Ah, the joy of a warm, cheesy casserole! Let me tell you, there’s something magical about the combination of cabbage and cheese that entirely transforms your average weeknight dinner into a cozy family gathering. I stumbled upon this **Cheesy Cabbage Casserole** during a particularly cold winter when I needed something warm and comforting to soothe my soul. One bite of this creamy, cheesy goodness reminded me of my grandma’s kitchen—she always knew how to feed both my belly and my heart!
This casserole is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak some veggies into your diet without even noticing. I love how easy it is to throw together and how it fills the entire house with mouthwatering aromas. Plus, it’s perfect for making ahead of time when I’m anticipating a busy evening. Just pop it in the oven, and you’re good to go!
What’s in Cheesy Cabbage Casserole?
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish so scrumptious:
Cabbage: The star of the show! I use a medium head of cabbage that gets all tender and tasty when baked. You can chop it or slice it according to your texture preference.
Cheddar Cheese: I like to use sharp cheddar for its tangy flavor, but any melty cheese will work. You’ll need one cup divided, so save some for that glorious cheesy topping at the end.
Sour Cream: This adds a luscious creaminess to the casserole and helps bind everything together. You can also substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: You can go for a canned version for convenience or whip up a homemade version if you’re feeling adventurous. It adds a rich, savory depth to the casserole.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These veggies bring in a sweet crunch and some extra flavor. I typically like a classic yellow onion and a sweet bell pepper, but feel free to mix it up!
Garlic Powder and Black Pepper: Just a sprinkle of these warms up the flavors!
Crushed Buttery Crackers: Think Ritz or Town House; they provide the perfect crunchy topping!
Melted Butter: This combines with the crushed crackers to create that golden, crispy topping we all love.
Fresh Parsley: A little sprinkle before serving adds a pop of color and freshness, plus it just looks fancy!
Is Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Good for You?
Absolutely! While this casserole is indulgent, it does have its benefits.
Cabbage: This leafy green is low in calories but high in fiber, making it great for digestion and heart health. Plus, it contains vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system—definitely a win during cold and flu season!
Cheddar Cheese: Let’s be real, cheese gives us joy! It’s a good source of calcium and protein, though it’s best enjoyed in moderation. You might want to use reduced-fat cheese if you’re watching your fat intake.
Sour Cream: While this adds creaminess, you can opt for low-fat options for a healthier twist.
The downsides? Well, if you’re watching your sodium intake, pay attention to the cream of mushroom soup and salt. Moderation is key with this cheesy delight!
How to Make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole?
Now that you’re salivating, let’s get cooking this deliciousness!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Blanch the chopped cabbage in a large pot of boiling water for about 5 minutes, just to soften it up. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, half of your shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, garlic powder, black pepper, and a touch of salt. Mix it all together until it’s well combined.
4. Add in your blanched cabbage and stir thoroughly to coat everything.
5. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish—don’t skimp on the grease; it helps with cleanup!
6. In a small bowl, combine your crushed crackers with the melted butter until they’re well coated and crumbly.
7. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. Isn’t it already looking glorious?
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
9. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Pop it back in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until that cheese is ooey-gooey melted perfection.
10. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh parsley!
Elevate Your Casserole Game!
Here are some extra tips and variations to make this casserole your own:
– Add cooked ground beef or turkey for a heartier version—great for meat lovers!
– Swap in your favorite veggies like mushrooms or spinach.
– Have some leftover turkey? Throw that in; it’s a great way to reduce waste.
– This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a simple garden salad for a complete meal.
I really hope you give this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole a try! It’s a dish that has the power to bring warmth and comfort in the simplest of ways. Let me know how it turns out for you—happy cooking, friends!
