Description
Cabbage casserole is a beloved comfort food that combines tender cabbage with a creamy, savory sauce, topped with a crispy, cheesy layer. This Cabbage Casserole recipe is simple yet satisfying, making it a perfect addition to your dinner rotation. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side dish or a comforting main course, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 small head green cabbage
- 1 medium Vidalia onion, chopped
- 8 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (10-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
Topping:
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), coarsely crushed
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Cabbage:
Coarsely chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Melt 8 tablespoons of butter in a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage and onion to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes or until the cabbage is partially cooked down and tender.
3. Season the Cabbage:
Season the cabbage mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Transfer the cooked cabbage and onion mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.
5. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken or mushroom soup with the mayonnaise. Stir until well mixed. Spread this mixture evenly over the cabbage in the baking dish.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In another bowl, stir together the melted butter, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and crushed Ritz crackers. This mixture will create a deliciously crispy topping for the casserole.
7. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the cheese and cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
- Portion Control: Use a sharp spatula to serve even portions. This ensures each serving gets a good amount of both the cabbage mixture and crispy topping.
- Pairing Suggestions: This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. It also complements a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to grilled chicken.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the casserole is fully cooled before transferring it to the container to prevent moisture buildup.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven to maintain the crispy topping. Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent burning, and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. For a crispy topping, uncover during the last 5 minutes of reheating.
- Freezing: If you need to freeze the casserole, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, or until heated through.
- Avoiding Sogginess: To prevent excess moisture, ensure the cabbage is well-drained before baking, and avoid overcooking the cabbage during the initial sauté.
Additional Tips:
- Individual Portions: For convenient serving, consider freezing individual portions. This allows you to easily reheat only what you need.
- Flavor Revitalization: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of salt and pepper after reheating to refresh the flavors.
