If you are looking for a dish that is both comforting and bursting with flavor, the Marry Me Melting Cabbage with Creamy Tuscan Sauce Recipe is the answer. This gorgeous baked cabbage dish, drenched in a luscious creamy Tuscan sauce loaded with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant herbs, will absolutely melt in your mouth and perhaps even inspire a lifelong devotion to cabbage. It’s a perfect centerpiece for cozy dinners when you want something impressive but not complicated, combining tender cabbage wedges with a silky, savory sauce that feels truly indulgent while staying wholesome.

A close-up view of a creamy pasta dish served on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The pasta is layered in thick, twisted noodles with a light golden yellow color, covered generously with a thick, pale brown creamy sauce that has visible small chunks inside. Green herb leaves and small red chili flakes are sprinkled on top, adding bright green and red colors. Freshly grated white cheese is scattered over the pasta, enhancing the texture and look. A large silver spoon is shown pouring more of the sauce onto the pasta from above. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the crisp cabbage creating texture and earthy notes to the cream cheese and heavy cream delivering that dreamy velvety sauce, and the sun-dried tomatoes bringing bursts of subtle sweetness and color.

Green cabbage (1 head, 900-1100 g): Choose a firm and fresh head for the best texture and flavor when baked.
Olive oil (3 tbsps): Helps to sear the cabbage for that golden crust and adds a fruity richness.
Butter (2 tbsps): Adds depth and silkiness to the creamy sauce base.
Red onion (½ cup, finely diced): Provides a mild sweetness and delicate crunch as it softens in the sauce.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with unmistakable Tuscan warmth and aroma.
Low-sodium chicken broth (1 cup): Deglazes the pan and adds subtle savory complexity without overpowering.
Full-fat cream cheese (4 oz, softened and cubed): Gives the sauce its creamy body and tangy richness.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Amplifies creaminess and ensures the sauce is wonderfully smooth.
Sun-dried tomatoes in oil (½ cup, julienned): Add a punch of sweet-tart flavor and vibrant color to brighten the dish.
Dried oregano, thyme, rosemary (1 tsp, 1 tsp, ½ tsp): Classic Mediterranean herbs that lend an earthy, aromatic finish.
Table salt (1 tsp): Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds a mild spicy kick to elevate the palate.
Red pepper flakes (1 tsp, optional): For those who like a little heat to contrast creaminess.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup grated): Melts beautifully into the sauce, layering in nutty umami richness.
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Provides a fresh, herbaceous brightness as a final touch.
Extra Parmesan (optional): Perfect for sprinkling on at the table to add a salty finish.

How to Make Marry Me Melting Cabbage with Creamy Tuscan Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, carefully cut the cabbage into 8 wedges, keeping the core intact in each piece to help them hold together during cooking. This sets the stage for evenly cooked, beautifully shaped wedges that soak up all the sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Cabbage

Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each cabbage wedge for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and caramelized. Don’t rush this step, as the searing locks in flavor and develops a wonderful texture contrast to the creamy sauce. Season the wedges with salt and pepper, then transfer them to a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Cook the diced red onion for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant but not browned. Add minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until its aroma fills your kitchen—you don’t want the garlic to burn, so keep stirring continually here!

Step 4: Deglaze and Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from searing the cabbage. This technique adds deep flavor to the sauce. Next, stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts fully and becomes smooth with no lumps. Then, add the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce and Bake

Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until it’s completely melted and well incorporated, creating a perfectly luscious texture. Nestle the seared cabbage wedges back into the skillet, spooning generous amounts of creamy Tuscan sauce over each wedge. Cover with foil or a lid and bake in the oven for 45 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften and absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Final Bake and Rest

After 45 minutes, remove the cover, baste the cabbage with more sauce, and bake uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes until the wedges are fork-tender and the sauce bubbles invitingly. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a dazzling presentation.

How to Serve Marry Me Melting Cabbage with Creamy Tuscan Sauce Recipe

A black pan contains four thick wedges of cooked cabbage, each wedge showing multiple layers of pale green and white leaves with some charred brown edges. The wedges sit in a creamy light orange sauce that fills the bottom of the pan and coats the cabbage. The dish is topped with scattered grated cheese, small red pepper flakes, and chopped green herbs. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface with small dishes around it, enhancing the rustic and fresh look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Pair this with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese to intensify the salty, nutty notes, offering a perfect finish both visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

This dish stands out deliciously on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the extra sauce. A light, crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterbalance, making your meal feel complete and satisfying without being too heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve each wedge on a warmed plate, spooning over extra sauce and garnishing with a sprig of fresh herbs like thyme or oregano alongside the parsley. You can also serve this in individual small cast iron skillets, which keeps the cabbage warm and brings a rustic charm to the table — perfect for impressing guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Marry Me Melting Cabbage with Creamy Tuscan Sauce Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The cabbage continues to absorb the sauce flavors overnight, making leftovers even more delicious. Just be sure to reheat gently to preserve texture.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the sauce smooth and the cabbage tender without becoming mushy.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Stir the sauce occasionally to keep it creamy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the sauce can separate and the texture may suffer.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and it remains just as flavorful and satisfying. The richness of the creamy sauce and the sun-dried tomatoes ensure no one will miss the meat.

Can I use red or savoy cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Yes, red or savoy cabbage would work well. Red cabbage will add a gorgeous, vibrant color and slightly sweeter flavor, while savoy cabbage offers tender leaves that cook quickly. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed, but the creamy Tuscan sauce complements all wonderfully.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this Marry Me Melting Cabbage with Creamy Tuscan Sauce Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure your broth and any other optional ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?

Definitely! You can chop the cabbage wedges and prepare the sauce up to a day ahead. Store separately and assemble right before baking. This makes the final cooking process quick and easy for busy evenings or entertaining.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A light to medium-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the herbs and creamy sauce beautifully. If you prefer red, a delicate Pinot Noir with bright acidity will also balance well without overpowering the gentle cabbage flavors.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Marry Me Melting Cabbage with Creamy Tuscan Sauce Recipe — it’s a dish that feels classic yet adventurous, cozy yet sophisticated. Once you taste the tender cabbage enveloped in that rich, herb-infused sauce, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite to make again and again. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try and share the warmth and deliciousness with your loved ones. You just might find your new signature comfort dish!

Marry Me Melting Cabbage with Creamy Tuscan Sauce Recipe