Virginia'S Cabbage Casserole
Virginia's Cabbage Casserole is a comforting dish featuring tender cabbage, creamy mushroom soup, melted American cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cabbage in boiling salted water until tender; drain thoroughly.
- In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion in 5 tablespoons margarine until tender.
- Add undiluted cream of mushroom soup and mix well.
- Add American cheese; heat and stir until melted.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cooked cabbage.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Brown 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs in 1 tablespoon margarine.
- Sprinkle browned bread crumbs on top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful casserole, consider adding spices like paprika or garlic powder. You can substitute the American cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for a different taste. If you prefer a healthier option, try using olive oil instead of margarine. Remember to drain the cabbage thoroughly to prevent excess moisture, which can make the casserole soggy.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It also makes a great side dish for holiday gatherings. Consider serving with a refreshing drink, like iced tea or lemonade, to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Virginia'S Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 258 calories, with 3g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1241mg per serving (54% 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 in this casserole?
Absolutely! While American cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor or mozzarella for creaminess. Just be sure to adjust the melting time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Can I add protein to this cabbage casserole?
Certainly! For a more filling dish, consider adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or even shredded chicken to the mixture before baking. This can enhance the flavor and make it a complete meal.
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).