This easy buttered cabbage recipe is a quick and delicious side dish made with tender cabbage and rich butter. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive feasts, it’s ready in under 10 minutes!
Cabbage is one of our favourite sides during the colder months when we have a hearty comforting pie or a roast dinner.
Tips
- Cabbage alternatives – white cabbage or savoy cabbage will also work well for this recipe.
- Butter alternatives - use olive oil or a blend of butter and oil for a lighter option.
- Vegan option - replace butter with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Herbs and spices - try garnishing with fresh ferbs like parsley, dill or chives for added freshness. A pinch of cumin or smoked paprika can provide a unique twist.
- Additions - toss in crispy bacon bits, toasted nuts or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for a more indulgent version.
- Citrus and sweetness - add a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of honey to balance the richness of the butter with a bright, sweet note.
- Leftovers - use any leftover cabbage as a filling for a savoury omelette or stir it into a fried rice dish for added flavour. Or, add it to a soup or stew for a heart, vegetable-packed meal.
- This easy buttered cabbage recipe is easily adapted if you’re cooking for less or more people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Avoid overcooking the cabbage by sautéing it over a medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, just until tender. Keeping the heat moderate ensures the cabbage retains its texture and colour.
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare buttered cabbage in advance and reheat it gently on the hob or in the microwave. Add a little extra butter during reheating to refresh its flavour.
Yes - frozen cabbage can be used. Thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before cooking. Keep in mind that frozen cabbage may have a softer texture than fresh.
Absolutely - use a plant-based butter alternative or olive oil to make this dish vegan-friendly while keeping its rich flavour.
Buttered cabbage pairs well with roasted meats, sausages, or hearty dishes like pot roast, shepherd’s pie, or roast chicken. It’s also a great addition to holiday feasts.
Other recipes you might also like to try
Click here for all side dishes.
Recent New Recipes
Category Spotlight...
CHRISTMAS RECIPES
On here you'll find loads of delicious recipes, including ideas for gifting. Do you know what sides you want to make for the big day or over the festive season? There's so many to pick from and I always make too much!!
HOW TO MAKE THIS EASY BUTTERED CABBAGE
Ingredients
- 1 sweetheart cabbage (approx. 800g) (see Tips)
- cooking salt
- 30g butter (see Tips)
- freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Quarter the cabbage lengthwise, remove the core and then shred each quarter (approx. 2cm).
- Add the shredded cabbage to a large saucepan of boiling water and add some cooking salt. Cover the pan with a lid, bring back to the boil and cook on a continuous simmer for 6 minutes.
- Drain well in a colander, return to the saucepan and stir in the butter until it’s melted. Season with freshly ground black pepper and transfer to a serving bowl. Serve immediately.
Goes Well With
Recipe Collection Spotlight...
8 FESTIVE SIDES
I don't know about you, but I ALWAYS make too many side dishes on Christmas Day...I can't help myself, we have too many favourites!! This collection has 8 festive sides for you to make and enjoy...and remember, it's always good to have leftovers!!
Did you make this recipe?
I’d love to hear how it went…both good and bad!
Please go to the bottom of the page to rate the recipe and/or leave your comments.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It would also be great if you could take a photo and tag #FellyBull on social media, thanks.
Subscribe to receive our new and highlighted recipes in your email inbox each week...plus receive our new e-Cookbook for free!!!
✉️
Easy Buttered Cabbage
Ingredients
- 1 (2 lb) sweetheart cabbage (approx. 800g) (see Notes)
- cooking salt
- 30 g (1.1 oz) butter (see Notes)
- freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Quarter the cabbage lengthwise, remove the core and then shred each quarter (approx. 2cm).
- Add the shredded cabbage to a large saucepan of boiling water and add some cooking salt. Cover the pan with a lid, bring back to the boil and cook on a continuous simmer for 6 minutes.
- Drain well in a colander, return to the saucepan and stir in the butter until it’s melted. Season with freshly ground black pepper and transfer to a serving bowl. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Cabbage alternatives – white cabbage or savoy cabbage will also work well for this recipe.
- Butter alternatives - use olive oil or a blend of butter and oil for a lighter option.
- Vegan option - replace butter with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Herbs and spices - try garnishing with fresh ferbs like parsley, dill or chives for added freshness. A pinch of cumin or smoked paprika can provide a unique twist.
- Additions - toss in crispy bacon bits, toasted nuts or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for a more indulgent version.
- Citrus and sweetness - add a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of honey to balance the richness of the butter with a bright, sweet note.
- Leftovers - use any leftover cabbage as a filling for a savoury omelette or stir it into a fried rice dish for added flavour. Or, add it to a soup or stew for a heart, vegetable-packed meal.
- This easy buttered cabbage recipe is easily adapted if you’re cooking for less or more people.
LEAVE A COMMENT AND RATE THIS RECIPE