Embrace the comfort and elegance of classic cabbage casserole with a refined twist from Chef Crenn. This dish transforms humble ingredients into a visually stunning, feel-good creation that’s simple to make yet bursting with flavor. Savor the warmth and nostalgia of a beloved comfort food, elevated to new heights of culinary artistry.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Casserole Recipes
Cabbage casserole is a timeless comfort food that often gets overlooked, but in the hands of Chef Crenn, it becomes a decadent, gourmet delight. This recipe combines the heartwarming flavors of tender cabbage, savory ground meat, and a creamy, dreamy sauce, all baked to perfection. The result is a cozy, satisfying dish that’s both visually stunning and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or a show-stopping side, this cabbage casserole will become a new favorite.
Ingredients
At the heart of this recipe are a few essential, high-quality ingredients that come together to create something truly remarkable. You’ll need cabbage, ground meat (such as beef or turkey), onions, garlic, a creamy sauce base, and a blend of aromatic spices to bring it all to life. With a touch of elegance and a focus on wholesome, feel-good flavors, this cabbage casserole is sure to delight.
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded or thinly sliced – a versatile vegetable that lends heartiness and sweetness.
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey – the protein that provides a savory foundation.
- 1 onion, diced – adds depth and aroma.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup creamy sauce base (e.g., condensed cream of mushroom or chicken soup) – creates a luscious, indulgent texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground Meat: Swap the beef or turkey for plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian or vegan version.
- Creamy Sauce: Use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese in place of the traditional cream-based sauce for a lighter, tangier twist.
How to Make Cabbage Casserole Recipes
Crafting this cabbage casserole is a straightforward process that yields delightfully comforting results. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s both visually stunning and bursting with flavor.
Step 1 — Prep Work
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gathering all your ingredients. Shred or thinly slice the cabbage, chop the onions and garlic, and measure out the remaining components. This organizational step will ensure a smooth cooking process.
Step 2 — Main Cooking Process
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, sauté the onions and garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the ground meat and brown it, breaking it up as it cooks, for an additional 5-7 minutes. Once the meat is cooked through, stir in the shredded cabbage and let it wilt down, infusing the meat and onions with its earthy, slightly sweet flavor.
Step 3 — Final Steps/Assembly
Once the cabbage has softened, it’s time to create the creamy, luscious sauce that will tie this dish together. Whisk together the condensed soup, milk, and seasonings, then pour the mixture over the cabbage-meat combination, stirring to coat everything evenly. Transfer the casserole to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 4 — Finishing Touches
As the cabbage casserole emerges from the oven, give it a final flourish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of a tangy sour cream-based sauce. This elevated touch will make your creation truly shine and delight the senses.
Chef Tips & Variations
- Seasoning Blend: Experiment with different spice combinations, such as a pinch of caraway seeds, a dash of smoked paprika, or a sprinkle of dried thyme, to add your own unique flair.
- Cheese Topping: For an extra indulgent twist, top the casserole with a layer of shredded cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan cheese before baking.
- Veggie-Forward: Incorporate additional diced vegetables, like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini, for a more robust, nutrient-dense dish.
- Bread Crumb Topping: For a crispy, golden crust, sprinkle the top of the casserole with seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Warm, crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted potatoes for a complete, comforting meal.
Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The casserole also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Reheat: To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Make-Ahead: This cabbage casserole can be assembled in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting with a chilled dish.
Nutrition Information
This cabbage casserole recipe is a healthier take on a classic comfort food, packing in valuable nutrients while still delivering the satisfying flavors you crave. With a balance of lean protein, fiber-rich cabbage, and a creamy, yet not overly indulgent sauce, this dish can be a part of a well-rounded, nourishing meal.
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbs: 18 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Sodium: 560 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the ground beef or turkey with ground chicken, pork, or even plant-based protein crumbles for a vegetarian or vegan version.
How can I make this dish more keto-friendly?
To lower the carb content, you can reduce the amount of cabbage and use a higher ratio of ground meat. Additionally, swap the regular sauce ingredients for a creamy, keto-approved alternative, such as a béchamel sauce made with full-fat dairy.
Can I assemble this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this cabbage casserole is a great make-ahead dish. Prepare the filling, assemble the casserole, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a chilled dish.
How can I make this dish more visually appealing?
To elevate the presentation, try layering the cabbage and meat mixture in the baking dish, creating a beautiful, lasagna-like effect. You can also top the casserole with sliced tomatoes, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of grated cheese for a gourmet touch.
Can I freeze this cabbage casserole?
Absolutely! Cabbage casserole freezes beautifully. Simply allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Try These Next
- Sheet Pan Casseroles
- Pancake Soup My Journey Recipes And Cooking Insights
- Pancake Soup My Journey Recipes And Cooking Insights
Delicious Cabbage Casserole Recipes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cabbage Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
2 cups cooked ground beef
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped cabbage, ground beef, diced tomatoes, rice, and beef broth.
3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.
Feel free to add your favorite spices for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Sheet Pan & Casseroles
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg