Pigs Without Blankets
Pigs Without Blankets features savory meat, cabbage, and potatoes layered with bacon, baked to perfection—comforting, hearty, and ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown onion, celery, green pepper, and hamburger in butter.
- Mix tomato soup, tomato juice, salt, pepper, vinegar, and garlic powder to prepare the sauce.
- Layer in a greased 4-quart casserole: half of the cabbage, half of the potatoes, all of the meat mixture, and half of the sauce.
- Repeat the layering with remaining cabbage, potatoes, meat mixture, and sauce.
- Top with bacon slices.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger. You can also add spices such as paprika or Italian seasoning to enhance the taste. If you want a healthier version, substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it altogether. Be sure to sauté the vegetables until soft to maximize their flavor before layering them in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Hope'S Baked Beans for a comforting dinner. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley or chives just before serving to add color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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) for about 20-30 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pigs Without Blankets contains roughly 903 calories, with 28g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (170% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and iron (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2871mg per serving (125% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all layers, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What if I don't have tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use crushed tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce as a substitute. Just add a bit of sugar to balance the acidity, and mix in some spices like oregano or basil for added flavor.
Can I use frozen cabbage in this recipe?
Yes, frozen cabbage can be used in this recipe, but it may release more moisture during cooking. Ensure to thaw and drain it well before layering to avoid a watery casserole. Fresh cabbage will yield a firmer texture, so choose based on your preference.
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).