Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s both creamy, cheesy, and packed with wholesome veggies? Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is about to become your new favorite from-scratch classic! This irresistible dish brings together tender cabbage, melty cheeses, and a buttery cracker topping for pure home-cooked joy in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, impressing at a potluck, or just craving something cozy, Cheesy Cabbage Casserole delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, yet each one plays a vital role in making Cheesy Cabbage Casserole taste so special. From the fresh cabbage that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender to the tang of sour cream and that glorious cheesy topping, every component brings either taste, texture, color, or pure craveability to the dish.
- Green cabbage: The hearty star of the show, it becomes perfectly tender and mild when baked.
- Olive oil: Adds subtle richness and helps sauté the vegetables to savory perfection.
- Onion: Brings sweetness and depth, enhancing every bite.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the casserole with irresistible aroma and flavor.
- Salt & black pepper: A simple duo for seasoning the cabbage just right.
- Paprika: Gives a gentle warmth and a pop of color to the mix.
- Sour cream: Provides creamy tang and moisture (Greek yogurt works if you want to lighten things up!).
- Mayonnaise: Blends in extra smoothness and richness throughout the casserole.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: This classic cheese melts beautifully, giving big cheesy flavor; divided for mixing and topping.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates deliciously gooey strands in every forkful.
- Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs: Adds a buttery, crunch-tastic finish on top.
- Melted butter: Combines with the cracker crust for golden, toasty deliciousness.
How to Make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for bubbling cheesy goodness. Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a light greasing with cooking spray or butter—this ensures your Cheesy Cabbage Casserole won’t stick and makes serving a breeze.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and let it warm up. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes, just until it turns soft and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic, letting it cook for a quick 30 seconds, then pile in all that chopped cabbage. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is wilted and turns lightly golden at the edges.
Step 3: Mix Together the Casserole Base
Scoop the sautéed cabbage mixture into a large mixing bowl, then fold in the sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar, and the mozzarella. Stir until everything is gently but thoroughly combined. This creamy mixture will turn utterly irresistible in the oven!
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer your cheesy cabbage mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. Now, in a separate small bowl, blend together the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter—this simple mix will create that must-have crispy top.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping and Cheese
Sprinkle your buttery crumbs evenly over the cabbage mixture, then finish with a generous scattering of the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese. This step guarantees your Cheesy Cabbage Casserole will bake up with an irresistible golden crust.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns perfectly golden and the edges start to bubble. Give it a few minutes to cool before serving—this makes it easier to slice and scoop, ensuring each serving is packed with creamy, cheesy layers.
How to Serve Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
Garnishes
If you want to dress up your Cheesy Cabbage Casserole, sprinkle on some fresh chopped parsley or chives right before serving. A dash of extra paprika or a swirl of sour cream on top can add both color and a hint of elegance.
Side Dishes
This casserole is incredibly versatile! Serve it alongside simply roasted meats, a festive holiday ham, or even grilled sausages for a hearty meal. For a fully vegetarian spread, try pairing with a green salad or roasted root vegetables to round out a cozy dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon the bubbly casserole into individual ramekins for dinner parties, or serve it as part of a buffet brunch. It’s also delicious layered in a big bowl as the star of a veggie-based meal—don’t be afraid to get creative with presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Cabbage Casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply transfer cooled portions to an airtight container and store for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors meld deliciously, making leftovers just as crave-worthy as fresh!
Freezing
If you want to freeze the casserole, assemble it right up to the point before baking. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed for homemade comfort at your fingertips.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave, or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until piping hot throughout. If the topping seems dry, cover loosely with foil for part of the reheating time to keep everything moist and cheesy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While green cabbage is classic, you can easily swap in savoy cabbage or even napa cabbage for a tender twist. Just know that red cabbage will add a pretty pop of color, although it may tint the sauce slightly.
How can I make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole lower in fat?
For a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and a light or olive-oil based mayonnaise. Reduced-fat cheeses melt well too. You’ll still get a creamy, delicious casserole with fewer calories and less fat.
Can I add meat to this casserole?
Definitely! Cooked ground sausage, chopped bacon, or diced ham can be added to the sautéed cabbage mixture for a satisfying, protein-packed upgrade. This makes Cheesy Cabbage Casserole an easy one-dish meal.
Can I prepare Cheesy Cabbage Casserole in advance?
Yes! Simply assemble the casserole ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as usual—just add a few extra minutes if it’s going straight from the fridge to the oven.
What’s the best way to crush crackers for the topping?
The easiest method is to place the Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs in a zipper bag and crush them with a rolling pin or your hands. For an extra-fine crumb, pulse in a food processor. Both methods give the topping that craveable crunch!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing comfort food that’s big on flavor, easy to assemble, and totally irresistible, Cheesy Cabbage Casserole should absolutely be on your menu. It’s one of those classic dishes that always brings people together, so gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a cozy homemade bake tonight!
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Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. With a blend of cabbage, cheeses, and a crispy topping, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head green cabbage (about 6 cups, chopped)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Cheesy Mixture:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sauté onions and cabbage: In a skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and cabbage until wilted and browned.
- Combine ingredients: Mix sautéed cabbage with cheeses and creamy mixture. Spread in baking dish.
- Add topping: Combine crushed crackers with butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Top with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Add cooked ground sausage or bacon for a heartier version.
- You can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
