Creamy Cabbage Ham Skillet (Print)

Tender cabbage and ham cooked in a creamy sauce for a quick, flavorful low-carb dinner.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
02 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Meats

04 - 2 cups cooked ham, diced

→ Dairy

05 - 3/4 cup heavy cream
06 - 2 oz cream cheese, softened
07 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

→ Pantry

08 - 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
09 - Salt and black pepper to taste
10 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

→ Fresh Herbs

11 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add the sliced cabbage and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to wilt and soften.
04 - Stir in the diced ham and cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
05 - Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir gently until the cream cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy.
06 - Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep.
  • One-pan meal: Less cleanup, more enjoyment.
  • Low-carb and gluten-free: A smart choice for mindful eating without sacrificing flavor.
  • Rich and creamy: Heavy cream, cream cheese, and cheddar create a deeply satisfying sauce.
  • Versatile: Easy to adapt with different cheeses or seasonings to suit your taste.
02 -
  • Slice the cabbage thin: Thinner slices wilt faster and more evenly, giving you the best texture in the final dish.
  • Soften the cream cheese first: Room-temperature cream cheese melts smoothly into the sauce without lumps.
  • Low and slow for the sauce: Always reduce the heat before adding the dairy to prevent curdling.
  • Season in layers: Add a little salt and pepper at each stage—cabbage, ham, and sauce—for a more balanced, developed flavor.
  • Check your labels: If gluten sensitivity is a concern, verify that your ham and shredded cheese are certified gluten-free.
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