Description
This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a comforting and flavorful baked dish featuring tender blanched cabbage enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crispy golden breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a hearty side or a vegetarian main, it blends sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and aromatic spices for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Eggs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Other Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the shredded cabbage for about 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Drain well and set aside to cool.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine sour cream, shredded 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 bowl, mix the blanched cabbage with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour the cheese sauce over and stir gently until the cabbage is well coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the cabbage mixture into a greased 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish. Smooth out the surface, then sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top. Drizzle melted butter over the breadcrumbs to help form a golden, crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a comforting vegetarian main dish.
Notes
- Using panko breadcrumbs adds extra crunch to the topping.
- You can substitute fresh parsley for dried thyme or parsley if preferred.
- For a milder cheese flavor, use mild cheddar instead of sharp.
- This dish re-heats well and can be prepared ahead of time.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
