If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that brings together the creamy, cheesy goodness with the humble crunch of cabbage, you’re in for a treat. This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe is that perfect blend of simple ingredients transformed into a rich, flavorful casserole that’s bound to become a family favorite. Each bite offers a delightful mix of buttery softness and sharp cheddar that enhances the naturally mild cabbage, making it a satisfying side or even a main event on your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward, kitchen-friendly ingredients is the first step toward creating a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role—from the sweetness of Vidalia onions to the creamy richness of sour cream and melted butter—ensuring your casserole is both comforting and well-balanced.
- Green cabbage, chopped: The star vegetable providing a tender crunch and fresh flavor.
- Vidalia onion, chopped: Adds a gentle sweetness that complements the cabbage beautifully.
- Butter (8 tbsp plus 3 tbsp for topping): Infuses the dish with richness and helps soften the vegetables.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Cream of chicken or mushroom soup (10 oz can): Brings creamy moisture and a savory depth to the casserole.
- Mayonnaise (â…“ cup): Adds a smooth texture and slight tang, binding the ingredients together.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Provides that irresistible cheesy crust that makes this dish unforgettable.
How to Make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Before you dive in, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and develops a lovely crust on the edges.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pan, melt 8 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped cabbage and Vidalia onion. Stir and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until the cabbage softens and the onions become tender, releasing their sweetness. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper while cooking to build flavor.
Step 3: Transfer and Mix the Creamy Layer
Once sautéed, spread the cabbage and onion mix evenly in your prepared baking dish. In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken (or mushroom) soup with the mayonnaise until smooth. This creamy blend will form a luscious layer, binding the vegetables together with a savory richness.
Step 4: Add the Topping
In a small bowl, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and mix it with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this evenly on top of your casserole. This butter-cheese combo will create a golden, bubbly, cheesy crust that elevates the dish to absolute comfort food status.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbly and beautifully golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to set and make each scoop delightful.
How to Serve Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten each serving, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives works wonders, adding a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous freshness that complements the casserole’s richness seamlessly.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs brilliantly with roasted chicken, grilled pork, or even a fresh green salad to balance out the creamy texture. Its versatility means it can support many meals, enhancing your dinner without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the casserole in small individual ramekins for elegant portions or layer it with crispy bacon bits on top for extra indulgence. You can even add a drizzle of hot sauce to bring a little zing to the cheesy, comforting flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Cheesy Cabbage Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a delicious next-day meal or an easy side to accompany your weeknight dinners.
Freezing
If you want to stock up, this casserole freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. If microwaving, cover the casserole to keep moisture in and heat in short intervals to prevent the cheese from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cabbage for this casserole?
Absolutely! While green cabbage works wonderfully here, you can try savoy or even Napa cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor that will still taste amazing.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes. Simply use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken to keep it vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing that creamy texture.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Diced carrots, celery, or even some bell peppers can add extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the cabbage and onions before baking.
What is the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar is ideal because it melts beautifully and adds a nice tang, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend for different flavors.
How can I make the casserole crispier on top?
For extra crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter over the cheese topping before baking. This creates a golden, crispy crust that’s irresistible.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe is that cozy, soul-satisfying dish you didn’t know you needed. It’s simple, flavorful, and endlessly comforting—a perfect way to bring warmth and joy to any meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved staple in your kitchen!
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Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and cheesy cabbage casserole that features sautéed green cabbage and Vidalia onions baked with a creamy blend of soup and mayonnaise, topped with melted butter and sharp cheddar cheese for a golden, bubbly finish. Perfect as a hearty side or light main dish, this recipe combines simple ingredients for a flavorful and satisfying casserole.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 small green cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium Vidalia onion, chopped
- 8 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken or mushroom soup
- â…“ cup mayonnaise
Topping
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish to prevent sticking and allow even baking.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pan, melt 8 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage and Vidalia onion to the pan.
- Cook Until Softened: Sauté the cabbage and onion mixture for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the cabbage is tender. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Transfer the cooked cabbage and onion mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out for uniform baking.
- Mix Creamy Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the can of cream of chicken or mushroom soup with â…“ cup of mayonnaise. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cabbage layer in the baking dish.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of melted butter with 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create a rich, flavorful crust.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown, indicating the cheese has melted and lightly crisped.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let it set for easier portioning and improved flavor melding.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian-friendly option if desired.
- Using Vidalia onions adds a natural sweetness to the casserole, but yellow onions work as a substitute.
- For a richer flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese but mild or medium cheddar can be used depending on preference.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; increase baking time slightly if baking from cold.
