Bacon Cabbage Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender cabbage, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and savory celery soup. This dish offers comforting flavors with a crisp bacon topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and delivers a satisfying, cheesy vegetable casserole everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon until crisp.
- Cut up the cabbage and layer it in an 8 x 11-inch casserole dish.
- Spread the cream of celery soup over the cabbage.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and sprinkle it over the soup.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Add a small amount of water to the casserole.
- Bake at 325°F for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding sautéed onions and garlic. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute turkey bacon and use a low-fat cream of celery soup. Additionally, adding some cooked quinoa or brown rice can enhance the dish's texture and nutritional value. This casserole can also be made with other vegetables, like kale or Brussels sprouts, for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Bacon Cabbage Casserole is a hearty main dish that pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or cornbread. It also makes a great side dish for holiday meals, complementing recipes like Thanksgiving Stuffing. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for a few minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 69 calories, with 4g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cabbage instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. Fresh cabbage provides a better texture, but frozen can work in a pinch. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as frozen cabbage might require a bit longer to cook through.
Can I add more ingredients to this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole is quite versatile. You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even cooked chicken for added protein. If you want to make it vegetarian, consider omitting the bacon and adding more vegetables or even some beans for extra heartiness. The base recipe is forgiving and allows for plenty of creativity.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).