Microwave Cabbage Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole featuring tender cabbage, perfect for a comforting, quick family meal or a savory side dish with a mild, cheesy flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop or shred the cabbage and place it in a 4-quart casserole dish.
- Add 1 cup of water and microwave for 15 minutes, stirring twice during cooking.
- Drain the cabbage, reserving the juice.
- Microwave 3 tablespoons of butter until melted.
- Stir in the flour, then add the evaporated milk and the reserved cabbage water.
- Microwave for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring once a minute, until thickened.
- Layer half of the cooked cabbage in a 2-quart casserole dish, then half of the grated Cheddar cheese, and half of the sauce.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining cabbage, cheese, and sauce.
- Microwave the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
- Mix the melted butter with the bread crumbs and sprinkle the crumb mixture on top of the casserole.
- Microwave for 8 to 10 minutes, turning once during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce mixture. You can also substitute half of the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, pre-shredded cabbage can be a quick alternative. Adjust the seasoning by adding garlic powder or onion powder to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole as a hearty side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled chicken. It pairs beautifully with Wacky Mac Pasta Salad for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, enjoy it with a fresh garden salad. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of milk before reheating to restore moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 1091 calories, with 21g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and protein (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 868mg per serving (38% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella. Each will give a different flavor and texture, making it fun to experiment with your casserole. Just ensure the cheese melts well for the best results.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the sauce. You could also mix in some pepper jack cheese with the Cheddar for an extra kick of spice.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before microwaving it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and microwave as directed.
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).