Easy Cabbage Casserole

Looking for a simple yet delicious side dish that’s packed with flavor? This Cabbage Casserole is the answer! With layers of tender cabbage, sweet Vidalia onions, a creamy sauce, and a buttery cracker topping, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this casserole is a must-try for cabbage lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yields: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

• 1 small cabbage, chopped
• 1 Vidalia onion, chopped
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ½ stick butter, melted
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 stick butter, melted (for topping)
• Cooking spray (like Pam)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Layer Cabbage and Onions:
   • Spread the chopped cabbage evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Layer the chopped Vidalia onions on top of the cabbage.
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
   • In a medium bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and ½ stick of melted butter until well combined.
   • Spoon the sauce over the onions and spread it evenly to cover the layers.
4. Make the Topping:
   • In another bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 stick of melted butter. Mix well.
   • Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake:
   • Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cabbage is tender.
6. Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Flavorful: The combination of cabbage, onions, and creamy sauce creates a dish that’s both hearty and delicious.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is a hit at family dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.
• Versatile: Serve it as a side dish or add protein to make it a main course.

Tips and Tricks

• Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh cabbage works best for this recipe, but you can also use pre-shredded coleslaw mix for convenience.
• Add Protein: Mix in cooked bacon, sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
• Customize the Topping: Swap Ritz crackers for crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian Option: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce for a little heat.
• Cheesy Twist: Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack for extra flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

• Main Dishes: Serve alongside roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled pork chops.
• Bread: Pair with warm dinner rolls or cornbread for a complete meal.
• Salad: Add a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This casserole freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use a different type of onion?
Yes, you can use yellow or white onions if Vidalia onions are unavailable.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.

3. Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup works well as a substitute.

4. How do I prevent the topping from burning?
If the topping browns too quickly, cover the casserole loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Conclusion

This Cabbage Casserole is a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender cabbage, creamy sauce, and buttery cracker topping, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this casserole is a must-have in your recipe collection. Try it today and enjoy the delicious flavors of comfort food at its best!