Cheesy Cabbage Casserole

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Cabbage is often overlooked when it comes to comfort food, but let me tell you—this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is about to change that. I discovered this dish on a chilly afternoon when I needed something warm, hearty, and satisfying without being too fussy. It came together almost by accident, with ingredients I already had on hand, and the first bite was all it took to make it a staple.

I love how the cabbage softens while baking, becoming tender and flavorful, soaking up the creamy sauce and melted cheese. The top turns golden and crisp, with that irresistible pull-apart cheese layer that makes you want to dig in before it even cools. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a dish that reheats beautifully, this casserole hits the mark every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole

This dish is a true comfort classic with a few standout perks:

• Budget-friendly and made with everyday ingredients.
• Low-carb and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets.
• Super creamy, cheesy, and satisfying without being heavy.
• A perfect way to get picky eaters to enjoy cabbage.
• Great as a main or side dish for both weeknights and potlucks.

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What Kind of Cabbage Should I Use?

For this casserole, I usually go with green cabbage. It’s widely available, affordable, and softens nicely in the oven while holding just enough texture to keep the dish from becoming mushy. Savoy cabbage is another excellent choice—it has a slightly sweeter flavor and delicate leaves that layer beautifully. While red cabbage can technically be used, it changes color during baking and might look a bit off-putting, though it still tastes fine.

If you’re lucky enough to find pointed (hispi) cabbage, that’s a fantastic option too—it has a naturally buttery taste that pairs well with the cheese sauce.

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Options for Substitutions

You can absolutely play around with this recipe depending on what you have or your dietary needs. Here are a few easy swaps:

• Cheese: Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella for a stretchier pull, or Gruyère for a nutty twist. A combo of cheeses works wonders.
• Cream: No heavy cream? Use sour cream, cream cheese thinned with milk, or even evaporated milk for a lighter base.
• Add-ins: Cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions can be stirred in for extra depth.
• Meat version: Add some cooked ground beef or sausage to make it a hearty main dish.
• Dairy-free: Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy note if you’re going vegan.

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Ingredients for This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a key role in building that comforting, creamy, cheesy goodness:

• Green Cabbage – The star of the dish. It softens while baking, absorbs the sauce, and adds bulk and natural sweetness.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps sauté the cabbage to enhance its flavor before baking.
• Onion – A flavor base that adds subtle sweetness and depth to the casserole.
• Garlic – Just a clove or two infuses the dish with savory warmth.
• Heavy Cream – Makes the sauce luscious and rich, coating every bite of cabbage.
• Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or Gruyère) – Melts into a golden, bubbling topping and adds sharpness and body to the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance.
• Nutmeg (optional) – A pinch adds warmth and enhances the creamy elements.
• Fresh Thyme or Parsley (optional) – A finishing touch for a bit of freshness and visual appeal.

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Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Start by removing the tough outer leaves of the cabbage. Cut it into quarters, then slice each quarter into thin strips. The finer the strips, the more tender the cabbage will be once baked. Rinse the cabbage thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.

Step 2: Sauté the Cabbage

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced cabbage and sauté it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should start to soften and wilt down. Add a pinch of salt and pepper during this step to help season it. Once it’s tender and slightly browned, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.

Step 4: Layer the Cabbage and Cheese

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, layer the sautéed cabbage. Pour the creamy sauce over the cabbage, then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top. If you want extra cheesy goodness, feel free to add more cheese between the layers.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. If you want an even crispier top, you can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes.

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How Long to Cook the Cheesy Cabbage Casserole

The total baking time for this casserole is around 30 minutes. You’ll start by covering the dish with foil and baking for 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become golden. For an extra crispy top, you can switch to the broiler setting for the last 1-2 minutes—just be sure to watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn!

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Tips for Perfect Cheesy Cabbage Casserole

1. Don’t Overcook the Cabbage Before Baking: You want the cabbage to soften in the skillet, but it should still have some structure. Overcooking it at this stage will make it too mushy by the time it bakes.
2. Use a Combination of Cheeses: For extra flavor, combine cheddar with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even Parmesan. Each cheese adds its own unique texture and taste.
3. Let It Rest: Once you pull the casserole out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and makes it easier to scoop out.
4. Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley on top just before serving. It adds color and a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
5. Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just add an extra few minutes to the cooking time if you’re baking from cold.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Overcrowding the Pan: If you try to sauté too much cabbage at once, it won’t cook evenly. Work in batches if necessary to ensure all the cabbage gets evenly softened and slightly browned.
2. Skipping the Foil: The foil helps trap moisture and prevents the casserole from drying out during the first phase of baking. Skipping this step can lead to a less creamy texture.
3. Not Allowing the Casserole to Rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately after it comes out of the oven can result in a runny mess. Let it rest for a few minutes so the sauce can set and the cheese can firm up.
4. Underseasoning: Cabbage on its own can be a bit bland, so make sure to season at every step. From the cabbage sauté to the sauce, don’t skip adding salt, pepper, and other seasonings.
5. Using Low-Quality Cheese: The cheese is a major player in this dish, so opt for a good-quality cheddar or a cheese that melts well. Cheap cheeses often don’t melt properly and can result in a greasy casserole.

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What to Serve With Cheesy Cabbage Casserole?

Here are some ideas to make this casserole a complete meal:

1. Roast Chicken

A simple roasted chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy cabbage casserole, adding protein and a nice balance of flavors.

2. Grilled Sausages

Serve alongside grilled sausages, which add a smoky, savory bite that complements the softness of the cabbage.

3. Fresh Salad

A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.

4. Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread is always a winner with casseroles. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce!

5. Mashed Potatoes

If you’re craving a little extra comfort, mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs well with the cheesy goodness.

6. Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus to add some color and a bit of crunch alongside your creamy casserole.

7. Pickled Vegetables

For a tangy contrast, serve pickled onions or pickles alongside the casserole for a refreshing bite.

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Storage Instructions

This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole stores beautifully and can be enjoyed for days after making it:

• In the Refrigerator: Let the casserole cool completely before storing it. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• To Reheat: Simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the casserole! After it’s baked and cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until hot all the way through.

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Estimated Nutrition

While this casserole is a comforting dish, it’s also quite satisfying in terms of nutrition. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 320-350 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 500mg

These values can vary depending on the type of cheese and cream you use, but overall, it’s a hearty yet moderate option for a meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cabbage for this casserole?

Yes! While green cabbage is the most common, you can try Savoy cabbage or even pointed (hispi) cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor. Red cabbage can be used, but keep in mind it will turn a purple color after baking.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the day before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for it being cold from the fridge.

3. How can I make this casserole dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter, cream, and cheese alternatives. You can also try adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

4. Can I add meat to this casserole?

Yes, you can definitely add cooked ground beef, sausage, or bacon to make it a more substantial meal. Simply stir the meat into the cabbage before layering it with the creamy sauce and cheese.

5. Can I use frozen cabbage instead of fresh?

Fresh cabbage is best for this recipe since it holds its texture better when baked. If you use frozen cabbage, it might release more water and become a bit mushy. If you do use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

6. What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or a combination of your favorite cheeses. A sharper cheese will provide more flavor, while mozzarella will give you that gooey, stretchy texture.

7. Can I make this casserole spicy?

If you love heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or mix in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce. It’s a great way to balance the richness of the cheese and cream.

8. Is this casserole suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes! This casserole is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. Just be cautious of any add-ins (like bread or potatoes) that might increase the carb content.

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Conclusion

The Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and comforting. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or making it the star of your dinner table, this casserole is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have in your fridge.

Give it a try, and enjoy every cheesy, cabbage-filled bite!

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