30+ Delicious Italian Cabbage Recipes for Every Meal

Italian cuisine is a treasure trove of recipes that celebrate simplicity, flavor, and the use of fresh ingredients.

Among the many versatile vegetables in the Italian culinary repertoire, cabbage often takes a backseat to its more famous counterparts like tomatoes or zucchini.

But cabbage is an unsung hero of the kitchen, capable of transforming into hearty soups, savory casseroles, and even delicate side dishes.

Its ability to absorb flavors and its satisfying texture make it a staple in many Italian households.

This collection of 30+ Italian cabbage recipes showcases the versatility of this humble vegetable.

Whether you’re looking for quick and easy dishes for weeknights, hearty meals for family dinners, or elegant creations for entertaining guests, you’ll find a recipe to inspire your cooking.

From classic soups and comforting gratins to creative pasta dishes and stuffed rolls, these recipes offer a delicious journey through Italian flavors.

30+ Delicious Italian Cabbage Recipes for Every Meal

Cabbage may not always be the first vegetable you think of when it comes to Italian cooking, but its versatility and ability to absorb rich flavors make it an essential ingredient in many traditional and contemporary dishes.

This collection of 30+ Italian cabbage recipes is a testament to its culinary potential.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Italian cabbage soup, a cheesy gratin, or a creative pasta dish, these recipes will inspire you to use cabbage in new and exciting ways.

Perfect for everyday meals or special occasions, they bring a touch of Italian flair to your table.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab a head of cabbage, and start exploring the delicious possibilities! Your taste buds—and your family—will thank you.

Italian Braised Cabbage with Tomatoes

This comforting Italian braised cabbage dish combines tender cabbage with the vibrant flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian main, this recipe showcases how humble ingredients can transform into a savory, soul-warming delight. The slow cooking allows the cabbage to absorb the tangy and herby tomato sauce, making every bite a flavor-packed experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium green cabbage, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage and sauté for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and black pepper. Stir well.
6. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Once the cabbage is tender and the flavors melded, remove from heat.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Italian Braised Cabbage with Tomatoes is a wholesome, hearty dish that embodies the essence of Italian comfort food. Serve it alongside crusty bread or as a complement to roasted meats for a memorable meal. This recipe proves that simplicity can be incredibly satisfying.

Italian Sausage and Cabbage Stir-Fry

This quick and savory stir-fry combines Italian sausage, tender cabbage, and fragrant spices to create a flavorful one-pan dish. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, delivering a hearty and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. The caramelized sausage adds depth, while the cabbage brings a subtle sweetness that balances the dish beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 4 Italian sausage links (mild or spicy), sliced
• 1 small head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Add the sliced cabbage and fennel seeds, stirring well. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
5. Return the sausage to the skillet and mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Italian Sausage and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a robust, flavor-packed dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Pair it with a simple salad or serve over polenta for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Stuffed Italian Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed Italian cabbage rolls are a classic dish filled with seasoned ground meat, rice, and Italian herbs, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is both comforting and elegant, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions. It’s a labor of love that’s well worth the effort.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of savoy or green cabbage
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove 10-12 large cabbage leaves and blanch them for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, egg, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Place a generous spoonful of the filling onto each cabbage leaf and roll tightly, tucking in the sides.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Cover and simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese.

Stuffed Italian Cabbage Rolls are a deliciously comforting dish that brings classic Italian flavors to your table. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.

Tuscan Cabbage and White Bean Soup

Tuscan Cabbage and White Bean Soup is a hearty, rustic dish that captures the essence of Italian countryside cooking. Loaded with tender cabbage, creamy white beans, and fragrant herbs, this soup is comforting and nourishing. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe pairs well with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying, wholesome meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 small head of savoy cabbage, shredded
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic, thyme, and rosemary, cooking for another minute.
4. Add the shredded cabbage and sauté for 3 minutes until slightly wilted.
5. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Add the white beans, season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tuscan Cabbage and White Bean Soup is a warm and flavorful dish that highlights the simplicity of Italian cuisine. With its earthy ingredients and comforting aroma, this soup is a true crowd-pleaser and an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Italian Cabbage and Pancetta Pasta

This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines tender cabbage and crispy pancetta with spaghetti for a simple yet elegant meal. The combination of savory pancetta, caramelized cabbage, and a touch of Parmesan creates a rich, satisfying flavor profile. It’s a quick recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual entertaining.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 1 small head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 4 oz pancetta, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
4. Add sliced cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Return pancetta to the skillet and mix. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss to combine.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, adding pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
7. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.

Italian Cabbage and Pancetta Pasta is a delightful way to elevate simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish. With its blend of textures and savory flavors, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your pasta repertoire.

Italian Cabbage and Potato Frittata

This Italian-inspired frittata combines tender cabbage, creamy potatoes, and eggs into a versatile dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. The subtle sweetness of the cabbage pairs beautifully with the hearty potatoes and the richness of the eggs, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 1 small head of cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add potatoes and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender and lightly golden.
3. Add the garlic and cabbage, cooking for 5 minutes until softened. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the cabbage and potatoes in the skillet. Cook on the stovetop for 3-4 minutes until the edges begin to set.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the frittata is fully set and golden on top.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm or at room temperature.

Italian Cabbage and Potato Frittata is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. Serve it with a crisp green salad or fresh bread for a complete and balanced meal that’s sure to please.

