Creamy Cabbage Ham Skillet (Printable)

Tender cabbage and ham cooked in a rich creamy cheddar sauce for an easy low-carb dinner.

# What You’ll Need:

→ 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 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
09 - Salt and black pepper to taste
10 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

→ Fresh Herbs

11 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# How To Make It:

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

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • One-pan simplicity means easy cleanup
  • Low-carb and gluten-free friendly
  • Uses affordable, everyday ingredients
  • Rich and creamy without being overly heavy
  • Perfect way to use up leftover ham
02 -
  • Use a large skillet to give the cabbage room to cook evenly without steaming
  • Don't rush the cabbage—let it soften and develop a bit of color for deeper flavor
  • Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking
  • Taste and adjust seasoning at the end; ham can be salty, so you may need less salt
  • Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
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