Description
Cabbage Parmesan is a delicious and hearty vegetarian dish featuring tender seared cabbage slices layered with garlic, fresh basil, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella and Pecorino Romano cheeses. Baked to golden perfection, this comforting recipe offers a delightful twist on classic Parmesan preparations, perfect as a main or side.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cabbage and Seasoning
- 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons neutral oil, divided
- 1 large head green cabbage
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 4 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, plus more for serving
For Topping
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella, 1/4-inch thick
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Sear the Cabbage: Heat 1/3 cup neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Trim off the two ends of the cabbage, then cut it lengthwise into four slices about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick. Carefully remove the core from each slice, ensuring the layers stay intact. Place the cabbage slices in the hot oil and season with kosher salt. Cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on both sides, about 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer browned cabbage slices to the foil-lined baking sheet.
- Prepare Garlic Basil Oil and Assemble: In a small bowl, combine the grated garlic, chopped basil, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of neutral oil. Brush this mixture generously over the top of each cabbage slice. Spoon approximately 1/4 cup marinara sauce onto each slice, sprinkle with Pecorino Romano cheese, and top each with two slices of fresh mozzarella.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cabbage slices until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 18 to 20 minutes.
- Serve: Transfer the baked cabbage Parmesan to a serving platter, drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves. Serve warm as a satisfying main or side dish.
Notes
- For a sharper flavor, use Parmesan instead of Pecorino Romano.
- Ensure cabbage slices remain thick and intact to hold the toppings without breaking apart.
- You can substitute neutral oil with avocado or grapeseed oil for a healthier fat option.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven to maintain the cheese texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 27 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Cabbage Parmesan, baked cabbage, vegetarian Parmesan, Italian vegetarian dish, vegetarian main course
