Grandma's Cozy Cabbage Casserole (Elevated!)
Grandma S Cozy Cabbage Casserole Elevated
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 350 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Recipe Introduction: Cozy Up with Grandma's Cabbage Casserole
Ever find yourself staring at a head of cabbage , wondering "what can you make with cabbage?!" i have! let's talk about cabbage casserole .
This ain't your nan's boiled cabbage and cheese casserole .
A Touch of Home
My grandma, bless her heart, used to whip up the most comforting dishes. This recipe? It's my homage to her, but with a modern twist. Think Southern comfort food meets British sensibility.
A Hearty Classic Reimagined
Originating from humble roots, cabbage casserole is the ultimate comfort food. think of it as a hug in a dish.
It's easy, taking about an hour from start to finish. this recipe serves 6-8 hungry souls. perfect for a sunday dinner or a potluck where you want to impress.
More Than Just Cabbage
Honestly, the main benefit is that it's ridiculously tasty! but it's also surprisingly nutritious. that cabbage is packed with vitamin c! this cheesy cabbage casserole recipes is special because it turns a simple ingredient into something extraordinary.
Plus, that cabbage casserole with corn flakes topping? forget about it!.
Ready to make some magic? Let's gather our ingredients and get started!
Alright then, let's tackle this cabbage casserole like a proper sunday roast with attention to detail and a good bit of heart! you know, some people turn their noses up at cabbage, but honestly, when done right, it's pure comfort food.
Think of it as the underdog of the veggie world, just waiting for its chance to shine. and shine it will, in this cheesy cabbage casserole recipes that's gonna knock your socks off.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!
So, what are we slinging together? We're making a Fried Cabbage Casserole that even your fussy eaters will love. Promise! Here's the lowdown:
Main Ingredients
- Green cabbage: 1 medium head ( about 2 pounds / 900g ), shredded. Go for firm, heavy cabbages with tightly packed leaves. Soggy leaves? Avoid!
- Onion: 1 medium ( about 8 ounces / 225g ), chopped. Yellow or white, your call.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons ( 28g ) for sautéing. Real butter, always! Margarine is a sin.
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon.
- Onion powder: ½ teaspoon.
- Salt and pepper: To taste. Be generous.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons ( 56g ) for the sauce.
- Flour: 4 tablespoons ( 30g ). All-purpose, plain flour, whatever you call it.
- Milk: 2 cups ( 475ml ). Whole milk makes it richer, but any will do.
- Sour cream: 1 cup ( 8 ounces / 225g ). Full fat for the win.
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup ( 4 ounces / 115g ), shredded. Sharp cheddar is my go-to, but mild works too.
- Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon, ground.
- Panko breadcrumbs: 1 cup ( 60g ). Panko is key for that crunch.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons ( 28g ), melted, for the topping.
- Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup ( 20g ), grated.
- Paprika: Pinch, for color.
Seasoning Notes
Okay, so let's talk flavour, shall we? the garlic and onion powder are essential here they give that classic cabbage and cheese casserole vibe.
Nutmeg in the sauce adds a warmth you won't believe. for a bit of a kick, try a pinch of cayenne pepper.
If you're feeling adventurous, worcestershire sauce adds a lovely savoury depth. don't have nutmeg? a tiny pinch of ground cloves will do in a pinch.
Want to switch it up? try a cabbage mac and cheese twist by adding a dash of mustard powder to the sauce.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or Dutch oven. I use my trusty Le Creuset.
- 9x13 inch baking dish. Glass, ceramic, whatever you have.
- Mixing bowls. For sauces.
No need for fancy gadgets here. A decent knife and a good frying pan are your best mates. Don't have a 9x13 inch dish? Two smaller ones will do the trick.
Honestly, this cabbage casserole with corn flakes ... oh, sorry, got carried away thinking about a different version! what i wanted to say is that the ingredients in the original cabbage casserole are so easy that you could make it by memory.
Alright, let’s get stuck in to this cabbage casserole adventure. i'm telling you, this isn't your nan's soggy cabbage dish.
This is grandma's cozy cabbage casserole (elevated!) . honestly, i used to turn my nose up at cabbage, but this recipe? game changer! we are talking a comforting hug in a dish.
Getting Your Ducks in a Row: Prep Steps
Right, first things first, essential mise en place . this basically means getting all your bits and bobs ready before you even think about turning on the hob.
We're talking about shredding that cabbage , and chopping the onion, grating cheese. it’s all about having everything at your fingertips.
Now, for some time saving organization tips : chop the cabbage and onion while the oven is preheating. honestly, it makes things so much smoother.
And remember, safety first. keep those fingers tucked away when you're wielding that knife.
Let’s Cook: Step-by-Step
- Sauté the Aromatics. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Then, chuck in the shredded cabbage and cook, stirring now and then, until it wilts a bit (about 8- 10 minutes ). Season with garlic and onion powder , salt, and pepper. Set it aside.
- Whip Up the Sauce. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1- 2 minutes to make a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk until smooth. Simmer until thick, about 5 minutes , stirring constantly.
