Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than Cheesy Cabbage Casserole! This irresistible bake brings together tender cabbage, savory ground meat, and a gloriously creamy, cheesy sauce all layered together for a bubbling, golden finish. It’s the kind of cozy dish that’s guaranteed to become a staple in your dinner rotation—satisfying, family-friendly, and absolutely packed with flavor. Whether you’re already a cabbage lover or just want to sneak more veggies into weeknight meals, Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that checks every box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a short, everyday ingredients list transforms into something truly crave-worthy. Each element plays a part—adding texture, creaminess, or depth, so be sure not to skip any! Here’s what you’ll need to bring Cheesy Cabbage Casserole to life:
- Green cabbage: Chop up a medium head; its mild flavor becomes deliciously sweet and soft when baked.
- Olive oil: Just a tablespoon helps sauté and soften the onion and boosts overall richness.
- Onion: A small, diced onion adds savory depth and a touch of sweetness to every bite.
- Garlic: Two minced cloves give a gentle, aromatic kick—don’t leave this out!
- Ground beef or turkey: One pound gives the casserole its hearty, satisfying base—use your favorite or what you have on hand.
- Salt & pepper: A classic duo that brings out the best in every ingredient.
- Paprika: Just a bit gives warmth and subtle color to the mix.
- Italian seasoning: One teaspoon infuses every layer with herbs for that perfect comfort food flavor.
- Condensed cream of mushroom or chicken soup: The secret hero for instant creaminess and savory undertones.
- Sour cream: For tangy richness and a silky casserole texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, bold, and full of flavor; one and a half cups make this casserole extra cheesy.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretchy melt and a mild dairy boost—just half a cup needed.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Essential for an easy release and simple clean-up.
How to Make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a generous coat of nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your Cheesy Cabbage Casserole comes out easily, without any cheesy bits sticking behind. Getting this step out of the way early streamlines everything that follows!
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat your olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges turn translucent. Next, toss in the minced garlic for just one minute—this quick sauté builds a fragrant foundation that makes a big difference when layered with the rest of the ingredients.
Step 3: Brown the Meat and Season
To your softened onions and garlic, add the ground beef or turkey. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks, ensuring crumbles get browned and flavorful. While it’s sizzling away, sprinkle in the salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the meat is no longer pink; the seasonings infuse everything with classic, savory notes that define the dish.
Step 4: Cook the Cabbage
Meanwhile, bring a big pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Drop in your chopped cabbage and let it cook for 4–5 minutes—just enough to soften it slightly without losing that lovely bite. Drain the cabbage well to keep your casserole from getting watery; extra moisture is the enemy of cheesy, golden bakes!
Step 5: Mix and Assemble
In a large bowl, combine the just-cooked cabbage and the browned meat mixture. Stir in the condensed soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. The resulting mixture should come together as a hearty, creamy, and fragrant filling—it already smells incredible at this point!
Step 6: Layer and Top
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, making sure to spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella over the top. This cheesy layer turns gorgeously bubbly and golden as it bakes, giving the Cheesy Cabbage Casserole its signature finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes, letting everything melt and meld together. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the topping is bubbling and beautifully golden. Don’t skip the five-minute rest before serving—this helps everything set up for easier scooping and keeps the flavors melded together.
How to Serve Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives right before serving adds a burst of color and a pop of freshness. For a bit of crunch, try a handful of crispy fried onions or a scattering of buttery breadcrumbs toasted until golden—these give the Cheesy Cabbage Casserole a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This casserole is rich and filling on its own, but it pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or some steamed, brightly colored vegetables—think green beans or carrots—to balance the creamy indulgence of the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform Cheesy Cabbage Casserole into personal servings by scooping it into individual ramekins before baking. Or, spoon the warm, golden casserole into hollowed bread bowls for a fun, edible vessel. For a family-style twist, let everyone top their portions with their favorite condiments—hot sauce, extra sour cream, or diced tomatoes for added brightness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the casserole cool to room temperature before covering it tightly or transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen and get even more comforting over time!
Freezing
Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is freezer-friendly for those busy nights. Cool the casserole completely, then wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by foil, or use a tight-sealing freezer container. Label and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To restore that hot, melty goodness, reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. If you’re short on time, individual portions can be microwaved in 30–60 second bursts. For best results, cover with foil to help retain moisture and keep the top cheese from drying out.
FAQs
Can I make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole earlier in the day (or even the day before), cover it well, and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Add an extra ten minutes or so to the covered baking time if it’s starting out cold.
What kind of meat works best?
Ground beef brings a classic, hearty flavor, but ground turkey is a fantastic lighter option that’s just as satisfying. You could also use ground chicken or even a blend, based on what your family enjoys.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
You can substitute red cabbage if that’s what you have, but be aware it will bring a different color and a slightly stronger flavor. The casserole will still taste delicious, though the texture and presentation may change a bit.
How can I make this gluten-free?
To make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole gluten-free, select a certified gluten-free condensed soup or use a homemade equivalent. Double-check your seasonings for hidden gluten, and all the remaining ingredients are safe as is!
What’s the best way to add crunch?
For extra crunch on top, sprinkle crushed butter crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese layer during the last ten minutes of baking. Toast them until golden for a fabulous textural surprise with each bite.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sharing a bubbling dish of Cheesy Cabbage Casserole at the table—every forkful is a little celebration of comfort, flavor, and togetherness. Give it a try the next time you crave something warm and homey, and watch the smiles around your table grow. Your family and friends will be asking for seconds before you know it!
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Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef or turkey, creamy sauces, and gooey cheeses for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Sauce and Cheese:
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Additional:
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sauté Onion and Meat: In a skillet, sauté onion in olive oil, then add garlic and ground meat, seasoning with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook Cabbage: Boil cabbage until slightly tender, then drain.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix cabbage, meat mixture, soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese in a bowl.
- Bake: Spread mixture in the baking dish, top with remaining cheeses, cover with foil, and bake. Uncover and bake until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For added crunch, top with crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs before baking.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
