
This recipe is a variation of one of our favorite side dishes, Hungarian Cabbage Noodles. The addition of a healthy dose of garlic, fresh thyme, a hint of balsamic vinegar and a topping of Parmesan cheese creates a savory flavor profile that complements the sweetness of the sautéed cabbage and lends the dish a bit of an Italian flare.

Parmesan Pasta with Cabbage and Thyme
A savory, Italian-inspired side dish that combines your favorite cut of pasta with sautéed cabbage, garlic, fresh thyme and a topping of grated Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces pasta, cavatappi, rotini, penne
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 5 cups cabbage, finely chopped (1-1/4 to 1-1/2 lbs)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 6 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup half-and-half or light cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Put a pot of salted water on to boil for the pasta and preheat the oven to 350°F. Coat a medium-sized baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 1 minute, then add half the cabbage and continue cooking until it cooks down slightly, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the remaining cabbage and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Continue cooking the cabbage, stirring frequently, until it’s tender and lightly caramelized, 12 to 15 minutes. Add the garlic and thyme and continue cooking 3 to 4 minutes longer.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Stir in the half-and-half, cook for 1 minute longer, then remove from the heat and set aside.
- Cook and drain the pasta according to package directions, then combine it with the cabbage mixture and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with the Parmesan cheese and bake, uncovered, until the cheese is golden brown, 15 to 18 minutes.
Have you tried this recipe?Did you add your own special touch? We’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment and a rating to share your thoughts with others.
Connie L says
I tried this pasta dish with the Herb Crusted Pork Roast and it really went well with it. Thanks for the recipe.