If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful, and downright irresistible dish to add to your dinner rotation, this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Packed with tender, slightly sweet cabbage enveloped in a luscious, creamy cheese sauce, and topped with a perfectly golden, crunchy breadcrumb crust, every bite offers a delightful blend of textures and savory goodness. It’s not only simple to prepare but also hearty enough to satisfy a hungry crowd, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or potlucks. Trust me, once you make this casserole, it’ll quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together to create this comforting and cheesy delight. Each component plays an important role, from the freshness of the cabbage to the rich creaminess of the cheese blend, delivering flavor, texture, and that eye-catching golden crust.
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded: Provides a tender, slightly crunchy base with subtle sweetness that holds up well to baking.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps soften the aromatics for a flavorful foundation.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Brings a mild sweetness that complements the cabbage perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Injects a fragrant punch to elevate the overall flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream: Creates a creamy, tangy backdrop that balances the cheese.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp or mild, this is the heart of the cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory depth and subtle nuttiness.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko): Delivers a satisfying crisp topping.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Offers a gentle kick to keep things interesting.
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional): Adds a touch of color and warmth.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or dried parsley (optional): Brings delicate herbal notes for extra flavor complexity.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Helps bind the casserole together for a perfect texture.
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for topping): Ensures the breadcrumb crust browns beautifully and crisps up just right.
How to Make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then blanch the shredded cabbage for about 3 to 4 minutes. This step softens the cabbage just enough without losing its structure or vibrant color. Once blanched, drain the cabbage thoroughly and set it aside to cool so it’s ready to be mixed with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
While the cabbage cools, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This combination infuses the casserole with layers of flavor that gently awaken your palate without overpowering the dish.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika and dried herbs. Give it a good stir to bring all those delicious flavors together. Finally, fold in the beaten eggs to create a creamy cheese sauce that will bind the casserole beautifully and provide a luscious, silky texture once baked.
Step 4: Combine the Cabbage and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the blanched cabbage with the sautéed onion and garlic until they are evenly distributed. Pour the cheese sauce over this mixture and stir carefully until every shred of cabbage is perfectly coated in that irresistible, cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish and transfer the cabbage mixture into it. Smooth the top for an even layer, then sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the surface. Drizzle the melted butter on top of the breadcrumbs to ensure a golden, crispy crust that will give the casserole a delightful contrast to the creamy inside.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese sauce is bubbling up around the edges and the breadcrumb topping has turned a perfect shade of golden brown. This time in the oven allows the flavors to meld while creating that wonderfully rich, comforting texture.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set slightly before serving. This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted meats, but it also stands proudly on its own as a vegetarian main or a hearty side dish. Every bite is a cozy embrace of cheesy, buttery, cabbage goodness.
How to Serve Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a pop of color and fresh flavor, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top right before serving. A light drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of extra sour cream can also add a fun twist that personalizes your casserole experience.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines alongside simple roasted chicken, pork chops, or even grilled sausages. For a vegetarian meal, try pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to balance out the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for elegant single servings at a dinner party. Or, layer it inside a deep-dish pie crust for a cheesy cabbage pot pie variation. Either way, the comforting flavors and textures will delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole holds its flavor wonderfully, and the textures stay satisfying even after reheating.
Freezing
This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Cool it completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or placing in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, making it perfect for easy meals on busy days.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to maintain that crispy topping. You can also microwave individual portions but the topping may lose some crunch.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan provide classic flavors, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Gruyère, or even a sharp Asiago for different taste profiles and textures.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegan?
You can absolutely adapt the recipe to be vegan by swapping the dairy with plant-based alternatives like vegan sour cream, cheese, and butter, and using a flax egg or commercial egg replacer instead of real eggs.
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage instead of shredding it myself?
Yes, pre-shredded cabbage works well and saves time. Just make sure to blot any excess moisture before blanching to avoid a watery casserole.
What if I skip blanching the cabbage?
Blanching softens the cabbage and reduces cooking time in the oven, helping maintain a tender texture. If skipped, the casserole may turn out crunchier and take longer to bake thoroughly.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe is a true comfort food gem that combines simplicity, warmth, and cheesy indulgence all in one dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this casserole will wrap you in a cozy hug of flavor every time. Give it a try and watch it become a staple you reach for again and again!
Print
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
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a comforting and flavorful baked dish featuring tender blanched cabbage combined with a creamy blend of sour cream, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Topped with buttery breadcrumbs for a crispy golden crust, it makes a perfect vegetarian main or side dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or dried parsley (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the shredded cabbage for 3-4 minutes until it softens slightly. Drain the cabbage well and set it aside to cool.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, paprika (if using), and dried thyme or parsley (if using). Mix thoroughly, then stir in the beaten eggs to create a creamy cheese sauce.
- Combine the Cabbage and Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the blanched cabbage with the sautéed onion and garlic. Pour the cheese sauce over this mixture and stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish. Transfer the cabbage mixture into the dish and smooth out the surface. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly on top, then drizzle the melted butter over the breadcrumbs to help create a golden, crispy crust when baked.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Bake until the casserole is bubbling and the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown and crispy.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to set. Serve warm as a satisfying vegetarian main dish or a hearty side alongside roasted meats.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping; regular breadcrumbs can also be used.
- You can substitute dried thyme with parsley or omit herbs if preferred.
- Sharp cheddar cheese will give a stronger cheese flavor, while mild cheddar makes it creamier and less intense.
- For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Ensure cabbage is well drained after blanching to avoid a watery casserole.
