbs. It’s rich, warm, and makes a great alternative to traditional potato gratin. Simple ingredients, big flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Au Gratin

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Cabbage wedges wrapped in bacon crisp up perfectly in the air fryer for a savory, satisfying treat. The bacon adds smoky flavor while keeping the cabbage juicy. Great as a side or appetizer that’s both easy and impressive.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage