Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is comfort food at its finest: creamy, bubbly, ultra-cheesy, and brimming with tender cabbage, it’s a dish that makes even the most ardent veggie skeptics reconsider. The cabbage melts into the sauce, while crispy crumbs on top provide a delightful crunch. Whether you’re looking for an exciting side for a family dinner, a cozy potluck addition, or a new way to love your veggies, this casserole brings warmth and flavor to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Even better than its luscious results is just how simple the ingredient list is! Each component is carefully chosen to create layers of flavor, from the soft sweetness of cabbage, to the sharp bite of cheddar, and a hint of savory crunch on top. Gather these staples together and watch a magical transformation happen in your oven.
- Green cabbage: The main event, its mild flavor and texture mellow perfectly once cooked.
- Olive oil: Adds subtle richness and helps sauté the cabbage to tender perfection.
- Onion: Brings sweetness and depth as it softens and mingles with the cabbage.
- Garlic: Just a couple of cloves wake up the flavors and make this casserole sing.
- Salt and black pepper: The basics, but essential for bringing all the elements into harmony.
- Paprika: A gentle warmth and color that makes every spoonful more inviting.
- Sour cream: Contributes to that incredibly creamy texture and mild tang.
- Mayonnaise: Adds richness and ensures the casserole is oh-so-silky.
- Cheddar cheese: The star cheese with bold flavor and melty goodness—shred it fresh for best results.
- Parmesan cheese: Offers a savory “pop” to the topping that contrasts beautifully with the other cheeses.
- Crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs: The finishing touch for golden, irresistible crunch.
How to Make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give a 9×13-inch baking dish a quick swipe with olive oil or cooking spray. This step not only prevents sticking but also helps your Cheesy Cabbage Casserole come out easily and in beautiful, tidy slices.
Step 2: Sauté the Cabbage, Onion, and Garlic
Time for a little stovetop magic: heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 8–10 minutes. Stir it occasionally—you want the cabbage to soften and start to wilt. Next, add your onion and garlic. Give everything a good stir, and continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes. Once fragrant and tender, season with salt, pepper, and paprika for that subtle warmth.
Step 3: Mix Up the Creamy Cheese Base
While your cabbage mixture is off the heat, grab a big bowl and combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese. This blend creates the signature creaminess of our Cheesy Cabbage Casserole. Pour in the warm cabbage mixture, and stir until every shreds and bit is coated and dreamy.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
Transfer all that goodness into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese across the top, then shower over the Parmesan. Finish by scattering the crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs—this step gives every bite an irresistible crispy finish and a golden color.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Place the dish in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden, bubbly surface and a heavenly aroma. After baking, let it rest for 5 minutes before diving in. This bit of patience helps everything set up beautifully, giving you perfect slices of Cheesy Cabbage Casserole.
How to Serve Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
Garnishes
A little flourish never hurts! Try a sprinkle of fresh chives, parsley, or even a dash more paprika right before serving. These garnishes add vibrant color and a whisper of fresh flavor that pops against the creamy, cheesy interior.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a natural pairing with so many mains. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled sausages, or even as a standout with a simple green salad. For potlucks or holidays, let it shine next to ham, turkey, or other classic comfort foods—it’s flexible enough to steal the show or play a supporting role.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the family-style dish! Try baking Cheesy Cabbage Casserole in individual ramekins for charming, personal-sized portions. Leftovers also make fabulous filling for wraps, or as a base for a veggie-packed breakfast topped with a fried egg. This dish loves a little reinvention.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftovers cool completely, then cover them tightly or transfer to an airtight container. Cheesy Cabbage Casserole will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld as it rests, making each serving just as delicious—if not more so—than the last.
Freezing
This casserole is perfectly freezer-friendly! Simply allow it to cool, then wrap portions or the entire pan securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and taste.
Reheating
To reheat, cover and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. You can also reheat single servings in the microwave. If you want to refresh the topping’s crunch, pop the casserole uncovered under your broiler for just a minute or two at the end.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While classic green cabbage is traditional, you can swap in Savoy or Napa cabbage for an even more delicate texture. Just note that red cabbage will tint the casserole a lovely purple, adding visual flair.
Is there a way to make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole lighter?
Definitely. Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and use light mayonnaise if you prefer. Reduced-fat cheeses and whole wheat breadcrumbs can also lighten up the dish without sacrificing too much flavor or texture.
What can I do if I don’t have butter crackers?
Breadcrumbs, especially panko for extra crunch, work beautifully. You can also pulse up stale bread or toss in some crushed cornflakes for a playful, crispy topping.
Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
Yes! Stir in cooked bacon, diced ham, or even shredded rotisserie chicken before baking. These hearty additions turn Cheesy Cabbage Casserole from side dish to satisfying meal.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?
Be sure to sauté the cabbage thoroughly until it’s softened and some of its moisture has evaporated. Letting the casserole rest after baking also helps the ingredients set, keeping your Cheesy Cabbage Casserole delightfully creamy rather than watery.
Final Thoughts
I can’t say enough good things about this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole—it’s cozy, crave-worthy, and endlessly adaptable. Next time you’re craving something cheesy and satisfying, I hope you’ll give it a try and let it become a staple at your table too!
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Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole. A creamy and savory dish that combines tender cabbage with a rich cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Cheese Mixture:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Cabbage: In a skillet, sauté cabbage in olive oil until softened. Add onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and 1 1/2 cups cheddar. Mix in the cabbage.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer mixture to baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar, Parmesan, and crackers.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it rest before serving.
Notes
- Try Greek yogurt or different cheeses for variety.
- Enhance with cooked bacon or ham for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
