Cabbage casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. This easy recipe combines shredded cabbage with cheddar cheese, onions, and a creamy sauce, all topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making an Easy Cabbage Casserole, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (sharp preferred, but use your favorite)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of celery soup
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 ½ cups Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
- Shred the Cabbage:
- Shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or a food processor. Ensure the pieces are uniformly sized for even cooking.
- Slice the Onion:
- Thinly slice the onion and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Ingredients:
- In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the shredded cabbage evenly. Layer half of the sliced onions over the cabbage. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Repeat Layers:
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, onions, and 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Add the Cream of Celery Soup:
- In a small bowl, mix the condensed cream of celery soup with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Pour the mixture evenly over the layered cabbage and cheese.
Step 3: Add the Topping
- Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the Italian-seasoned bread crumbs with the remaining melted butter. Mix until the bread crumbs are evenly coated.
- Top the Casserole:
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Cool:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the cabbage casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish as a main course or a side dish.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Cabbage: Green cabbage works best for this recipe, but you can also use savoy or napa cabbage for a different texture.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese provides a robust flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyere, or a cheese blend.
Variations:
- Add Protein:
- Incorporate cooked ground beef, sausage, or diced chicken to make the casserole a complete meal.
- Vegetarian Option:
- Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of celery for a different flavor. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.
- Spicy Version:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes and then bake as directed.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
4. What can I serve with cabbage casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. It also makes a great main course when paired with crusty bread.
5. Can I use fresh breadcrumbs instead of Italian-seasoned bread crumbs?
Yes, you can use fresh breadcrumbs. To make them seasoned, add a teaspoon each of dried basil, oregano, and garlic powder to the breadcrumbs.
Easy Cabbage Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, cheesy layers and crunchy breadcrumb topping, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a holiday meal, this recipe is simple to follow and full of delightful flavors. Give this Easy Cabbage Casserole recipe a try and enjoy a warm and satisfying meal. Happy cooking!
