If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy dish but want to keep it low-carb, look no further than Cheesy Cabbage Casserole. This hearty casserole is the perfect combination of tender cabbage, melty cheese, and savoury flavours that will warm you up without the added carbs.
Whether you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, or simply want a delicious side dish to accompany your meal, Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is sure to become a family favourite. Let’s dive into how to make this simple yet flavour-packed dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a Must-Try
Cabbage may not always be the first vegetable that comes to mind when thinking about comfort food, but this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole will change that. Here’s why it should be on your table:
Low-Carb, High-Taste
This casserole is a great alternative to higher-carb sides like mashed potatoes or pasta dishes. By using cabbage as the base and adding rich, creamy cheese, you can enjoy all the comforting flavours you love, without the extra carbs. It’s perfect for anyone on a keto, low-carb, or even gluten-free diet.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavour
One of the best parts about Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is how simple it is to make. You only need a handful of ingredients to create a dish that’s loaded with flavour and texture. From the creaminess of the cheese to the natural sweetness of the cabbage, every bite is satisfying.
Perfect as a Side or Main Dish
This casserole can be enjoyed as a side dish, but it’s hearty enough to be the main event. Add some protein, like grilled chicken or sausage, and you’ve got yourself a complete meal. Plus, it’s an excellent way to get more vegetables into your diet in a tasty way!
What You Need to Make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
Before you begin preparing this dish, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabbage (Shredded) | 4 cups | Fresh cabbage, shredded into thin strips |
| Cream Cheese (Softened) | 8 oz (226g) | Adds richness and creaminess to the casserole |
| Cheddar Cheese (Shredded) | 1½ cups | Full-fat, shredded cheddar cheese |
| Sour Cream | ½ cup | Adds tang and creaminess |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | For sautéing and flavour |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp | For extra savoury flavour |
| Onion Powder | ½ tsp | Enhances the flavour of the cabbage |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | For seasoning |
| Bacon (Optional) | 3 slices | Adds a smoky flavour, optional but delicious |
| Baking Dish | 1 (9×9 or similar) | For baking the casserole |
Necessary Tools
- Shredding tool: A knife or food processor for shredding the cabbage.
- Large pan: To sauté the cabbage.
- Baking dish: To assemble and bake the casserole.
- Mixing spoon: For combining the ingredients.
- Oven: For baking the casserole.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get started on preparing this delicious Cheesy Cabbage Casserole. Follow these easy steps to make the perfect dish.
Prepare the Cabbage
- Shred the Cabbage: Begin by shredding the cabbage into thin strips. You can use a knife, mandoline, or food processor to make this process quicker. Set the shredded cabbage aside.
- Sauté the Cabbage: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shredded cabbage and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage starts to soften. You want the cabbage to be tender but still have some texture.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- Combine the Cream Cheese, Sour Cream, and Cheddar: In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Season: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to incorporate the seasonings evenly into the cheese mixture.
Assemble the Casserole
- Combine the Cabbage and Cheese: Once the cabbage is tender, remove it from the heat and add it to the cheese mixture. Stir everything together until the cabbage is well-coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Optional: Add Bacon: If you’re using bacon, chop the cooked bacon into small pieces and mix it into the casserole for an extra layer of flavour. The bacon will add a delicious smoky crunch that complements the creamy cabbage perfectly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the cabbage and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish (9×9 or similar size works well). Spread it out evenly in the dish.
Bake the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Cool and Serve: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavours meld together and make it easier to serve.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Cabbage Casserole Every Time
To make sure your Cheesy Cabbage Casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:
Don’t Overcook the Cabbage
When sautéing the cabbage, keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. You want the cabbage to soften, but still retain some texture. Overcooked cabbage can become too mushy and may not hold up well in the casserole.
Use Full-Fat Cheese and Cream Cheese
For the best flavour and texture, opt for full-fat cream cheese and cheddar cheese. These ingredients give the casserole a rich, creamy texture and enhance the overall taste.
Add Extra Veggies
If you want to make this dish even more nutritious, consider adding extra vegetables. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be easily incorporated into the casserole for added flavour and colour.
Variations of Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
While this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to make it your own:
Add Ground Meat
For a heartier meal, you can add cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage to the casserole. Simply cook the meat and mix it with the cabbage and cheese before baking.
Make It Spicy
If you like a little heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the casserole for a spicy kick.
Top with Crispy Onions
For an extra crunch, top the casserole with crispy fried onions before baking. This adds a delightful texture contrast and elevates the flavour.
Health Benefits of Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
Not only is Cheesy Cabbage Casserole incredibly delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits, especially for those following a low-carb or keto diet:
Rich in Fibre
Cabbage is a great source of fibre, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full. Adding cabbage to your diet is an easy way to boost your fibre intake.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly
This casserole is low in carbs, making it perfect for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet. By using cabbage as the base and a sugar-free creamy sauce, you can enjoy a comfort food classic without derailing your diet.
Packed with Nutrients
Cabbage is full of essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. These nutrients help support your immune system, maintain heart health, and promote overall wellness.
FAQs About Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
Can I make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before baking, or increase the baking time by a few minutes if baking from cold.
Can I freeze Cheesy Cabbage Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist. Each cheese will bring its own flavour profile to the dish.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a comforting, low-carb dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a new side dish, or craving a cheesy, vegetable-packed meal, this casserole is a winner. With its rich flavour, creamy texture, and easy preparation, it’s a dish that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Call-to-Action: Ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy, and low-carb dish? Try making Cheesy Cabbage Casserole today and let us know how it turned out! Share your favourite variations and tips for the perfect casserole in the comments!