Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this easy scalloped cabbage! This dish is a real game-changer for anyone who thinks cabbage is boring. Trust me, when you combine tender cabbage with creamy, cheesy goodness, it transforms into something truly special. I remember the first time I tried it; I couldn’t believe how deliciously comforting it was! It’s perfect for those nights when you want something warm and satisfying as a side dish, but you don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone complaining! So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up this delightful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients List
Gathering the ingredients for this easy scalloped cabbage is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped: Make sure to remove any tough outer leaves before chopping. You want tender pieces that will cook evenly.
- 2 cups of shredded cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix it up with your favorite cheese! Just remember, the more cheese, the creamier it gets.
- 1 cup of heavy cream: This is what makes the dish so rich and luscious. Don’t skimp on this – you’ll thank me later!
- 1 cup of milk: Whole milk works best for that creamy texture, but you can use any milk you have on hand.
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs: These add a lovely crunchy topping. I prefer plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, but panko can give an extra crunch!
- 1 tablespoon of butter: Just a little bit to dot on top for that golden finish. Yum!
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder: This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add more!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season this dish well; it really brings out all the flavors!
Once you’ve got all these goodies ready, you’ll be just a few steps away from a mouthwatering side dish that everyone will love!
How to Prepare Easy Scalloped Cabbage
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Cabbage
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your scalloped cabbage cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden top! While your oven is heating up, grab your cabbage and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about making them perfect; just aim for uniformity so they cook at the same rate. Once chopped, bring a large pot of water to a boil, and add the cabbage. Let it boil for just 5 minutes—this softens it up beautifully! After that, drain the cabbage well and set it aside. You want to remove excess water so your dish doesn’t get soggy. Easy peasy!
Mix the Cream and Seasonings
Now, let’s whip up that creamy goodness! In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. I like to start with about ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper and adjust from there, depending on your taste. Use a whisk to blend everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy mixture is what makes our scalloped cabbage so dreamy! Just picture that rich sauce melding with the cabbage—yum! Once mixed, set it aside and let those flavors mingle a bit while we get ready to layer.
Layering the Cabbage Dish
Alright, let’s get layering! Grab a baking dish and start with half of your cooked cabbage at the bottom. Spread it out evenly; this will be the first layer. Next, pour half of your creamy mixture over the cabbage, making sure to cover it well. Now, it’s time for the cheese! Sprinkle half of your shredded cheese on top of the cream layer. You’re going to want to savor this moment because it’s going to be cheesy perfection! Repeat these layers again: another half of the remaining cabbage, then the rest of the cream mixture, followed by the remaining cheese. Now for the finishing touch! Top it all off with ½ cup of breadcrumbs and dot with 1 tablespoon of butter for that crispy, golden finish. Trust me, this is what takes it over the top! Now it’s ready to bake!
Baking Instructions
Now comes the exciting part—baking it to delicious perfection! Place your assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it as it bakes. Look for that beautiful bubbly surface and a lovely golden-brown crust on top. If it’s not quite there after 30 minutes, don’t hesitate to leave it in for a few more minutes. Just be careful not to let it burn! Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps everything set a bit, and your patience will be rewarded with a warm, comforting dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
Making easy scalloped cabbage is a breeze, but here are some handy tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Remember, we only want to blanch the cabbage for about 5 minutes. Overcooking can lead to mushiness, and we definitely want that lovely texture!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage, cheese, and dairy make a world of difference in flavor. If you can, avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often has anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
- Layer Evenly: When layering, make sure to spread the cabbage and cream mixture evenly. This ensures that every bite gets that creamy, cheesy goodness!
- Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your dish as it bakes. If the top isn’t golden brown after 30 minutes, give it a few more minutes—but don’t let it burn!
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to cool for about 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve and enjoy!
- Get Creative: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add extras like cooked bacon or sautéed onions for a twist. Make it your own!
With these tips in hand, you’re all set to master this delightful dish and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of our easy scalloped cabbage! Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Sugar: 3g
Keep in mind that these values can change based on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of cheese or milk. But it’s a comforting side dish that packs in some veggies, and as far as comfort food goes, I’d say it’s a win! Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve cooked up this delicious easy scalloped cabbage, let’s talk about what to serve it with! This dish is so versatile; it pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, try serving it alongside roasted chicken or pork chops. The creamy cabbage complements the savory flavors perfectly!
If you want a lighter meal, it goes wonderfully with grilled fish or a fresh salad. And for my vegetarian friends, consider it as a delightful side to a veggie stir-fry or stuffed bell peppers. I also love serving it with crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that creamy goodness! Whatever you choose, this scalloped cabbage is sure to elevate your meal and leave everyone asking for seconds!
FAQ Section
Can I make easy scalloped cabbage ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. It’s a lifesaver for meal prep!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to get creative! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can use mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend for a unique flavor profile. Just remember that the meltiness will vary, so choose according to your taste!
Is there a way to make it lighter?
If you want a lighter version of easy scalloped cabbage, you can use low-fat milk and cheese. You could also swap the heavy cream for a combination of milk and a little bit of Greek yogurt to maintain that creaminess without all the calories!
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! This dish is super flexible. You can mix in steamed broccoli, carrots, or even sautéed mushrooms to amp up the veggie factor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you add denser vegetables.
What should I do if it’s too watery?
If you find your scalloped cabbage is a bit watery, make sure to drain the cabbage well after boiling. You can also bake it a little longer to help evaporate excess moisture or add a bit more breadcrumb topping to absorb it. No one wants a soggy dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, perfect for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a hassle-free side dish!
- Creamy and Cheesy Goodness: The combination of heavy cream, milk, and cheese creates an irresistibly rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Vegetable Packed: Sneaking in those veggies has never been easier! It’s a delicious way to enjoy cabbage without anyone complaining.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, holiday gathering, or a potluck, this dish is sure to impress and please a crowd.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in different cheeses or add in other veggies to make it your own!
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time, which saves you stress on busy days.
- Comfort Food Vibes: It’s the kind of warm, comforting dish that makes you feel right at home!
Easy Scalloped Cabbage: 5 Steps to Comfort Food Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy scalloped cabbage is a simple and delicious dish that brings out the best in cabbage. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect as a side.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of milk
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked cabbage.
- Pour half of the cream mixture over the cabbage.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, cream mixture, and cheese.
- Top with breadcrumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh cabbage for the best flavor.
- Adjust the cheese according to your taste.
- For a crunchy topping, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: scalloped cabbage, easy cabbage recipe, cheesy cabbage
