Mid-West Casserole
A hearty casserole blending cabbage, carrots, potatoes, and bread with eggs and herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a saucepan.
- Add cabbage, potato, celery, carrot, onion, and parsley.
- Cook over low heat for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine egg yolks and milk; blend in bread cubes, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually blend in the vegetable mixture.
- Fold in stiffly beaten egg whites.
- Pour into a well-greased 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider replacing margarine with olive oil and using low-fat milk. You can also add cooked sausage or bacon for extra flavor. If you're short on time, pre-shredded cabbage and pre-grated carrots can speed up the prep. This Mid-West Casserole is versatile; feel free to swap in other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is best served warm and can be a delightful main dish for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a fresh salad like Frances' Green Party Salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It also makes a great side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mid-West Casserole contains roughly 777 calories, with 32g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (144% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (126% of the Daily Value), and potassium (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1956mg per serving (85% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to bake, remove the cover and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in a preheated oven.
What can I substitute for egg whites?
If you need an egg white substitute, consider using aquafaba (chickpea brine) as a vegan option. About 3 tablespoons of aquafaba can replace one egg white. Whip it until it forms stiff peaks, just like you would with egg whites for this recipe.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this Mid-West Casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It’s perfect for meal prepping!
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).