In the pulsating realm of culinary beats, where flavors sync with rhythm, let the ethereal vibrations of techno guide us to a dish that transcends the ordinary—the hypnotic world of Creamed Cabbage. Picture the dancefloor of your palate illuminated with the neon glow of velvety cabbage swaying to the relentless pulse of creaminess.
As the bass drops, so does the richness of this savory symphony, intertwining layers of shredded cabbage with the pulsating beats of a creamy melody. Join the gastronomic rave, where every bite is a drop, and Creamed Cabbage reigns supreme as the headlining act in this techno-inspired culinary odyssey.
Most creamed cabbage recipes are more casserole types, i.e. boiled cabbage baked in a large casserole dish topped with heavy amounts of cheese plus thickened with a roux. I wanted something creamy but a little on the lighter side and a little more elevated.
Related Cabbage Recipes:
Beats and Eats (music to pair with creamed cabbage)
As the smooth and soulful melodies of Marvin Gaye's "Ain't That Peculiar" fill the air, immerse yourself in a culinary journey that echoes the same richness and depth. Our Creamed Cabbage with Cheese recipe is a symphony of flavors, blending the soul-stirring notes of Marvin Gaye with the creamy, cheesy goodness of a comforting cabbage dish.
Sweet Anise Serenade Begin with the sweet anise flavor of fennel dancing through the dish, echoing the sweet notes in Marvin's voice. The fennel adds a unique twist, just like the distinctive charm of "Ain't That Peculiar."
Creamy Crescendo As Marvin's vocals hit a crescendo, indulge in the creaminess of the dish. Gruyère cheese melts into a velvety sauce, harmonizing with the smoothness of the music. It's a crescendo of flavor that captivates the senses.
A Culinary Ballad In this pairing, we've orchestrated a culinary ballad where soulful music meets soul-warming comfort food. As you savor each spoonful of Creamed Cabbage with Cheese, let Marvin Gaye's iconic voice serenade your senses, creating a symphony of satisfaction and nostalgia.
Ingredients Needed For This Creamed Cabbage Recipe
- Butter - The natural richness of butter imparts depth to the flavor profile of the creamed cabbage. It elevates the dish, making it more savory and enhancing its overall complexity.
- Green Cabbage - Ensure that the cabbage is shredded or sliced uniformly to promote even cooking and a consistent texture in the final dish.
- Leeks - have a mild and slightly sweet onion flavor. When sautéed and incorporated into creamed cabbage, they add a subtle savory note without overpowering the dish.
- Yellow Onion (optional)
- Fennel - Fennel has a distinct sweet and mildly licorice-like flavor. This sweet anise taste adds a unique and aromatic dimension to the creamed cabbage, creating a more complex and nuanced profile. Sautéing fennel along with other aromatics, such as onions or garlic, before adding the cream and cabbage allows the fennel's flavors to meld and infuse into the dish.
- Mustard Greens - Mustard greens have a characteristic peppery and slightly pungent flavor. This unique taste adds depth and complexity to the creamed cabbage, providing a flavorful contrast.
- Heavy Cream - brings a luxurious and velvety texture to the creamed cabbage, creating a rich and satisfying mouthfeel. The creaminess adds a comforting quality to the dish.
- Black Pepper
- Garlic Cloves - bring a savory and umami depth to the creamed cabbage.
- Kosher Salt
- Smoked Paprika - Smoked paprika imparts a distinct smokiness to the creamed cabbage, creating depth and complexity in flavor.
- Allspice - has a warm and slightly sweet flavor reminiscent of a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This combination imparts complexity to the creamed cabbage, creating a nuanced and flavorful taste.
- Gruyère Cheese - has a balanced level of saltiness, which can help season the creamed cabbage.
How To Make Creamed Cabbage with Cheese (step by step)
Mix allspice, pepper, salt, and paprika in a small ramekin. Set aside.
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium high heat.
Add the fennel and saute 3-4 minutes as fennel begins to brown some. Season with a quarter of the dry spice mix. Stir occasionally.
Add leeks and onions mix well. Saute another 2 minutes. Add garlic and saute another 30 seconds.
Add the mustard greens and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add in the cabbage plus another ¼ of the spices, mix well, and cover. Let simmer at medium heat for 20 minutes. Remove lid and add the cream. Mix in well with the remaining spices and allow to simmer another 5 minutes or until your desired consistency is reached.
Add Gruyère cheese, and stir until melted. Finish with freshly ground black pepper and more cheese if needed to meet your own taste preferences.
