What to Make with a Head of Cabbage (12 Easy, Healthy Ideas)

Cabbage doesn't always get the spotlight, but it's honestly one of the most useful veggies to keep around. It lasts forever, it's super affordable, and you can turn it into a meal without much effort.

If you've got a head of cabbage and need a little inspiration, here are 12 easy and healthy ways to use it up! No fancy ingredients, just simple, tasty ideas you'll actually want to make.

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What to Make with a Head of Cabbage

1. Cabbage Stir Fry

This is my go-to when I need dinner fast. Slice the cabbage thin, toss it in a hot pan with garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and any veggies or protein hanging around. Done in under 15 minutes.

Ground Turkey Cabbage Stir Fry

This Ground Turkey Cabbage Stir Fry is a fast and healthy one-pan dinner made with lean turkey, crunchy cabbage, and a spicy homemade sauce.

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Ground turkey cabbage stir fry with sriracha and sesame seeds.

2. Cabbage Soup

There's a reason cabbage soup has stood the test of time. It's healthy, cozy, and perfect for meal prep. Plus, it's a great way to use up that whole head in one shot.

Try it with:

Diced tomatoes
Carrots
White beans or lentils
A pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes

Detox Cabbage Potato Soup (Vegetarian)

Enjoy a bowl of this detox cabbage potato soup with green cabbage, onion, carrot, celery, potatoes, and vegetable broth, seasoned with turmeric and paprika.

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3. Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Yes, cabbage can go in the oven-and it's amazing. Slice it into thick rounds, drizzle with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder, then roast at 425°F for about 25 minutes.

They get crispy on the outside and tender inside. Pair with chicken or chickpeas for a healthy dinner.

Easy Roasted Cabbage Steaks

These Roasted Cabbage Steaks are so easy and delicious. Made with only six ingredients, this simple recipe makes a flavorful snack or side that you're going to just love! A whole head of cabbage is transformed into thick slices, roasted until tender and caramelized on the inside, and irresistibly crispy on the outside. Whether you make it in the oven or on the grill, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with any meal.

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cabbage steaks with freshly grated parmesan and lime slices

4. Cabbage Slaw (Not Just for Burgers)

Shred it and toss with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, a little Dijon, salt, and pepper. This simple slaw makes a great side dish for tacos, grilled fish, or veggie burgers.

Easy Shrimp Tacos (Grill or Pan!)

Easy Shrimp Tacos are made with large and tender shrimp that have been marinated before grilled and then packed into corn or flour tortillas with a spicy creamy sauce and some favorite toppings like cabbage slaw, red onion, radish, chopped fresh cilantro, and Cotija cheese! Grilled or pan fried!

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5. Cabbage Wraps

Skip the tortillas! Use large cabbage leaves as wraps and fill them with cooked ground chicken, beans, or even leftover stir fry.

These are super light but still filling. I love adding a drizzle of spicy mayo or peanut sauce.

Ground Turkey Wraps with Tahini Sauce

Quick, healthy, and flavorful! These Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps with homemade lemon Tahini sauce are packed with protein, sweet potato, and a creamy, tangy sauce. Ready in under 20 minutes!

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6. Sautéed Cabbage

Sauteed Cabbage Recipe (Vegan)

Sautéed cabbage is a surprisingly flavorful side dish. Thinly sliced cabbage is combined with tomato paste, carrots, and onions, and then caramelized to a golden brown perfection. It's delicious and I assure you, you'll be coming back for seconds.

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7. Add It to Fried Rice

If you've got leftover rice, toss in some chopped cabbage with whatever veggies and protein you like. It bulks things up and adds a little crunch, especially if you only cook it for a couple of minutes.

I do this at least once a week-especially when the fridge is looking empty.

Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

In just 20 minutes and with one skillet, you'll have a chicken fried rice that beats takeout any day! Bursting with flavor, tender chicken, and without the grease of traditional options.

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8. Spicy Sauteed Cabbage

Spicy Sauteed Cabbage, Kale and Chickpeas Skillet (Vegetarian)

This easy sautéed cabbage, kale, and chickpeas skillet is a quick, flavorful one-pot vegetarian meal with a spicy twist. Easily made vegan, is gluten-free, and ready in 30 minutes.

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9. Ground Beef and Rice with Cabbage

Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice

This cabbage, ground beef, and rice skillet is a quick and hearty one-pan meal! Packed with flavor, it's an easy, budget-friendly dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

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10. Cabbage and Beans

One Pan Cabbage and Beans Dinner

One pan cabbage and beans dinner is an easy, healthy, and flavorful dish. Packed with veggies, beans, and spices, it's perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

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11. Chicken Stir Fry

Easy Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry

This Easy Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick, healthy, and delicious weeknight dinner! Ready in just 20 minutes, it's packed with flavor and perfect for busy families.

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12. Air Fryer Cabbage

Easy Air Fryer Cabbage

Air Fryer cabbage is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish, a main course, or as a healthy snack. It is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, making it a great nutritious addition to your diet. Made with only 2 ingredients, seasonings, this tender cabbage is gluten free, low calorie and low-carb dish.

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