Cabbage might sеem plain , but it’s full of good stuff and can be used in so many ways . It’s packed with vitamins and minerals , yet it’s low in calories . That makes it a smart pick for lots of meals around the world . Its crunchy feаture and mild taste let it mix well with meat , grains , or other veggies . You can toss it in salads , soups , or roast it — the choices don’t end .
When you think of homey dinners , casseroles rule . These baked dishes fills your belly and makes the house smell awesome . They mix veggies , meat , and cheese into one pan so you don’t need to cook a bunch of pots . Putting it all together is easy , and the golden top is always a hit . People love to serve them at potlucks , on weeknights , or when family comes around .
Among all the casserole ideas , cabbage casserole really pops because it’s both good for you and tastes great . More and more people at home are trying new ways to cook cаbbаge in a casserole . Now you can find recipes for meat lovers , vegetarians , or folks on low carb diets . So whether you want cheesy comfort or a meaty dish , there’s a cabbage casserole out there for you .
Benefits of Cabbage
Cаbbаge is more than a side dish ; it’s loaded with nutrients that help keep you healthy . It has very few calories but tons of fiber , so you feel full longer . You’ll get a lot of vitamin C , vitamin K , and vitamin B6 — they help your defenses , your bones , and your energy .
Plus , cabbage may lower inflammation and support a healthy heart . Its antioxidants fight off stress in your cells . Eat it regular and your gut and heart will thank you .
Different countries love cabbage too . In Eastern Europe it’s turned into sauerkraut , which gives a nice tang . In Asia it goes into stir-fries and dumplings . In the US you see it in coleslaw or stuffed rolls . It fits almost any kitchen .
It’s also cheap and easy to find all year . Buying cabbage won’t break your wallet and you can grab it fresh in any season .
Cabbage Casserole Essentials
To make a good cabbage casserole , you need the right stuff and a bit of method . You start with cabbage — green , red , or savoy give different textures . Then pick your protein , like ground beef , turkey , or tofu if you want vegetаrian . Add grains like rice , quinoa , or noodles for heft . Don’t forget cheese , sour cream , or other dairy for creaminess .
Layering is key : put cabbage , then your meat or veggie mix , then grains . Season with salt , pepper , and herbs . Bake at the right temp so the top gets golden and bubbly . Stick to baking times and you won’t end up with soggy cаbbаge .
Once you know the basics , feel free to get creative . Change spices , swap meats , or use different grains . Each casserole can turn out fresh and tasty .
Popular Cabbage Casserole Recipes
1. Classic Cabbage Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- Spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder)
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) . In a large pan , sauté the chopped onion until it looks see-through . Add ground beef and cook until it’s browned . Drain fat if needed . In a big bowl , mix rice , diced tomatoes , and spices . In your casserole dish , layer half of the cabbage , then the beef mix , then the rest of the cabbage . Top with cheese . Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes . Take off the foil and bake another 15 minutes until cheese is melted and slightly brown .
Cooking Tips:
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef . Throw in some zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients .
2. Vegetarian Cabbage Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can black beans, rinsed
- 1 cup cheese or feta
- 1 cup cooked grains (quinoa or rice)
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) . In a pan , cook mushrooms and bell pepper until soft . In a bowl , mix those with beans , cheese , and grains . Layer half the cabbage in the dish , add the veggie mix , then the rest of the cabbage . Bake for 45 minutes or until cabbage is tender .
Cooking Tips:
For a vegan version , replace cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute . You can also add more vegetables like carrots or spinach to boost the nutrition .
3. Cheesy Cabbage and Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- Herbs (thyme, basil)
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) . In a bowl , mix chicken with mushroom soup and herbs . In a greased casserole dish , layer half the cabbage , then the chicken mix , then the rest of the cabbage . Sprinkle cheese on top . Bake for 30–40 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling .
Cooking Tips:
You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal . Throw in bacon bits if you want more flavor .
4. Asian-Inspired Cabbage Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground pork or beef
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) . In a pan , cook pork or beef until browned . Stir in soy sauce , ginger , and sesame oil . In a casserole dish , layer half the cabbage , then meat mix , then rice , then the rest of the cabbage . Bake for 40–45 minutes or until cabbage is soft .
Cooking Tips:
Add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick or toss in water chestnuts for extra crunch .
5. Low-Carb Cabbage Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup cheese, shredded
- 4 eggs, beaten
- 1 lb ground turkey
- Spices (salt, pepper, onion powder)
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) . In a pan , brown turkey with spices . In a bowl , mix turkey , cabbage , cheese , and eggs . Pour into a greased dish . Bake 30–35 minutes until set and golden .
Cooking Tips:
Try different cheeses or add herbs like oregano and parsley for more flavor .
Cabbage Casserole Storage Tips
Refrigeration Guidance:
Let leftovers cool completely . Put in an airtight container and keep in the fridge . Eat within 3–4 days for best taste .
Freezing Instructions:
Cool casserole first . Wrap tight in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn . Freeze up to 3 months . Thaw in fridge overnight and reheat in oven at 350°F until hot .
FAQs
What’s the best way to prepare cabbage for casserole?
Cut out the core and chop into bite-size pieces . You can sauté it a bit if you want it softer , or use it raw for crunch .
Can you make cabbage casserole ahead of time?
Yes , you can put it together a day early . Cover and keep in the fridge , then bake when you’re ready .
How long does cabbage casserole last in the fridge?
It stays good for 3–4 days if sealed in an airtight container .
Is cabbage casserole healthy?
Yes , especially if you choose lean meats , whole grains , and lots of veggies . It’s high in fiber and low in calories .
What are some variations for cabbage casserole?
You can swap proteins , add different veggies , or use grains like quinoa or cauliflower rice to match your diet .
Conclusion
Try out these cabbage casserole ideas and see which one becomes your new favorite . Mix and match ingredients to fit your taste , and don’t forget to share how it turned out .
cabbage casserole recipes
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 skillet
- 1 baking dish (9x13 inches)
- 1 aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 large head cabbage About 2-3 pounds.
- 1 pound ground beef or sausage
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 cup cooked rice White or brown.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the core from the cabbage and cut it into quarters. Boil a large pot of water and add the cabbage quarters. Blanch for about 5-7 minutes until slightly tender. Remove and let cool. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the ground beef or sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cooked rice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the chopped cabbage. Spread half of the meat mixture over the cabbage, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, meat mixture, and top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
