If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with the humble cabbage, this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s that perfect balance of tender cabbage, rich cheese layers, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping that will have you scraping the sides of the baking dish. What’s truly wonderful about this recipe is how simple ingredients transform into a crowd-pleasing favorite, offering cozy flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe lies in a handful of straightforward ingredients — each playing a vital role in delivering flavor, creaminess, or that irresistible golden crust.
- Medium head of cabbage: Shredded for tenderness and a mild, slightly sweet base that holds up beautifully in the bake.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly without overpowering the dish.
- Small onion: Chopped finely to provide a gentle sweetness and depth as it softens.
- Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse the casserole with a subtle fragrant punch that complements the cheese.
- Sour cream: Brings creaminess and a slight tang that balances the richness of the cheeses.
- Cheddar cheese: Choose sharp or mild for melty, flavorful gooeyness throughout the casserole.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated for a salty, nutty note that adds complexity to the cheese sauce.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko works best to create a crispy, golden topping that contrasts with the creamy interior.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- Paprika (optional): Just a pinch for color and a bit of gentle warmth.
- Dried thyme or parsley (optional): Adds a subtle herbal note that keeps the flavor interesting.
- Eggs: Beaten to bind the mixture, helping the casserole hold its shape when baked.
- Melted butter (for topping): Drizzled over breadcrumbs to ensure a beautifully crisp and golden finish.
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 and blanch the shredded cabbage for about 3 to 4 minutes. This quick steaming softens the cabbage just enough to make it tender without turning mushy. Once blanched, drain and set the cabbage aside to cool slightly. This step ensures your casserole has a delicate texture that’s not too crunchy or soggy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
While the cabbage cools, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until they’re soft, fragrant, and slightly translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. This sautéing step releases sweetness and layers of flavor that become the backbone of your cheesy sauce.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, paprika, and your choice of dried thyme or parsley for extra nuance. Stir in the beaten eggs gently to make a creamy, rich sauce that will envelop the cabbage and aromatics perfectly, turning this casserole into a luscious, cohesive dish.
Step 4: Combine the Cabbage and Sauce
Next, fold the sautéed onions and garlic together with the blanched cabbage in a large bowl. Pour your cheese sauce over everything and stir carefully until all the cabbage strands are coated evenly. This is where the casserole really starts coming together, with every bite guaranteed to have that wonderful cheesy coating.
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 with a spatula and then generously sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the surface. Drizzle the melted butter over the breadcrumbs to create that perfect golden crust during baking — it’s the crunchy, buttery touch that turns this dish into an all-time favorite.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole for 25 to 30 minutes or until it’s bubbling hot and the breadcrumb topping is crisp and golden brown. The kitchen will fill with the most inviting aroma, promising a hearty, comforting meal ahead.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps it settle and makes it easier to slice. Whether as a side or a vegetarian main, the Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe shines with roasted meats or fresh salads, making every meal a cozy celebration.
How to Serve Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast to this rich dish. You could also try a few sliced green onions for a mild oniony bite that complements the creamy cabbage beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple roasted chicken or pork, allowing the casserole’s cheesy, tender texture to shine alongside more robust flavors. For a vegetarian spread, try it with a crisp green salad or roasted root vegetables to keep the balance of hearty and fresh on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming presentation or layer it with cooked rice or quinoa for an added grain base. Another fun idea is to turn leftovers into stuffed bell peppers for an entirely new and delicious meal the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making this dish just as delightful when reheated.
Freezing
Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe freezes well, too! Freeze portions in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results, ensuring the creamy texture stays intact without becoming watery.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the topping regains its crispness. Alternatively, microwave servings covered loosely to avoid drying, stirring halfway for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cabbage instead of fresh?
While fresh cabbage gives the best texture and flavor, frozen cabbage can work if thawed and drained well. Keep in mind it might be softer, so adjust blanching time accordingly.
What other cheeses could I use in this casserole?
Feel free to experiment with Swiss, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for different cheesy notes. Just make sure your choice melts well to keep that creamy consistency.
Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. You can ensure the cheese used is vegetarian by checking for non-animal rennet if that is a concern.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free varieties or crushed gluten-free crackers, and double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
How spicy is this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe?
This dish is mild in spice. The optional paprika adds a slight warmth and color, but it’s easily adjustable or omitted if you prefer.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting and delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a cozy, cheesy treat, this casserole is guaranteed to become a fast favorite. Give it a try and enjoy all the warmth and yum in every bite!
Print
Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 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 rich cheese sauce made from sour cream, cheddar, and Parmesan. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, it makes a perfect side or vegetarian main that is both creamy and crunchy.
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 well and set aside to cool.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme or parsley if using. Stir in the beaten eggs thoroughly to create a creamy cheese sauce.
- Combine the Cabbage and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched cabbage with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the cabbage mixture into a greased 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish. Smooth the surface, then sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top. Drizzle the melted butter over the breadcrumbs to ensure a golden and crispy topping after baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is nicely browned and crispy.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes post-baking to set. Serve warm as a hearty vegetarian main or a flavorful side dish alongside roasted meats.
Notes
- Blanching the cabbage softens it and helps reduce bitterness.
- Using panko breadcrumbs ensures a crispier topping compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute dried thyme with parsley or omit herbs based on preference.
- For a richer flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and reheated in the oven before serving.
- To keep it gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
