Cabbage Carbonara is the ultimate low carb comfort food that feels indulgent but stays surprisingly light. Instead of pasta, this Cabbage Carbonara uses roasted cabbage sliced into noodle-like ribbons that soak up a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Crispy bacon, sweet onions, fresh garlic, and cracked black pepper bring classic carbonara flavor without the heaviness of traditional pasta. If you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner that’s simple, affordable, and packed with flavor, this creamy cabbage carbonara delivers big comfort in every bite.
Why You’ll Love Cabbage Carbonara
A Pasta-Free Comfort Classic
Carbonara usually relies on pasta, eggs, and cheese. But when I started experimenting with cabbage as a pasta substitute, I discovered something surprising. Roasted cabbage turns tender, slightly sweet, and chewy — almost like wide noodles.
This Cabbage Carbonara keeps:
- Creamy sauce
- Crispy bacon
- Nutty Parmesan
- Fresh cracked pepper
But replaces the pasta with a vegetable twist.
Why This Recipe Works
- Low carb alternative
- Budget friendly
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Naturally gluten free
- Perfect weeknight comfort meal
The cabbage holds the sauce beautifully without getting soggy when roasted properly.
Ingredients for Cabbage Carbonara
- 1 medium head cabbage (5–6 cups sliced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Salt to taste
Why These Ingredients Matter
Cabbage becomes tender and slightly caramelized when roasted.
Bacon provides savory depth and crispy texture.
Heavy cream creates a silky sauce.
Fresh Parmesan thickens and adds nutty saltiness.
Black pepper gives classic carbonara warmth.
How to Make Cabbage Carbonara
Step 1: Roast the Cabbage
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Slice cabbage into thin strips.
Toss with olive oil and salt.
Spread in single layer on baking sheet.
Roast 10–15 minutes until slightly browned.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon & Aromatics
Heat large skillet over medium.
Cook bacon 2–3 minutes until crisp.
Add onion and cook 2–3 minutes.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in heavy cream.
Add Parmesan and black pepper.
Simmer 2–3 minutes until thickened.
Step 4: Combine
Add roasted cabbage to skillet.
Toss until evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve hot.
Serving, Variations & Storage
How to Serve
- With extra Parmesan on top
- Add red pepper flakes for heat
- Serve with grilled chicken
- Pair with simple green salad
Variations
- Swap bacon for pancetta
- Add mushrooms for earthiness
- Use half-and-half for lighter sauce
- Add egg yolk for richer carbonara feel
Storage
Store leftovers in airtight container up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in skillet with splash of cream.
FAQS frequently asked
Is cabbage a good pasta substitute?
Yes. Roasted cabbage holds texture and absorbs sauce well, making it a great low carb alternative.
Can I make cabbage carbonara dairy-free?
You can substitute coconut cream and nutritional yeast, though flavor will change.
How do I prevent soggy cabbage?
Roast it in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Is cabbage carbonara keto-friendly?
Yes. It’s naturally low carb and high fat, making it suitable for keto diets.
NUTRITION (Per Serving)
Calories: 253 kcal
Carbs: 10g
Net Carbs: 7g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 21g
Fiber: 3g
Cabbage Carbonara (Creamy Low Carb Comfort Dinner)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking & Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cabbage Carbonara is a creamy low carb twist on classic pasta carbonara made with roasted cabbage, bacon and Parmesan.
Ingredients
1 medium head cabbage
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 slices bacon
1 small onion
2 garlic cloves
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Slice cabbage and roast 10-15 minutes.
3. Cook bacon until crisp.
4. Add onion and garlic.
5. Stir in cream and Parmesan.
6. Simmer until thick.
7. Add cabbage and toss.