Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Whole Cabbage with Lemon Butter
A cozy, slow-cooked cabbage dish with garlic, Parmesan, and lemon butter—simple, nostalgic, and full of comforting flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Total Time: ~6–8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Main (Vegetarian)
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American, Midwest-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 medium whole cabbage
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup vegetable broth
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Remove the core of the cabbage, keeping the leaves intact so flavors can soak in.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Place the whole cabbage into the slow cooker. Pour the garlic-Parmesan-lemon butter mixture over the top and into the folds.
Season with salt and pepper.
Pour the vegetable broth around the base of the cabbage.
Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours, until cabbage is tender and flavorful.
Carefully transfer cabbage to a serving dish.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Add smoked paprika for a subtle, savory depth.
For a spicy version, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes.
Vegan swap: Use plant-based butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
For crunch, top with toasted breadcrumbs just before serving.
Pairs well with roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
