Cabbage Casserole Recipe

You’re about to fall in love with a new comfort food classic: Cabbage Casserole. This dish takes humble cabbage and transforms it into a creamy, herb-laced bake with golden cheese on top, all wrapped in a fluffy savory “custard” you won’t believe came together with such little effort. Whether you’re looking for a fuss-free weeknight meal or something unique for a potluck, this casserole always wins over skeptics and cabbage fans alike with its satisfying flavors and beautiful presentation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cabbage Casserole is in its simple ingredients—each one adds its unique touch, from the creamy base to the fresh herbs and gooey cheese. Here’s why every element counts:

• Eggs: These are the structure and heart of the casserole, binding everything into a lovely, tender bake.
• Sour cream: Provides a gentle tang and extra creaminess, making the casserole rich without feeling heavy.
• Mayonnaise: Brings moisture and a subtle richness, ensuring that every bite is never dry.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the custardy base, keeping everything cohesive and sliceable.
• Baking powder: Lifts the casserole slightly for a delicate, almost quiche-like texture.
• Cornstarch: Another secret to that perfect set—gives a silkiness to the interior.
• Green cabbage: The star! Sliced thin, it softens but doesn’t disappear, offering subtle sweetness and bite.
• Salt: Essential for drawing out flavor—and for tenderizing the cabbage as you prep.
• Dill: A fresh, bright herb that wakes up all the creamy flavors and adds a lovely green fleck.
• Green onion: Offers a pop of mild onion flavor and a beautiful finish—save some extra for garnishing!
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, forming a dreamy golden crust to cap things off.

How to Make Cabbage Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Set the stage for success by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round pie dish with butter—this not only prevents sticking but also adds that extra layer of richness to the finished casserole.

Step 2: Whisk the Creamy Base

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk your eggs until smooth, then blend in the sour cream and mayonnaise. This mixture is the magic glue that will hold all the flavors together while creating an irresistibly lush texture.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a smaller bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and cornstarch. This simple blend ensures the casserole holds its shape and bakes up slightly puffed and perfectly tender. Gradually whisk this dry mix into your wet base until everything is smooth and lump-free.

Step 4: Prep the Cabbage Mixture

Slice your cabbage finely and sprinkle it with 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a separate bowl. Now, use your hands to gently scrunch the cabbage for about 30 seconds—this softens it, seasons it from within, and jump-starts the melding of flavors. Stir in the fresh dill and green onion for a pop of color and brightness.

Step 5: Layer and Assemble

Spread the seasoned cabbage mixture evenly over the bottom of your greased dish, making sure it’s in a nice, even layer. Slowly pour your creamy egg mixture over the cabbage, allowing it to seep down and coat every strand.

Step 6: Cheese It Up and Bake

Finish your assembly by scattering the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Place the dish on the center rack and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and the center feels set but still moist when pressed.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Allow your Cabbage Casserole to cool for a few minutes once it’s out of the oven. This resting time helps everything set perfectly. Just before serving, sprinkle a generous handful of extra green onion over the top for a fresh burst and an extra dash of color.

How to Serve Cabbage Casserole

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way with Cabbage Casserole. I love scattering more chopped green onions or a pinch of extra dill across the top just before serving—these fresh touches not only brighten the look but also amp up the flavor. For a fun twist, sprinkle on some crunchy fried onions or a dusting of smoked paprika for added flair.

Side Dishes

Cabbage Casserole plays nicely with all sorts of sides. Try pairing it with a simple tomato salad, some roasted potatoes, or even a tangy cucumber-dill salad. It also makes a dreamy brunch when served alongside crispy bacon, a handful of mixed greens, or a slice of sourdough bread.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, bake your Cabbage Casserole in individual ramekins for personal-sized servings. Or use a rectangular baking pan, then slice into neat little squares for potlucks and buffets. You could also top each slice with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a swirl of hot sauce for contrasting flavors and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cabbage Casserole stores beautifully. Let the casserole cool to room temperature before covering tightly with foil or transferring to an airtight container. In the fridge, it’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick weekday dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole, either whole or in portions. To do so, wrap well in plastic and foil or place in freezer-safe containers. It will keep for about 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and know that the texture may be just a bit softer, but the taste remains deliciously comforting.

Reheating

Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a minute or two, or warm larger portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly. If reheating from the fridge, covering with foil will keep it from drying out—and don’t forget an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs to revive the flavors!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in Cabbage Casserole?

Absolutely! While mozzarella melts like a dream, you can experiment with mild cheddar, gruyere, or even a blend for a different flavor. Just aim for cheeses that melt nicely and complement the delicate cabbage and herbs.

Do I have to use fresh dill, or can I substitute dried?

Fresh dill brings brightness and a soft, green flavor, but if it’s not available, dried dill works too—just use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Other fresh herbs like parsley or chives also fit well in this casserole.

Is Cabbage Casserole gluten-free?

With the standard recipe, it’s not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour. However, you can easily substitute a gluten-free flour blend, or even potato starch, for a gluten-free version! Just make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free.

Can I add meat or other vegetables?

Definitely! Cooked, crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even shredded cooked chicken can be mixed in. For extra vegetables, try adding sautéed mushrooms, grated carrot, or even a handful of spinach for more color and nutrition.

What’s the best way to slice cabbage for this recipe?

Use a sharp knife or a mandoline to slice the cabbage very thinly. The finer the shreds, the more tender and luscious the casserole will be after baking, letting the custard and cheese mingle perfectly with every bite.

Final Thoughts

There’s something irresistibly cozy about a dish like Cabbage Casserole—creamy, savory, and full of warmth. If you love discovering new comfort foods or want a playful riff on classic vegetables, don’t miss out on this one. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and make it your own!

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