What To Serve With Creamy Cabbage
Creamed cabbage pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, adding a comforting and flavorful element to your meal. The delicious creamy sauce, mustard greens and fennel flavor, and warm spices make this dish standout. Here are some suggestions for what to serve with this delicious side dish:
- Roasted Chicken:
- The creamy texture of the cabbage complements the succulence of roasted chicken. The combination offers a balance of flavors and textures.
- Grilled Sausages:
- The rich and savory notes of grilled sausages harmonize well with the creamy consistency of the cabbage. It's a classic pairing that delivers both comfort and satisfaction.
- Mashed Potatoes:
- Creamed cabbage can be served alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a double dose of comfort. The textures complement each other, creating a comforting and hearty side dish.
- Pork Chops:
- The creaminess of the cabbage pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of pork chops. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, pork chops provide a robust companion to the creamed cabbage.
- Salmon Fillets:
- For a lighter option, consider serving creamed cabbage with grilled or baked salmon fillets. The creamy texture of the cabbage adds a luscious element to the dish.
- Beef Stew:
- Creamed cabbage can be a delightful addition to heartier dishes like beef stew. The combination of creamy cabbage and rich, slow-cooked beef creates a satisfying and comforting meal.
Tips For Maximizing Flavor In This Cabbage Dish
To maximize flavor in a skillet creamed cabbage recipe, consider incorporating the following tips:
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Begin by sautéing aromatics like finely chopped onions or garlic in butter or olive oil. This adds a flavorful base to the creamed cabbage.
- Choose A Fresh Head of Cabbage:
- Opt for fresh and crisp green cabbage for the best flavor and texture. Fresh cabbage imparts a sweeter and more vibrant taste to the dish. I do not recommend other cabbage types like savoy cabbage or purple cabbage.
- Add Herbs and Spices:
- Introduce herbs and spices to enhance the overall flavor profile. Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, parsley, or dill can bring depth, while a pinch of nutmeg adds warmth.
- Use Quality Cream or Milk:
- Select high-quality cream or milk to create a rich and luxurious base for the creamed cabbage. The dairy component significantly impacts the overall flavor.
- Experiment with Cheese:
- Consider melting a mild cheese, such as Parmesan or Gruyère, into the creamed cabbage for an added layer of richness and umami.
- Seasoning Throughout Cooking:
- Season the cabbage at different stages of cooking to layer flavors. Adjust seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs:
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives over the creamed cabbage just before serving to impart a burst of freshness.
- Incorporate Bacon or Pancetta:
- For a smoky and savory twist, cook bacon or pancetta before sautéing the cabbage. Use the rendered fat to sauté the cabbage and incorporate the crispy bits for added texture.
- Lemon Zest or Juice:
- Add brightness to the creamed cabbage by incorporating a touch of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. This adds a citrusy note that enhances the overall flavor.
- Adjust Thickness:
- Adjust the thickness of the creamed cabbage by adding more cream or milk if needed. A creamier consistency can contribute to a richer flavor experience.
Leftovers Anyone?!
Creamed cabbage tastes great the next day! If you have leftover cabbage you can store it refrigerated in an airtight container.
I don't recommend freezing this dish. While creamed cabbage can be frozen, I'm not a fan cause the texture gets impacted too much. Freezing and reheating will likely cause the sauce to separate, resulting in a slightly different consistency.
Best Cheese To Use
The best cheese for creamed cabbage depends on personal taste preferences and the desired flavor profile of the dish. However, certain cheeses work particularly well in creamed cabbage recipes due to their melting qualities, flavor profiles, and compatibility with the other ingredients. Here are a few cheeses that are commonly used and appreciated for creamed cabbage:
- Gruyère:
- Gruyère is a Swiss cheese known for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor. When melted, it becomes creamy and contributes a rich, savory depth to creamed cabbage. The cheese's ability to melt smoothly makes it a popular choice.
- Parmesan:
- Parmesan cheese adds a robust and umami flavor to creamed cabbage. While it may not melt as smoothly as some other cheeses, its sharpness and distinct taste can complement the creamy base of the dish.
- Fontina:
- Fontina is a semi-soft Italian cheese with a mild and buttery flavor. It melts well, creating a creamy texture that complements the cabbage. Fontina's mildness allows it to enhance the dish without overpowering it.
- Cream Cheese:
- Cream cheese adds a luxurious and ultra-creamy texture to creamed cabbage. Its mild flavor allows the other ingredients, such as cabbage and spices, to shine while contributing to a velvety consistency. Though not a cheese sour cream can also be a good add for creaminess and a bit of tart flavor.
Tips for Choosing the Best Cheese:
- Consider Flavor Compatibility: Choose a cheese that complements the overall flavor profile of your creamed cabbage. Consider whether you prefer a milder or more robust cheesy taste.
