Creamy Tomato Cabbage is a comforting, old-fashioned side dish that combines tender cabbage with a rich, savory tomato cream sauce. This simple skillet recipe transforms humble cabbage into a flavorful, satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, sausages, or hearty weeknight dinners. It’s budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and packed with cozy, homestyle flavor.
Popular in traditional kitchens for generations, creamy tomato cabbage is the perfect balance of tangy tomatoes and smooth cream, making it a reliable go-to when you want something warm, filling, and deeply comforting.
Ingredients
1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions
Prepare the cabbage
Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Rinse and drain well.
Sauté aromatics
Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add cabbage and tomatoes
Stir in the cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, paprika, and sugar if using.
Simmer gently
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well combined.
Finish with cream
Stir in the cream and cook uncovered for 3–5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the cabbage.
Serve warm
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve creamy tomato cabbage as a side dish with pork chops, sausages, meatloaf, or roasted chicken. It also works well as a light main served with crusty bread.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring to maintain creaminess.
Variations to Try
Add cooked bacon or smoked sausage for a heartier dish.
Use sour cream instead of heavy cream for a tangier finish.
Add chili flakes for gentle heat.
Stir in fresh dill or parsley before serving for freshness.
Why This Recipe Works
Slow simmering softens the cabbage and allows it to absorb the tomato flavor, while the cream balances acidity and creates a rich, velvety sauce. Simple seasoning lets the natural sweetness of cabbage shine through.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Tomato Cabbage is proof that simple ingredients can create deeply satisfying comfort food. Warm, rich, and easy to make, this classic dish is a perfect addition to any homestyle meal and a reliable favorite for busy weeknights.