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
Scale
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.
