Creamy Baked Cabbage is a rich, savory side dish that delivers all the indulgence of creamed spinach using hearty green cabbage instead. Bacon fat, butter, garlic, cream cheese, and Parmesan come together to create a deeply flavorful, oven-baked dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly elegant. It’s an excellent alternative when spinach is scarce—and proof that cabbage can be just as luxurious.

Ingredients

• 6 strips bacon
• 8 Tablespoon butter
• 6 cloves garlic, sliced
• 1 large head green cabbage, shredded
• 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup Parmesan Reggiano, grated

Preparation

1. Render Bacon: In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until the fat is rendered and the bacon is lightly crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside; leave the bacon fat in the pot.
2. Build the Base: Add the butter to the bacon fat and melt. Add the sliced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Wilt the Cabbage: Add half of the shredded cabbage, tossing well to coat in the butter and fat. Season with half of the salt and pepper. Cover and let sweat for about 5 minutes until reduced.
4. Finish the Cabbage: Remove the lid, add the remaining cabbage, the rest of the salt and pepper, and the apple cider vinegar. Toss thoroughly, cover again, and cook for another 5 minutes until fully softened.
5. Make It Creamy: Remove the lid and stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream until fully melted and combined.
6. Assemble: Butter an 8 × 8 baking dish. Transfer the cabbage mixture into the dish, pressing it down firmly to compact it.
7. Top & Bake: Crumble the reserved bacon over the top, then sprinkle evenly with the Parmesan Reggiano. Cover with foil and bake in a 375° oven for 30 minutes.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot.

Optional Substitutions

• Evaporated Milk: Substitute 3/4 cup evaporated milk for the heavy cream for a slightly lighter but still creamy texture.
• Extra Rich Option: Use 1/2 cup evaporated milk + 1/4 cup heavy cream for balance between richness and reduced fat.
• Cheese Options: Parmesan Reggiano may be replaced with Pecorino Romano or mozzarella if desired