If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful, and irresistibly cheesy dish to add to your dinner table, this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines tender cabbage and sweet onions sautéed to perfection, then baked under a golden, gooey cheddar cheese topping that makes every bite a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or a casual gathering, this casserole strikes that perfect balance of rich, creamy, and savory flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients that pack a punch is what makes this casserole stand out. Each component plays a crucial role—from the crunchy, fresh cabbage and sweet Vidalia onions to the luscious creaminess brought by the soup and mayonnaise, finished off with sharp cheddar cheese for that perfect cheesy crust.
- 1 small green cabbage, chopped: Provides the fresh, crisp base and hearty bulk for the casserole.
- 1 medium Vidalia onion, chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor that mellows beautifully when cooked.
- 8 tbsp butter: Used to sauté the vegetables, ensuring they’re soft and flavorful with a rich buttery undertone.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient without overpowering the dish.
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken or mushroom soup: Gives the casserole a creamy, savory consistency that binds everything together.
- â…“ cup mayonnaise: Adds extra creaminess and a slight tanginess to balance the cheese and soup.
- 3 tbsp melted butter (for topping): Helps create a luscious, golden layer when mixed with cheese and baked.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for that irresistible cheesy top that gets bubbly and golden.
How to Make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish to keep your casserole from sticking and ensure an easy cleanup. This simple step sets the stage for your delicious creation.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pan over medium heat, melt 8 tablespoons of butter until shimmering. Add the chopped cabbage and Vidalia onion, stirring occasionally. Cook this mixture for about 8 to 10 minutes until the cabbage softens and the onions release their natural sweetness. Season with salt and pepper to bring out the flavors even more.
Step 3: Layer the Cabbage in the Baking Dish
Once the vegetables are perfectly sautéed, transfer them evenly into your greased baking dish. This warm, fragrant base is ready for the creamy layer that will take this dish to the next level.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Topping
In a small bowl, combine the cream of chicken or mushroom soup with mayonnaise. Stir until smooth, then spread this luscious mixture evenly over the cabbage and onions in the baking dish. This creamy layer adds richness and helps everything meld brilliantly together.
Step 5: Add the Cheesy Butter Topping
Mix the melted butter and shredded sharp cheddar cheese in a small bowl. Sprinkle this cheesy buttery mixture evenly across the top of the casserole. This topping will melt and brown into a bubbly, golden crust that makes the whole dish unbelievably inviting.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake it for 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for the bubbly, golden-brown top that signals it’s ready. Once baked, allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to let all the flavors settle.
How to Serve Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can brighten the rich flavors of the casserole. Consider a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness that complements the cheesy goodness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted or grilled meats, such as chicken or pork. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some warm crusty bread to round out the meal with complementary textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and family-friendly presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. This adds a touch of cozy charm and makes each serving feel extra special. Alternatively, layer the casserole with breadcrumbs mixed with a little cheese on top for an added crispy texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from the Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld wonderfully overnight, making seconds even better than the first serving.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, prepare everything except the cheese topping, then cover tightly. After baking, cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese topping regains some crispness, about 15-20 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave in individual portions, though the crust will be less crispy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic for its bold flavor and great melting quality, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky Gouda to give this casserole a new twist.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make it vegetarian by opting for cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. The dish remains just as creamy and delicious without sacrificing any of the comforting flavors.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Adding diced bell peppers, carrots, or even some mushrooms can add extra texture, color, and nutrition. Just be sure to sauté them along with the cabbage and onions until tender before layering.
How do I make the casserole gluten-free?
To ensure the dish is gluten-free, choose a cream of chicken or mushroom soup that is labeled gluten-free, as some store-bought soups contain gluten as a thickener. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance for a party?
Yes! You can prepare the entire casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and keep it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, bake it according to the recipe instructions. This makes party prep so much easier and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace on a plate—comforting, cheesy, and satisfying. It’s wonderfully simple to make and uses everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. I can’t recommend it enough as a weeknight meal or a cozy side dish. Give it a try soon, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes for sharing good food and great memories.
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Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and cheesy cabbage casserole featuring sautéed cabbage and onions combined with creamy soup and mayonnaise, topped with a cheesy buttery crust, then baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make dish serves as a hearty side or a satisfying vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 small green cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium Vidalia onion, chopped
- 8 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken or mushroom soup
- â…“ cup mayonnaise
Topping
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté vegetables: In a large pan over medium heat, melt 8 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped cabbage and onion, sautéing for 8–10 minutes while stirring frequently until the cabbage softens. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Transfer to baking dish: Once the cabbage and onion are softened, transfer the sautéed mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare creamy layer: In a separate bowl, mix the cream of chicken (or mushroom) soup with the mayonnaise until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the cabbage and onion in the baking dish.
- Make cheesy topping: In a small bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of melted butter with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a rich, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving, letting the flavors set and making it easier to slice.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Adjust seasoning according to preference, adding garlic powder or herbs like thyme if desired.
- This casserole pairs well with roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a standalone side dish.
- For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat mayonnaise and cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
