How do I fix empty System Settings categories on macOS Golden Gate?

Since Safe Mode has already failed to resolve this, the core system preference database, cache, or launch services database has likely become corrupted. Because you cannot use the graphical user interface (GUI) to troubleshoot, you will need to rely on the Terminal app to bypass the broken interface and force a rebuild or create a workaround user account.

Follow these troubleshooting steps in order.

Step 1: Force Rebuild the Launch Services Database

A breakdown in communication between the System Settings app and the OS background components can cause entirely blank panes.

• Open the Terminal app (find in Spotlight or Applications > Utilities).
• Copy and paste the following command exactly as shown, then press return:

/System/Library/Frameworks/CoreServices.framework/Frameworks/LaunchServices.framework/Support/lsregister -kill -seed -r -all local,system,user

• Restart your Mac immediately and check if System Settings works normally.

Step 2: Clear System Settings Cache Files

If the registry rebuild doesn't work, clear the broken cache folders related to the settings application:

• Open Terminal again.
• Run the following command to delete cached configuration data (you may be prompted to type your Mac's login password; nothing will show on screen while typing, which is normal):

sudo rm -rf ~/Library/Caches/com.apple.systempreferences*

• Once completed, restart the system again.

Step 3: Create a New Admin User via Terminal

Since you cannot access the "Users & Groups" UI pane, you can use the command-line utility sysadminctlto force-create a brand-new administrator account. Testing a clean profile will confirm if the issue is restricted to your specific user profile or if it is a system-wide bug.

• Open Terminal.
• Type the following command (replace testadmin and TemporaryPass123! with a username and password of your choice), then press return:

sudo sysadminctl -addUser testadmin -fullName "Test Admin" -password "TemporaryPass123!" -admin

• Use code with caution.
• Type your current Mac password to authorize the creation (nothing will show on the screen as you type).
• Log out of your current account and log into the new Test Admin account.
• If System Settings loads normally on the new profile, your original account's user library folder is corrupted. You can transfer your data over to the new account.

Step 4: Reinstall macOS via Recovery Mode

If both the terminal database reset fails and the newly created admin user encounters the exact same blank screen, your core system files have been damaged. You will need to refresh the OS: 

• Shut down your Mac mini completely.
• Press and hold the power button down. Keep holding it past the startup sound until you see Loading Startup Options on the screen.
• Click the Options gear icon, then select Continue.
• From the macOS Recovery window, choose Reinstall macOS.

Note: Reinstalling the operating system this way refreshes systemic components without erasing your personal files, but it is always recommended to have a backup if possible

More info from Apple: How to reinstall macOS - Apple Support

Thanks! The specific account was problematic - since the Test Admin and a full macOS Reinstall did not help. Finally found a workaround by reinitializing the account parameters. Thanks again!