I can’t wait to share this incredible Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles recipe with you! It’s honestly one of my family’s all-time favorites, and I know it’ll become a regular in your kitchen too. Let me tell you a little story about how this dish came into my life…
It was a chilly autumn evening a few years back, and I was craving something warm, comforting, and full of flavor. I had a head of cabbage sitting on the counter that needed to be used up, and that’s when the idea for Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles first struck me. I’ll admit, at first I was a bit skeptical – cabbage noodles? Really? But I figured, why not give it a shot?
I chopped up that cabbage, sauteed it with lots of fragrant garlic and a generous pat of butter, and within 20 minutes, I had the most delightfully tender, savory, and irresistible “noodle” dish. The cabbage noodles soaked up all that rich, garlicky butter flavor, and the texture was just heavenly – not too soft, not too crunchy. It was absolute perfection. From that first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon a new family favorite. Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles have been on regular rotation in my kitchen ever since!
Why This Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles
The secret to this Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles recipe is in the technique. By thinly slicing the cabbage into noodle-like strands, you create the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that rich, garlicky butter sauce. Plus, the quick sauté method ensures the cabbage stays tender-crisp, never mushy. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll never go back to regular old cabbage again!
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cabbage – Look for a fresh, vibrant head of green or purple cabbage. Slice it thinly for the best “noodle” texture.
- Butter – Use a good quality, unsalted butter for maximum flavor.
- Garlic – Lots of fresh, minced garlic is a must for this recipe. It’s the star of the show!
- Salt and pepper – Simple seasonings to enhance the other flavors.
- Optional add-ins – Grated parmesan, fresh parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Step-by-Step Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles Instructions
Preparing Your Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles
This Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, start to finish. All you’ll need is a large skillet or wok, a sharp knife, and a few simple ingredients. Let’s get started!
1- Start by slicing the cabbage into thin, noodle-like strips, about 1/4 inch thick. Try to slice them as evenly as possible for the best texture.
2- Melt the butter in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the butter is bubbly, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3- Immediately add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and toss to coat everything evenly in the garlic butter. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
4- Season the Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles with salt and pepper to taste. You’ll know they’re ready when the cabbage is soft but still has a nice bite to it.
5- For the finishing touch, feel free to stir in a handful of grated parmesan, some fresh chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
6- Serve your Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfectly tender-crisp Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles is to not overcook the cabbage. Be sure to keep an eye on it and stir frequently during the sauté process. You also want to slice the cabbage as evenly as possible for the best texture.
And don’t be afraid to get creative with add-ins! A squeeze of lemon juice, some toasted nuts, or a handful of fresh herbs can really take this dish to the next level.
Serving and Storing Your Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles
Perfect Pairings for Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles
Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles make a fantastic main dish, but they also work beautifully as a side. Serve them alongside grilled or roasted proteins like chicken, salmon, or steak for a complete and satisfying meal. They also pair wonderfully with hearty soups or crusty bread for dipping in that irresistible garlic butter sauce.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also freeze the noodles for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
For meal prep, you can slice the cabbage and make the garlic butter sauce in advance. Then, when you’re ready to eat, all you have to do is sauté the cabbage noodles for a quick and easy side dish.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles
Creative Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles Variations
- Try using a mix of different cabbages, like red, green, and Savoy, for a colorful twist.
- Add in some sautéed mushrooms, diced onions, or even crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
- Use ghee or olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
- Stir in some toasted sesame seeds or sliced almonds for a nice crunch.
Making Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles Diet-Friendly
For a low-carb or keto-friendly take on Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles, simply omit the butter and use extra virgin olive oil instead. You can also reduce the amount of butter and add in some chicken or vegetable broth to make it a bit lighter.
To make this dish vegan, swap the butter for your favorite plant-based alternative, like coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also add in some roasted chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cabbage besides green?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works great with a variety of cabbage types, including red, Savoy, or even a mix. Just be sure to slice them thinly for the best texture.
Q: How do I know when the Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles are done?
A: The cabbage should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Taste a piece and look for a bright green color. It should take 5-7 minutes of sautéing over medium-high heat.
Q: Can I make Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can definitely prep this dish in advance! Slice the cabbage and make the garlic butter sauce separately, then sauté the cabbage just before serving. The noodles will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Q: How much does this recipe serve?
A: This Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles recipe serves 4 as a main dish or 6-8 as a side. You can easily scale it up or down to fit your needs.
Q: What if my cabbage noodles turn out too soft or mushy?
A: If the cabbage gets overcooked, it can turn soggy. Next time, be sure not to overcrowd the pan and sauté the cabbage for just 5-7 minutes over medium-high heat. You want it tender-crisp, not completely limp.
Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles
- Total Time: 10
- Yield: 4
Description
Indulge in the mouthwatering flavor of these Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles. This quick and easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious, low-carb dinner that’s ready in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
– 1 head green cabbage, thinly sliced into ‘noodles’
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. – Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. – Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. – Add the sliced cabbage noodles and season with salt and pepper.
4. – Sauté the cabbage for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and coated in the garlic butter sauce.
5. – Serve the Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles immediately, garnished with extra parsley or chives if desired.
Notes
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end. You can also add cooked chicken or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 5
- Category: Main Courses
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
There you have it, my friends – the most delicious and easy-to-make Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles recipe! I truly hope this dish becomes a new staple in your household, just like it is in mine. The combination of tender-crisp cabbage, rich garlic butter, and optional tasty add-ins is just so satisfying.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Garlic Butter Cabbage Noodles for yourself. Let me know in the comments how it turns out, and be sure to share your creation on social media! Enjoy.