Italian Stuffed Cabbage with Ricotta and Spinach

Italian Stuffed Cabbage with Ricotta and Spinach is a delightful vegetarian take on a classic dish. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, then baked in a zesty marinara sauce. This recipe combines the comfort of Italian flavors with a lighter, nutrient-packed filling, making it perfect for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of savoy cabbage
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch 8-10 cabbage leaves for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon the filling into each cabbage leaf and roll tightly. Place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the rolls and cover the dish with foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the rolls are heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

This Italian Stuffed Cabbage with Ricotta and Spinach is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Pair it with garlic bread or a side salad for a meal that’s sure to impress.

Italian Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan

Italian Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural sweetness of cabbage. Thick slices of cabbage are roasted to caramelized perfection, topped with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs well with any Italian-inspired main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of green cabbage, sliced into 1-inch steaks
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, basil)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange cabbage steaks on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs. Brush the mixture over both sides of the cabbage steaks.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the edges are golden and caramelized.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan over the cabbage steaks and roast for an additional 5 minutes until melted.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

These Italian Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan are a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal. They’re quick to prepare yet deliver a complex, roasted flavor that’s sure to elevate your dinner table.

Italian Cabbage and Lentil Stew

Italian Cabbage and Lentil Stew is a hearty, protein-packed dish that combines earthy lentils, tender cabbage, and aromatic Italian herbs. Perfect for chilly days, this comforting stew is not only nourishing but also a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a glass of red wine for a cozy, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in garlic, oregano, and thyme, cooking for another minute.
3. Add the lentils, cabbage, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Italian Cabbage and Lentil Stew is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it a satisfying meal, whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd.

Italian Braised Cabbage with Tomatoes

Italian Braised Cabbage with Tomatoes is a rustic side dish bursting with flavor. This recipe combines tender cabbage, ripe tomatoes, and a medley of herbs for a rich and savory dish. Slowly simmered to perfection, this recipe pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or as part of a vegetarian feast. It’s a dish that truly celebrates the simplicity and richness of Italian cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of green cabbage, shredded
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the cabbage and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly.
5. Add diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Cover and simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Italian Braised Cabbage with Tomatoes is a delicious and comforting dish that highlights the beauty of slow-cooked vegetables. Its rich flavors and tender texture make it an excellent addition to any Italian-inspired meal.

Italian Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

Italian Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is a quick and satisfying one-pan dish that combines savory Italian sausage with tender cabbage and aromatic spices. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this hearty recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or polenta for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
• 4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy), sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and fennel seeds, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the cabbage and paprika. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Return the sausage to the skillet and mix well. Cook for an additional 3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Italian Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy days. The combination of savory sausage and sweet cabbage creates a balanced and satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Italian Cabbage and Polenta Bake

Italian Cabbage and Polenta Bake is a layered dish that combines creamy polenta, sautéed cabbage, and gooey cheese for a decadent yet comforting meal. This recipe showcases the versatility of cabbage, transforming it into a rich and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup quick-cooking polenta
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion until softened. Add cabbage and thyme, cooking for 8-10 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a saucepan, bring broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in polenta, cooking until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. In a greased baking dish, spread half of the polenta as the base layer. Add the sautéed cabbage as the middle layer. Top with the remaining polenta.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Italian Cabbage and Polenta Bake is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that brings comfort to the dinner table. Its layers of flavor and texture make it a crowd-pleaser, ideal for cozy family meals or festive occasions.

Italian Cabbage and Bean Soup

Italian Cabbage and Bean Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe combines tender cabbage, creamy cannellini beans, and a flavorful broth infused with Italian herbs. With its robust flavors and nourishing ingredients, this soup is ideal for warming up on chilly days and pairs beautifully with crusty bread or focaccia.

Ingredients:

• 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic, oregano, and rosemary, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in cabbage, beans, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Italian Cabbage and Bean Soup is a simple yet flavorful recipe that delivers comfort in every bowl. Its wholesome ingredients and aromatic herbs make it a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and enjoy.

Italian Cabbage and Potato Gratin

Italian Cabbage and Potato Gratin is a creamy and indulgent dish that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners. Layers of tender cabbage, thinly sliced potatoes, and a luscious cheese sauce come together to create a casserole that’s rich in flavor and texture. This dish is a celebration of rustic Italian comfort food at its finest.

Ingredients:

• 1 small head of savoy cabbage, shredded
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the cabbage for 2 minutes and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until the sauce thickens. Stir in half of the cheese and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In a greased baking dish, layer potatoes, cabbage, and cheese sauce. Repeat layers, ending with sauce.
5. Top with remaining cheese and Parmesan. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Italian Cabbage and Potato Gratin is a decadent and comforting casserole that’s sure to impress. Its creamy layers and cheesy topping make it a standout dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice is a classic comfort food that combines tender cabbage leaves with a savory filling of ground beef, rice, and herbs. Baked in a rich tomato sauce, this hearty dish is a family favorite that’s both delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch cabbage leaves for 2-3 minutes and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix ground beef, rice, egg, onion, garlic, Parmesan, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Place a scoop of the filling onto each cabbage leaf and roll tightly. Arrange rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the rolls and cover with foil. Bake for 45-50 minutes until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice are a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner. With its tender cabbage and savory filling, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!