Fresh Cabbage & Cheese Casserole
A creamy, cheesy cabbage casserole with a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for comforting family dinners and highlighting the mild sweetness of cooked cabbage.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coarsely slice the cabbage and steam in a small amount of water for about 10 minutes. Drain well.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour to the melted butter and cook, stirring constantly, until smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked cabbage to the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle browned bread crumbs or croutons on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the cheese sauce. You can substitute the sharp cheddar with other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different taste. If you're looking for a lighter option, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure to steam the cabbage until just tender to keep some crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting side, consider serving it alongside Old Fashioned Corn Bread. It's also a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily be doubled for larger groups.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Cabbage & Cheese Casserole contains roughly 407 calories, with 14g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. When you're ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
If you're not a fan of cheddar, you can use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Parmesan for a milder flavor. For a vegan alternative, try a dairy-free cheese that melts well, or make a cashew cheese sauce for a creamy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for vegetarian diets since it features cabbage and cheese as the main ingredients. You can also browse more vegetarian recipes to find complementary dishes to serve alongside this casserole.
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).