Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a delightful comfort food dish that effortlessly brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its creamy texture and savory flavor, this casserole is more than just another side dish; it’s a family favorite that promises to be the star of your dinner table. The golden layer of melted cheddar cheese on top adds a rich depth, making each bite a heavenly experience. Not only is the dish delicious, but it’s also incredibly simple to make, which is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty without the fuss.
What makes Cheesy Cabbage Casserole a standout is its versatility. It can serve as an excellent side dish for various meats or even hold its ground as a vegetarian main course. Using fresh ingredients like green cabbage and a touch of sweetness from Vidalia onions enhances the flavors, while the creamy soup and mayonnaise create a luscious backdrop. This casserole is not only appealing but also packed with nutrition, thanks to the cabbage, which is high in fiber and essential vitamins. If you’re looking to impress your family and friends, this dish will surely make them come back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
- Comfort Food Classic: A creamy, cheesy dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday ingredients that are usually easy to find.
- Quick Preparation: Perfect for busy nights, taking minimal time to prepare.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have or personal preferences.
- Delicious Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before jumping into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your workspace and gather all necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure it is heated properly when the casserole is ready to go in. You’ll need a 2-quart baking dish, which is the perfect size for this recipe, and a large skillet to cook the cabbage and onions. Having a measuring cup and spoons handy will help measure out ingredients like mayonnaise and butter accurately.
Prepare your ingredients by chopping the green cabbage and Vidalia onion so they are ready to go. As you cook, it helps to have a mixing bowl for combining the creamy soup and mayonnaise. Lastly, a spatula or large spoon will be necessary for stirring and transferring ingredients easily. Once everything is set up, you can focus on creating this delicious dish without any distractions!
Ingredients
- 1 small green cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium Vidalia onion, chopped
- 8 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken or mushroom soup
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly greasing your 2-quart baking dish will create a non-stick surface for your casserole, ensuring it comes out easily and doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt 8 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and starting to bubble, add the chopped cabbage and Vidalia onion. Sauté this mixture for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking. Feel free to season the vegetables generously with salt and pepper, which will help bring out their natural flavor and sweetness.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Once the cabbage and onions have softened and become slightly translucent, transfer this mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken or mushroom soup with the mayonnaise until smooth. Next, pour this creamy mixture over the cabbage in the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure every bite will be flavorful.
Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping
Combine the melted butter with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese in a small bowl. This mixture will serve as a delectable topping for your casserole. Sprinkle it generously over the assembled casserole, making sure to cover the surface entirely. This will create that irresistible golden, bubbly layer while baking!
Step 5: Bake and Enjoy
Now it’s time to pop your Cheesy Cabbage Casserole into the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until you notice that the edges are bubbling and the cheese has turned a beautiful golden color. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Variations
- Protein: Add cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier dish.
- Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Spices: Spice it up with red pepper flakes or paprika for added flavor.
Cooking Notes
- If you prefer a lighter casserole, consider using low-fat versions of the mayonnaise and cream soup.
- This dish freezes well; make it ahead of time and freeze before baking for convenient meal options.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken or steak for a satisfying family dinner.
- Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Tips
- For an even creamier texture, mix in a bit of sour cream with the mayonnaise.
- If you like a crunch, top with breadcrumbs before the cheese layer for added texture.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
FAQs
Can I use a different type of onion?
Absolutely! While Vidalia onions add a wonderful sweetness, you can use yellow or white onions if you prefer a sharper flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use a vegetarian cream soup, and you have a delicious vegetarian casserole.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, fish, or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is an irresistible dish that beautifully blends flavors and textures. Its creamy, cheesy goodness alongside nutritious cabbage makes it a perfect option for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This recipe is easy to create, and once you give it a try, you’ll find it hard to resist making it again. We encourage you to experiment and make this recipe your own with different ingredients and toppings. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or variations in the comments below, and happy cooking!
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Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a delightful comfort food dish that effortlessly brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 small green cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium Vidalia onion, chopped
- 8 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken or mushroom soup
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly greasing your 2-quart baking dish will create a non-stick surface for your casserole, ensuring it comes out easily and doesn’t stick to the bottom.
- In a large skillet, melt 8 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and starting to bubble, add the chopped cabbage and Vidalia onion. Sauté this mixture for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking. Feel free to season the vegetables generously with salt and pepper, which will help bring out their natural flavor and sweetness.
- Once the cabbage and onions have softened and become slightly translucent, transfer this mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken or mushroom soup with the mayonnaise until smooth. Next, pour this creamy mixture over the cabbage in the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure every bite will be flavorful.
- Combine the melted butter with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese in a small bowl. This mixture will serve as a delectable topping for your casserole. Sprinkle it generously over the assembled casserole, making sure to cover the surface entirely. This will create that irresistible golden, bubbly layer while baking!
- Now it’s time to pop your Cheesy Cabbage Casserole into the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until you notice that the edges are bubbling and the cheese has turned a beautiful golden color. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Notes
If you prefer a lighter casserole, consider using low-fat versions of the mayonnaise and cream soup. This dish freezes well; make it ahead of time and freeze before baking for convenient meal options.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Protein: 8 g