- Meltability Matters: Opt for cheeses with good melting properties to ensure a smooth and creamy texture in the final dish.
Make This Easy Creamed Cabbage Recipe
In the soulful symphony of flavors, this creamed cabbage with Gruyère cheese recipe hits all the right notes. Like Marvin Gaye's smooth melodies, each bite is a harmonious blend of tender cabbage and the velvety richness of Gruyère. As you savor the comforting warmth, let the culinary rhythm take you on a journey of culinary bliss, where every taste is a soulful serenade.
If you make this delicious skillet cabbage recipe, please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.
You can also keep up with my food exploits as well as original recipes! You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. If you like any of the music you find on the site, visit me at Spotify to find curated monthly playlists.
Lastly, go to my YouTube channel and subscribe to be notified when new weekly videos are uploaded.
Ingredients
- 1 Head Green Cabbage
- 1 Fennel bulb cored and sliced
- 2 tablespoons Butter unsalted
- ½ cup Leeks sliced into thin rounds
- ½ medium Yellow Onion Diced
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 bunch Mustard Greens cut into shreds
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Ground Allspice
- ½ cup Gruyère Cheese grated
Instructions
- Mix allspice, pepper, salt, and paprika in a small ramekin. Set aside.
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium high heat.
- Add the fennel and saute 3-4 minutes as fennel begins to brown some. Season with a quarter of the dry spice mix. Stir occasionally.
- Add leeks and onions mix well. Saute another 2 minutes. Add garlic and saute another 30 seconds.
- Add the mustard greens and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add in the cabbage plus another ¼ of the spices, mix well, and cover. Let simmer at medium heat for 20 minutes. Remove lid and add the cream. Mix in well with the remaining spices and allow to simmer another 5 minutes or until your desired consistency is reached.
- Add Gruyère cheese, and stir until melted. Finish with freshly ground black pepper and more cheese if needed to meet your own taste preferences.
Video
Notes
Tips For Maximizing Flavor In This Cabbage Dish
To maximize flavor in a skillet creamed cabbage recipe, consider incorporating the following tips:- Sauté Aromatics:
- Begin by sautéing aromatics like finely chopped onions or garlic in butter or olive oil. This adds a flavorful base to the creamed cabbage.
- Choose A Fresh Head of Cabbage:
- Opt for fresh and crisp green cabbage for the best flavor and texture. Fresh cabbage imparts a sweeter and more vibrant taste to the dish. I do not recommend other cabbage types like savoy cabbage or purple cabbage.
- Add Herbs and Spices:
- Introduce herbs and spices to enhance the overall flavor profile. Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, parsley, or dill can bring depth, while a pinch of nutmeg adds warmth.
- Use Quality Cream or Milk:
- Select high-quality cream or milk to create a rich and luxurious base for the creamed cabbage. The dairy component significantly impacts the overall flavor.
- Experiment with Cheese:
- Consider melting a mild cheese, such as Parmesan or Gruyère, into the creamed cabbage for an added layer of richness and umami.
- Seasoning Throughout Cooking:
- Season the cabbage at different stages of cooking to layer flavors. Adjust seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs:
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives over the creamed cabbage just before serving to impart a burst of freshness.
- Incorporate Bacon or Pancetta:
- For a smoky and savory twist, cook bacon or pancetta before sautéing the cabbage. Use the rendered fat to sauté the cabbage and incorporate the crispy bits for added texture.
- Lemon Zest or Juice:
- Add brightness to the creamed cabbage by incorporating a touch of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. This adds a citrusy note that enhances the overall flavor.
- Adjust Thickness:
- Adjust the thickness of the creamed cabbage by adding more cream or milk if needed. A creamier consistency can contribute to a richer flavor experience.
Hayley Dhanecha
Monday 25th of December 2023
I have never heard of creamed cabbage, sounds so delicious and flavourful. Thanks for sharing.
Tammy
Sunday 24th of December 2023
What a delicious and rich idea for a side veggie! I've never had creamed cabbage before but it sounds absolutely scrumptious with the leeks too!
Lisa
Sunday 24th of December 2023
I love this side dish next to boiled corned beef. Thanks for the delicious recipe!
Jamie
Sunday 24th of December 2023
Wow! This cabbage dish recipe looks incredibly delicious! Love the cheesy texture, makes this so enticing and very tempting! Loved it!
Laura Arteaga
Sunday 24th of December 2023
I wanted to cook cabbage in a different way for Christmas Eve, and this was definitely such a great recipe to follow. It turned out amazing. Already looking forward having the leftover tomorrow!