- Make it Cheesy. Take the pan off the heat. Stir in 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese , and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Mix It All Together. Add the cabbage mixture to the creamy, cheesy sauce. Give it a good mix to combine. Pour it into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Crispy Topping Time. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan , and a pinch of paprika. Sprinkle it evenly over the cabbage mixture.
- Bake 'Til Golden. Bake in a preheated oven at 350° F ( 175° C) for 30- 40 minutes , until it's golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve. Let it stand for about 10 minutes before serving. This lets the sauce thicken a bit.
Pro Tips: Elevate Your Cabbage Game
Honestly, the secret weapon? don’t overcook the cabbage! you want it to have a bit of bite, not be mushy.
For extra crispy topping, toast the panko breadcrumbs in a dry pan before mixing with the butter and cheese. watch them carefully, as they burn in a flash.
One of the common mistakes to avoid is skimping on the cheese. you really need that cheddar to get that lovely cheesy cabbage casserole feel.
Also, make ahead? you can totally prep this ahead of time! just assemble the cabbage and cheese casserole , cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Add the topping just before baking.
Thinking what can you make with cabbage besides the fried cabbage casserole or maybe the cabbage mac and cheese , perhaps the cabbage broccoli recipes ? i suggest try making coleslaw for a fresher alternative.
Serve it with some salad. it's a good side dish for grilled chicken or fish, or maybe just on its own.
The possibilities are endless.
So, there you have it. a proper cabbage casserole with corn flakes alternative with panko breadcrumbs that's easy to make.
Enjoy, and don’t forget to give it a good dollop of something tasty on the side! you could even add some ham to make cabbage and ham casserole .
Now that sounds delicious.
Alright then, let's dive into those extra bits and bobs for the perfect cabbage casserole . Think of these as your cheat codes to casserole glory!
Recipe Notes: Your Casserole Cheat Sheet
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
Presentation matters, innit? i like to serve my cabbage casserole straight from the baking dish. a dollop of sour cream? oh my gosh, yes! a sprinkle of fresh parsley? adds a touch of fancy.
For sides, keep it simple. roasted chicken or pork works wonders. a crisp salad cuts through the richness. honestly, cabbage and cheese casserole is a star on its own.
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Leftover fried cabbage casserole ? winner! pop it in an airtight container. into the fridge it goes for up to 3 days.
Freezing? yeah, you can! but the texture might change a bit. when reheating, low and slow is the way. this helps avoid dry-out.
You know, a little splash of milk can revive it nicely.
Variations: Mix it Up, Mate!
Feeling adventurous? add some crispy bacon bits. cabbage broccoli recipes are fab too, chuck in some florets! need a dietary tweak? go for a cheesy cabbage casserole recipe with low-fat cheese.
Wanna try dairy free? there are great non dairy alternatives now. change is good, innit?
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
What can you make with cabbage ? loads of healthy stuff! cabbage is packed with vitamins. this casserole's got protein from the cheese.
Fibre from the cabbage. do bear in mind it's got calories from the cheese and butter. but hey, everything in moderation!
So there you have it. all my secrets for a top-notch cabbage casserole . this recipe using cabbage with corn flakes makes a wonderful addition to the cabbage and ham casserole , if you have any cooked ham.
If you're looking for more ideas for what to make with a head of cabbage , why not try my cabbage mac and cheese recipe? give it a go and let me know what you think.
Happy cooking, love!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cabbage casserole ahead of time? Like, Mary Berry levels of prepared?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, including the topping, a day ahead of time. Just cover it tightly with cling film and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.
Think of it as your secret weapon for a stress free Sunday lunch!
What's the best way to store leftover cabbage casserole, and how long will it last? I don't want it going off like a dodgy prawn sandwich.
To keep your leftover cabbage casserole fresh, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge, where it will happily keep for 3-4 days. When reheating, you can use the microwave or oven. For the oven, add a splash of milk to keep it moist.
If you don't eat it in 4 days, you'll know why.
Can I freeze cabbage casserole? Thinking of batch cooking like a proper domestic goddess.
You certainly can! For best results, freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble everything as instructed, but don't add the breadcrumb topping yet. Wrap it tightly in a double layer of cling film and then foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake as directed, adding extra baking time as needed.
I'm trying to be a bit healthier are there any lighter substitutions I can make to this cabbage casserole recipe without sacrificing flavour?
Good on you for trying to keep it healthy. There are definitely some swaps you can make. Use low-fat or skimmed milk instead of whole milk in the sauce, and try plain Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. You could also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower fat cheese variety.
And consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs for the topping for added fibre.
My cabbage casserole is a bit bland. How can I jazz it up and give it a proper flavour boost?
Right then, let's add some zing! A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce will add some heat. You could also sauté some chopped bacon or pancetta with the onions for a smoky flavour.
And don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning cabbage can be a bit of a sponge, so don't be shy with the salt and pepper. Get some flavour in it!
What can I add to my cabbage casserole to make it a more complete meal?
To make this casserole a full meal, consider adding some cooked protein. Cooked and crumbled sausage, shredded chicken, or even some cubed ham would be great additions. For a vegetarian option, try adding some cannellini beans or lentils.
You could also add some other vegetables like sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrients and flavour.
