Ham And Cabbage Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender cabbage, savory ham, and a creamy sauce, topped with buttery bread crumbs; perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cabbage until tender in water with a little salt, about 6 to 8 minutes, then drain well.
- Saute cubed cooked ham in butter until lightly browned.
- Mix the browned ham with flour, milk, and salt to create the sauce.
- Layer cooked cabbage and sauce in a baking dish.
- Top with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake in a moderate oven for 15 to 20 minutes until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating some chopped onions or garlic when sautéing the ham. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half for the milk, or use a non-dairy milk for a vegetarian variation. Additionally, using fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the dish further.
Serving Suggestions
This Ham and Cabbage Casserole serves as a satisfying main dish, but it pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a comforting combination, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables. It's also a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 1090 calories, with 14g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (76% of the Daily Value), and iron (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 966mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh cabbage instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh cabbage, but it will require longer cooking time to become tender. You can blanch it for a few minutes before layering it in the casserole to help soften it. This ensures the cabbage integrates well in the dish.
What type of ham works best for this recipe?
Cooked, smoked ham is ideal for this casserole, as it adds a rich flavor. However, you can also use leftover holiday ham or even deli ham if that's what you have on hand. Just make sure it's fully cooked before using.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge for best results.
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).