Cabbage casserole is like a warm hug from your grandma on a chilly day, wrapped in layers of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a gooey blanket of cheese. Picture this: the aroma wafting through your kitchen, making your stomach growl louder than a toddler denied dessert. hearty lentil soup pairing Each bite bursts with flavors that dance on your taste buds like they just won the lottery.
This dish is not just for Sunday dinners; it’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need comfort food without sacrificing time. Trust me; once you try this delightful cabbage casserole, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. For more inspiration, check out this creamy cauliflower soup recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The cabbage casserole comes together quickly and requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Its rich, cheesy flavor will please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
- The stunning layers of colorful ingredients create a visual feast that will impress your guests.
- Versatile enough to be customized with your favorite proteins and veggies, this dish can adapt to any dietary preference.
Ingredients for Cabbage Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Green Cabbage: Choose a firm head of cabbage; its crisp texture adds crunch and flavor to the casserole.
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Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option while still enjoying that juicy flavor.
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Onion: A medium onion brings sweetness and depth; chop it finely to blend seamlessly into the casserole.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add aromatic goodness; don’t skimp on this essential flavor booster.
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Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide moisture and acidity; choose those with herbs for extra flavor.
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Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives that melty finish we all crave—feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness!
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Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs elevates the dish with classic Italian flavors; use store-bought or make your own.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cabbage Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage
Remove the core from the cabbage and slice it into thin strips. Steam or blanch the cabbage in boiling water for about five minutes until slightly tender. Drain well.
Step 3: Cook the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until softened, around three minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning before removing from heat.
Step 4: Assemble Layers
Spread half of the cooked cabbage in an even layer in your greased baking dish. Spoon half of the meat mixture over it, then sprinkle with a generous layer of cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Repeat Layers
Repeat this layering process with the remaining ingredients—cabbage, meat mixture, and top with more cheese.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Remove foil during the last ten minutes to allow cheese to bubble up nicely.
Serve hot from the oven and watch as everyone rushes to fill their plates! Transfer portions to plates and drizzle with any leftover sauce or extra melted cheese for that perfect finishing touch.
This savory cabbage casserole is sure to become a cherished family favorite!
You Must Know
- This delicious cabbage casserole is more than just a comforting dish; it’s a family favorite that combines health and flavor effortlessly.
- The vibrant layers of cabbage, cheese, and spices create a visual feast that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
- Perfect for meal prep or cozy family dinners!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the perfect cabbage casserole, start by sautéing your onions and garlic until fragrant. Layer the cabbage next, then add your meat or beans before sprinkling cheese on top. Bake until golden brown, ensuring everything melds beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your cabbage casserole by swapping out ground beef for turkey or adding different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack. Toss in some chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring that the cheese gets bubbly again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, roast your veggies before adding them to the casserole.
- This enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices like paprika or cumin for a twist!
- Lastly, let the casserole sit after baking; this helps everything set nicely.
In my early cooking days, I made this cabbage casserole for my friends’ potluck. They loved it so much that I received requests for the recipe—who knew something so simple could steal the show?
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Cabbage Casserole?
To make a delicious Cabbage Casserole, you will need fresh cabbage, ground meat (such as beef or turkey), rice, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and seasonings like salt and pepper. You can also add cheese for a creamy texture. sloppy joes for a hearty meal These ingredients create a hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables or spices you enjoy.
How long does it take to cook Cabbage Casserole?
Cooking Cabbage Casserole typically takes about 1 hour total. You will need approximately 20 minutes for preparation and 40 minutes for baking in the oven at 350°F (175°C). This time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the cabbage is tender yet retains its structure. Adjust cooking times based on your oven’s specifics.
Can I make Cabbage Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cabbage Casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, remove from the fridge and bake as instructed. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep or gatherings where you want to save time on the day of serving.
Is Cabbage Casserole healthy?
Cabbage Casserole can indeed be a healthy meal option! It is packed with vegetables and can be made with lean meats and whole grains like brown rice. The dish is low in calories while providing essential nutrients and fiber. flavorful rice dishes as sides By carefully choosing your ingredients, you can create a nutritious casserole that fits well into various diets.
Conclusion for Cabbage Casserole:
In conclusion, Cabbage Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings together wholesome ingredients in one delightful meal. With its rich flavors and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Remember that you can customize this recipe with different meats or vegetables to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy making this comforting casserole that everyone will love! For more inspiration, check out this satisfying sausage dish recipe.
Cabbage Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cabbage casserole is a comforting dish that combines layers of tender cabbage, savory lean ground beef, and gooey cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, delivering rich flavors that even picky eaters will love. With minimal prep time and customizable ingredients, this hearty casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage (about 2 lbs)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- Remove the core from the cabbage and slice it into thin strips. Steam or blanch for about five minutes until slightly tender; drain well.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add onions and garlic; sauté until softened (about three minutes). Stir in diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
- Spread half of the cooked cabbage in the baking dish, followed by half of the meat mixture and a layer of cheese. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove foil during the last ten minutes to allow cheese to bubble.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Substitute ground beef with turkey or add extra veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition. For a richer flavor, roast any additional vegetables before adding them to the casserole.