Cabbage casserole is a comforting dish that brings together tender cabbage, a creamy sauce, and a crunchy, cheesy topping. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Here’s how you can make it:
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
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
Topping:
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), coarsely crushed
Directions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Prepare the Cabbage Mixture: Coarsely chop the cabbage. In a large nonstick pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage and onion, cooking for about 8 to 10 minutes while stirring frequently until the cabbage is partially softened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the cabbage and onion mixture into the prepared casserole dish. In a small bowl, mix the condensed soup and mayonnaise together until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the cabbage layer.
- Add the Topping: In another bowl, combine the melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and crushed Ritz crackers. Sprinkle this topping mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, crunchy, and utterly delicious cabbage casserole!
Variations:
- Meaty Addition: For a heartier casserole, add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken to the cabbage mixture before baking. This turns it into a complete meal with added protein.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup to keep the dish vegetarian-friendly. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or other veggies like bell peppers or carrots.
- Spicy Twist: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the cabbage and onion mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier flavor.
- Healthier Topping: Swap out the Ritz crackers for whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed whole grain crackers for a healthier topping. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs and ensure the condensed soup is gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Yes! While green cabbage is commonly used, you can experiment with Savoy or Napa cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly.
2. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
3. What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?
No problem! You can use any buttery cracker, breadcrumbs, or even crushed cornflakes as a substitute. Each will add a slightly different texture to the topping.
4. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option. To keep the topping crispy, reheat in the oven.
5. Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
6. What side dishes go well with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with simple sides like a green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. If you added protein to the dish, it could also be served alongside mashed potatoes or rice.
This cabbage casserole recipe is versatile, allowing for plenty of variations to suit your taste and dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the suggested variations, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!
