Cabbage Pie – Savory Comfort in Every Slice

If you’re looking for a dish that’s cozy, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious, look no further than Cabbage Pie. This savory pie combines tender, flavorful cabbage with onions, herbs, and optionally cheese, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. It’s the perfect comfort food, whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course. Cabbage pie elevates humble ingredients into a dish that’s elegant enough for guests but simple enough for weeknight dinners. With its golden crust and hearty filling, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
What Is Cabbage Pie?
Cabbage pie is a savory pastry made with a cabbage-based filling baked in a pie crust. Unlike cabbage rolls, the filling is cooked and then baked, making it quicker and easier to prepare. The filling can be vegetarian or include cheese, making it versatile for many dietary preferences. The beauty of cabbage pie lies in its simplicity: soft, slightly sweet cabbage, aromatic onions, and herbs baked in a crisp crust create layers of flavor and texture that satisfy every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients
- Vegetarian-friendly, but cheese can be added for richness
- Flaky, buttery crust with tender, savory filling
- Can be served warm or at room temperature
- Perfect for parties, potlucks, or casual dinners
- Easy to prepare and make ahead
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold butter, cubed
- 4–6 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling
- 1 medium head green cabbage, shredded
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or dill
- Optional: ½ cup grated cheese (cheddar, feta, or mozzarella)
- Optional: 1 egg for brushing
How to Make Cabbage Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Mix flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter. Sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add shredded cabbage, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook 8–10 minutes until cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. Stir in cheese if using.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out dough and line a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with cabbage mixture. Cover with a top crust or leave open for a rustic look. Brush top with beaten egg if desired.
Step 4: Bake
Bake 35–40 minutes until crust is golden and crisp. Let cool 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Flavor and Texture
Cabbage pie has a crispy, buttery crust and soft, flavorful filling. The cabbage is tender with a slight sweetness, complemented by aromatic onions and herbs. Cheese adds richness, while the crust provides a satisfying crunch. Each bite offers a perfect balance of texture and savory flavor.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Pie
- Slice cabbage thinly for even cooking
- Cool the filling before assembling to avoid a soggy crust
- Use cold butter for a flaky crust
- Optional: pre-bake bottom crust for extra crispness
- Experiment with herbs and spices to personalize flavor
Variations
Cheese & Herb
Add feta, cheddar, or mozzarella with fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Spicy Cabbage Pie
Include red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers.
Vegan Option
Use olive oil in the crust, skip cheese, and brush with plant-based milk.
Mini Cabbage Pies
Use muffin tins for bite-sized appetizers.
Mediterranean Twist
Add olives, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing: Assemble unbaked pie, wrap tightly, freeze up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
When to Serve Cabbage Pie
- Appetizer for parties and gatherings
- Light lunch or brunch option
- Side dish with dinner
- Snack or tea-time treat
- Holiday or festive occasions
What to Serve with Cabbage Pie
- Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Tomato soup or creamy soup
- Pickles or sauerkraut for tang
- Roasted vegetables or meats
- Garnish with fresh herbs
Conclusion
Cabbage Pie is a savory, comforting dish that turns humble cabbage into an elegant, flavorful pie. Crispy crust, tender filling, and aromatic herbs make it perfect for appetizers, sides, or a cozy meal. Easy to prepare, customizable, and loved by everyone, cabbage pie is a must-try for your recipe collection. 🥬🥧✨
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
What is cabbage pie?
Cabbage pie is a savory pastry with a filling made of cooked cabbage, onions, herbs, and optionally cheese, baked in a flaky crust.
Do I need to cook the cabbage before making the pie?
Yes, pre-cooking the cabbage softens it, develops flavor, and prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
Can I make cabbage pie vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, the filling is naturally vegetarian. For a vegan version, use olive oil instead of butter and skip cheese, brushing the crust with plant-based milk.
What cheese works best in cabbage pie?
Feta, cheddar, mozzarella, or goat cheese all work well, depending on your flavor preference.
Can I make mini cabbage pies?
Absolutely. Use muffin tins or small tart pans for individual, bite-sized portions.
How long will leftovers keep?
Refrigerated cabbage pie lasts up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I freeze cabbage pie?
Yes, assemble unbaked pie, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Yes, carrots, leeks, spinach, or bell peppers are great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
How do I make the crust flaky?
Use cold butter, handle the dough minimally, and chill it before rolling. Pre-baking the bottom crust slightly can also help.
Is cabbage pie healthy?
Yes, it’s high in fiber and vitamins from cabbage. Using moderate butter and cheese keeps it balanced and nutritious.
Can I make the pie spicy?
Yes, add chili flakes, chopped chili peppers, or paprika to the filling for extra heat.
Can I prepare cabbage pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the filling and dough ahead, refrigerate separately, and assemble just before baking.
