Introduction
Cabbage casserole is one of those comforting, old-fashioned dishes that quietly delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It is the kind of recipe that feels practical yet deeply satisfying, especially on busy weeknights or when you want something warm and nourishing without complicated steps. I started making this casserole as a way to turn simple cabbage into a complete meal, and it quickly became a favorite at the table. The cabbage softens beautifully as it bakes, absorbing the savory flavors around it, while the creamy base and baked topping bring everything together into one cohesive dish. This recipe strikes a balance between hearty and light, making it suitable as a main course or a substantial side. Whether you are cooking for family or preparing meals ahead of time, this cabbage casserole is dependable, economical, and surprisingly versatile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cabbage casserole is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and deeply comforting. It uses simple ingredients that are easy to find, yet the final result feels rich and satisfying. The casserole reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers, and it can be customized to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences.
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Comforting and Hearty Cabbage Casserole for Any Day of the Week
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty cabbage casserole made with tender cabbage, savory onions, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, perfect as a simple family dinner or side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage, chopped (about 1.2 kg)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a casserole dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the chopped cabbage for 5 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture, stir well, and slowly add milk while stirring until a smooth sauce forms.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, sauce, cheddar cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and remaining Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle evenly on top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- For a creamier texture, substitute half the milk with cream.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ingredients Breakdown
Green Cabbage
Cabbage is the foundation of this casserole. When baked, it becomes tender and mildly sweet, providing structure and bulk to the dish without heaviness.
Onion
Onion adds depth and a subtle sweetness that balances the cabbage. As it cooks, it softens and blends into the casserole seamlessly.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the savory character of the dish. Even a small amount makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Ground Beef
Ground beef adds richness and protein, turning the casserole into a complete and filling meal. It also pairs well with the mild flavor of cabbage.
Cooked Rice
Rice helps bind the casserole together and absorbs the surrounding flavors, giving the dish a satisfying texture.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
This ingredient provides creaminess and acts as the binding base. It keeps the casserole moist while adding a savory undertone.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese melts into the casserole, adding richness and a slightly sharp flavor that complements the cabbage.
Salt and Black Pepper
These seasonings balance and enhance all the other ingredients without overpowering them.
Butter
Butter adds richness and helps soften the cabbage as it bakes.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 180°C and lightly grease a casserole dish. Begin by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the onion until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt and black pepper. Once fully cooked, remove from heat. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cabbage, cooked rice, beef mixture, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, baking time is 50 minutes, and resting time is 5 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 170°C until warmed through.
Variations and Customizations
Cabbage casserole is highly adaptable and can be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding sautéed mushrooms or lentils for texture and protein.
If you enjoy bold flavors, consider adding paprika, thyme, or a pinch of chili flakes. For extra creaminess, mix a small amount of sour cream into the soup base. You can also replace rice with cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Changing the cheese is another simple customization; mozzarella offers a milder flavor, while a sharp cheese adds more intensity.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 28 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Cut the cabbage into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
Lightly sautéing the cabbage before baking can create a softer texture.
Let the casserole rest briefly before serving to help it set properly.
Adjust seasoning after mixing, as cabbage can mellow flavors during baking.
FAQs
Can I make cabbage casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and bake it when ready.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze it tightly covered for up to two months.
Should I cook the cabbage first?
It is not required, but lightly sautéing it will make it softer.
Can I use red cabbage?
Green cabbage is recommended, as red cabbage can alter the color.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free condensed soup and rice.
What can I serve with cabbage casserole?
It pairs well with a simple salad or crusty bread.
Can I add tomatoes?
Yes, diced tomatoes can add acidity and brightness.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it has mild flavors and a soft texture.
Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, leftover rice works perfectly in this recipe.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Keep it covered during most of the baking time and avoid overbaking.
Conclusion
This cabbage casserole is a practical, comforting dish that transforms humble ingredients into a satisfying meal. With its flexible nature and make-ahead convenience, it is a recipe you can rely on for both everyday dinners and relaxed gatherings.
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