Escalloped Cabbage Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate cozy side dish, look no further than this Escalloped Cabbage Recipe. Layers of tender cabbage are drenched in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust, and baked until gloriously golden and bubbly. It’s pure comfort food with a timeless twist—the kind of recipe that turns an everyday vegetable into an irresistible star. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this creamy, cheesy casserole will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Escalloped Cabbage Recipe lies in its simple, honest ingredients. Each element delivers something special, from delicate flavor and creamy texture to irresistible crunch. Here’s what you’ll need—and why.
- Green cabbage: The heart of the dish, it turns tender and slightly sweet after simmering and baking.
- Unsalted butter: Provides richness in both the cheese sauce and the crunchy topping, allowing you to control the salt perfectly.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the creamy, dreamy cheese sauce.
- Whole milk: Lends the sauce its silky, luxurious texture and helps meld all the flavors together.
- Salt: Enhances every ingredient and ties everything together.
- Black pepper: Adds a dash of gentle warmth to balance the richness.
- Ground nutmeg: The secret ingredient for depth and a subtle nutty note—just a touch makes all the difference.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings gooey, savory goodness and a punch of flavor to every bite.
- Breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers: For that blissful, golden, and crunchy finale on top.
- Melted butter (for topping): Crisping up the breadcrumbs and adding even more buttery flavor.
How to Make Escalloped Cabbage Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 2-quart baking dish. This ensures you’ll get that irresistible, bubbly edge. It’s also the right moment to set a large pot of salted water on the stove and bring it to a boil.
Step 2: Boil the Cabbage
Chop your cabbage into bite-size pieces, then drop them into the boiling water. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes—just until the cabbage is crisp-tender, so it won’t turn to mush while baking. Drain thoroughly and set aside. (Dry cabbage is key for a perfectly creamy Escalloped Cabbage Recipe!)
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking all the while, then add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and bubbles, around 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until smoothly melted.
Step 4: Combine Cabbage and Sauce
Place the drained cabbage in a large bowl, then pour over that luscious cheese sauce. Use a big spoon to toss and coat every piece, making sure the cabbage is well blanketed in creamy goodness. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping
Mix the breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until evenly moistened. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the cabbage and cheese layers, making sure to cover every nook for maximum crunch once baked.
Step 6: Bake and Rest
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is deliciously golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Let your Escalloped Cabbage Recipe sit for about 5 minutes before serving—this helps set the casserole just enough for perfect scooping.
How to Serve Escalloped Cabbage Recipe
Garnishes
For a little flourish, sprinkle your casserole with fresh chopped parsley, chives, or even a dusting of paprika right after baking. These pops of color and freshness really brighten up the creamy, cheesy bake and make it extra inviting at the table.
Side Dishes
This Escalloped Cabbage Recipe is a superstar next to hearty mains like roasted chicken, glazed ham, or classic meatloaf. For a full vegetarian spread, serve it alongside a crisp green salad and roasted potatoes. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with practically anything!
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make an impression, try baking individual portions of the casserole in small ramekins or mini cocottes. Or, go for a rustic look by letting the golden crust spill right to the edges of a cast iron skillet straight from the oven to the table. Either way, this recipe is sure to draw a crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Escalloped Cabbage Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply transfer any remaining casserole to an airtight container once completely cooled, or cover the original baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this casserole! Assemble the dish right up to the point before baking, then wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to two months. If you’ve already baked it, let it cool and then freeze individual slices for easy reheating. Just keep in mind that while the texture will be great, the topping may soften a little compared to fresh.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until hot and bubbling. For individual portions, the microwave works well, but pop them under the broiler for a minute or two if you want to revive that crispy topping.
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage instead of green for this Escalloped Cabbage Recipe?
Technically, yes! Red cabbage works, but it has a slightly stronger flavor and will give your dish a vibrant color. Some people notice a bit of sweetness or even a blue hue after baking, so keep that in mind if presentation is key.
What’s the best way to add extra flavor to the cheese sauce?
Try mixing in sautéed onions, garlic, or a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the cheese sauce. You can also switch up your cheeses—Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, or mozzarella all add unique tastes to this versatile recipe.
Is this Escalloped Cabbage Recipe gluten-free?
As written, this recipe contains flour and breadcrumbs, which aren’t gluten-free. However, you can easily adapt it by using a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce and gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for the topping.
Can I prep this casserole the day before baking?
Absolutely! Assemble the entire casserole and store it covered in the refrigerator overnight. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to account for starting with a chilled dish, and you’ll have a hot, fresh Escalloped Cabbage Recipe with zero stress.
Is this dish good for meal prep?
Yes—this casserole reheats beautifully and retains its creamy texture, making it a fantastic choice for make-ahead lunches or dinners. Pair it with protein or a big salad and you’re set for the week!
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to discover just how wonderful cabbage can taste, this Escalloped Cabbage Recipe is your new go-to. Nostalgic yet fresh, creamy but never heavy, it’s the type of side dish that feels like a hug on your dinner plate. Give it a try and let it earn a permanent place in your home-cooked repertoire!
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Escalloped Cabbage Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this comforting and creamy Escalloped Cabbage, a cheesy cabbage casserole that’s perfect as a side dish. With a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping, this baked cabbage recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head green cabbage (about 2 1/2 to 3 lbs), chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- Cook the Cabbage: Boil chopped cabbage in salted water for 5–6 minutes until tender. Drain well.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then slowly add milk and seasonings. Stir in cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Combine and Bake: Mix cabbage with cheese sauce, transfer to baking dish. Top with buttery breadcrumbs/crackers. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed onions.
- Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
