Description

Creamy Caramelized Cabbage Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for cozy weeknight dinners. This recipe features tender caramelized cabbage, aromatic garlic, and fresh thyme combined with whole wheat spaghetti in a rich, velvety sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. A splash of sherry vinegar adds brightness, balancing the creamy, savory flavors in every bite. Quick to prepare and wonderfully satisfying, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a hearty vegetarian meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

8 oz whole wheat spaghetti (can substitute with gluten-free pasta)

Sauce and Vegetables

3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
1/2 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
2 tbsp garlic, thinly sliced
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)
2 tbsp sherry vinegar
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 oz grated Parmesan cheese, divided (use vegetarian Parmesan for meatless option)

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Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the whole wheat spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, save 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water helps create a silky sauce.
Drain Spaghetti: Carefully drain the spaghetti and set it aside to keep warm while you make the sauce.
Caramelize Cabbage: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced cabbage, garlic, and salt, stirring occasionally. Cook until the cabbage is tender and deeply golden, about 10 minutes.
Add Seasonings: Toss in the remaining tablespoon of butter, fresh thyme, and black pepper. Sauté for about 30 seconds to release the aromas.
Deglaze with Vinegar: Pour in the sherry vinegar, stirring until most of the liquid evaporates, about 30 seconds, adding brightness to the dish.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti back to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Stir gently until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta beautifully, about 1 minute.
Serve: Divide the creamy pasta among bowls. Top each serving with the remaining Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a fresh, herbal finish.

Notes

Using whole wheat spaghetti adds fiber and a hearty texture, but gluten-free pasta can be substituted for dietary needs.
Reserve pasta water is key to achieving a silky, cohesive sauce.
Vegetarian Parmesan ensures no animal rennet, making the dish suitable for strict vegetarians.
Adjust the amount of butter and cream to make the dish richer or lighter as preferred.
Sherry vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if unavailable.
For additional protein, consider adding toasted pine nuts or cooked chickpeas.