Instant Pot Buttered Cabbage is a simple, homey side dish that delivers comforting, retro flavor. This Southern-inspired recipe from my youth is quick to prepare in a pressure cooker and makes a terrific vegetable accompaniment to many meals.
Instant Pot Buttered Cabbage
Something so straightforward can taste surprisingly rich and satisfying. If you enjoy cabbage, and even if you’re on the fence, this buttery, gently seasoned dish is worth a try. It’s an Instant Pot “dump and start” recipe—fast, easy, and reliably delicious.
This recipe is perfect when you need a quick vegetable side. Preparation is minimal and the Instant Pot does the rest, producing tender, flavorful cabbage in minutes.
Other ways to enjoy cabbage
If you’d like more variety, consider these variations: German red cabbage for a tangy, sweet-and-sour profile; a cabbage side dish with onions and carrots for more texture; or braised cabbage with apples and bacon for a savory-sweet option.
Which cabbage is best for this recipe?
- Green (or white) cabbage is ideal—its leaves are dense and compact, which yields great texture.
- Green cabbage has a slightly sweet and peppery flavor that becomes sweeter when cooked.
- Its firmness holds up well during pressure cooking, giving tender yet satisfying pieces.
Why use unsalted butter?
Using unsalted butter gives you better control over the final seasoning. Salted butter varies in saltiness between brands, which can make it harder to dial in the right taste. Starting with unsalted butter lets you add only the amount of salt you prefer. It’s also helpful for those managing sodium intake or who prefer to finish with specialty salts.
Serve this buttered cabbage at your next meal and expect compliments—its comforting simplicity is part of its charm.
Instant Pot Buttered Cabbage
Sandy Clifton
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup Low Sodium Chicken Broth (use 1/2 cup for a small head of cabbage)
- 6 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1 head Green Cabbage chopped into 1–2″ pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Add the chicken broth and unsalted butter to the Instant Pot.
- Add the chopped cabbage, spreading it evenly.
- Close the lid and set the steam release to Sealing.
- Select Pressure Cook/Manual on High for 5 minutes. The pot will take a few minutes to reach pressure.
- When the cook cycle ends, turn off the pot and let it sit undisturbed for 3 minutes (natural release). Then move the steam release to Venting to release remaining pressure.
- When the lid can be opened and the pin has dropped, open the lid. Add salt and pepper, stir gently, and serve.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation and should be used as a guide only.
Additional Info
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Resources to make Instant Pot Buttered Cabbage and more
This recipe is meant to be simple and approachable—perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Enjoy experimenting with additions like cooked bacon, diced carrots, or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
