German Cabbage and Dumplings Recipe

I’ve always loved hearty, soul-warming meals, and nothing hits the spot like my homemade German Cabbage and Dumplings Recipe. After trying this recipe myself, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to create such a cozy, comforting dish.

The tender cabbage paired with soft, chewy dumplings makes every bite feel like a hug from the inside. I can honestly say, making this dish brought a little piece of old-world charm right into my kitchen.

Let me walk you through how I make it, step by step. If you enjoy trying different comfort foods, you might also like this Chicken Waffle Sliders Recipe for a fun twist.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this classic German comfort food. I’ve included a few pro tips to help your dish shine.

For the Dumplings:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour – I always sift it first for lighter, fluffier dumplings.
• 1 tsp dried thyme or parsley – adds a subtle herbal flavor.
• 3/4 tsp black pepper – freshly cracked works best.
• 1/2 tsp salt – balances the flavors perfectly.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder (optional) – helps the dumplings rise slightly.
• 1/4 tsp baking soda (optional) – gives extra lightness if desired.
• 2 large eggs, beaten – room temperature eggs mix better.
• 1–3 Tbsp milk – just enough to form a stiff but pliable dough.

For the Cabbage:

• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided – gives richness without overpowering.
• 1 large onion, chopped – caramelizes beautifully to sweeten the broth.
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped – use fresh, not frozen, for the best texture.
• 1/4 cup vegetable or chicken stock – adds depth to the flavor.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder – enhances savory notes without overwhelming.
• 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley – for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Note: Several servings

Variations

I like to mix things up depending on my mood or dietary needs:

• Dairy-Free: Swap butter with olive oil or vegan margarine.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings.
• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or caraway seeds to the cabbage.
• Protein Boost: Stir in some cooked sausage or shredded chicken for a heartier meal. You can also enjoy similar sweet comfort foods like Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe for breakfast.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick overview of how long this recipe will take:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Equipment You Need

I keep my cooking simple with just a few essential tools:

• Large pot – for boiling dumplings.
• Skillet or sauté pan – to cook the cabbage and onions.
• Mixing bowl – for combining dumpling ingredients.
• Slotted spoon – to remove cooked dumplings from water.
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping cabbage and onion.

How to Make German Cabbage and Dumplings Recipe

Preparing the Dumplings

I start by combining the flour, thyme, pepper, salt, and optional baking powder or soda in a bowl. I create a small well in the center, then add the beaten eggs. Stir everything together into a stiff dough, adding a little milk if it seems too dry.

Cooking the Dumplings

I bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Using a spoon dipped in hot water, I scoop tablespoon-sized dumplings and drop them into the water. Once they float to the surface, I know they’re perfectly cooked, then I remove them with a slotted spoon.

Cooking the Cabbage

In a skillet, I melt 2 Tbsp of butter over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until it’s soft and golden. I add the remaining butter, cabbage, stock, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Covering the pan, I let the cabbage simmer until it’s tender and flavorful.

Combining Dumplings and Cabbage

I gently fold the cooked dumplings into the cabbage mixture, letting them soak up the savory flavors. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and freshness. It’s ready to serve immediately!

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Based on my own kitchen experiments, here’s how I make this recipe extra special:

• I always caramelize the onions slowly; it brings out a natural sweetness that balances the cabbage.
• I let the dumplings rest a few minutes after boiling; they hold together better when mixed with cabbage.
• If I want a richer flavor, I sometimes add a splash of cream or a little mustard to the cabbage broth.
• I taste and adjust seasoning at the end; it’s amazing how a touch more salt or pepper can elevate the dish.

How to Serve German Cabbage and Dumplings Recipe

This dish shines best when served warm and hearty. I love presenting it in a deep bowl with extra parsley sprinkled on top. You can add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess or pair it with a crusty slice of bread. For a festive touch, a few roasted carrot slices on the side brighten up the plate.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a snapshot of what you’re getting per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 250–300 kcal
• Protein: 8–10 g
• Carbohydrates: 35–40 g
• Fat: 10–12 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: I store leftover cabbage and dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: I usually freeze dumplings and cabbage separately in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. A splash of stock or water keeps the dumplings from drying out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why I think this dish is worth adding to your rotation:

• Comforting & Hearty: Every bite feels cozy, perfect for cold evenings.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything in your kitchen.
• Versatile: Easy to adjust for dietary preferences or add-ins.
• Rich Flavor: The caramelized onions and cabbage broth make it deeply satisfying.
• Nostalgic & Authentic: Brings a touch of traditional German cooking into your home.