My aunt used to make this when the pantry looked empty. It sounds incredibly plain but the magic happens in the pan. The smell alone makes people wand
To add protein, toss in sliced cooked sausage, leftover rotisserie chicken, or crisp bacon bits right before serving. For more flavor without adding many ingredients, try a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder while the cabbage cooks, or finish the dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese over the top.
If you need to keep it lighter, you can use half butter and half olive oil. Leftovers reheat well in a skillet with a tiny bit of butter or water—press it down in the pan and let the bottom get a little crispy for a fun, toasty twist.