Scalloped Cabbages
Creamy scalloped cabbages with ham, bacon, and green pepper offer a comforting, savory side dish perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Wash and core the cabbage, then cut into 1/2-inch slices.
- Steam the cabbage for 5 to 7 minutes until tender, then drain and place into a casserole dish.
- Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat, add flour, and stir for 2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk, blending with a whisk, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Remove the sauce from heat. Mix in diced ham, crumbled bacon, remaining butter, and chopped green pepper.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the cabbage in the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle crumbled saltine crackers over the top and pour the white sauce evenly.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes until light brown and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the white sauce. If you don't have ham, diced cooked chicken or turkey can work well as a substitute. Use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free option. Make sure to steam the cabbage just until tender to maintain a nice texture in the final dish.
Serving Suggestions
This scalloped cabbage dish makes an excellent side for grilled meats or roasted chicken, pairing particularly well with Pork recipes. Serve it alongside a fresh Lettuce And Pea Salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Cabbages contains roughly 239 calories, with 6g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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 cabbage?
Yes, you can substitute green cabbage with savoy or Napa cabbage for a different texture and flavor. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the variety used.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ham and bacon, and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or additional vegetables like zucchini or carrots for added flavor and texture. You can also use vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free option.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance by assembling it and storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it is heated through.
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).