Welcome to the delightful world of Scalloped Cabbage Casserole, a dish that promises to elevate your New Yearβs Day festivities with its creamy, savory layers and aromatic herb-infused breadcrumb topping. This vegetable casserole, baked to perfection, is sure to convert even the most skeptical cabbage naysayers into devoted fans. Below, you will find a detailed guide to preparing this heartwarming dish, including all the necessary steps, tips, and nutritional information. Get ready to dive into a wholesome and satisfying culinary adventure that takes a humble cabbage to new gastronomic heights.
Scalloped Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Description: This is our New Year’s Day cabbage dish. My husband, who is not a cabbage lover, will actually eat this and ask for seconds.
Ingredients:
- Cabbage: 8 cups
- Carrots: 2 medium, sliced
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Butter: 5 tablespoons (divided)
- Margarine: 3 tablespoons (optional, can substitute with butter)
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup
- Milk: 1 1/2 cups
- American cheese: 1 1/2 cups, shredded
- Dried marjoram: 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
- Bread crumbs: 1 cup (for the topping)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 162.5
- Fat Content: 9.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 5.7g
- Cholesterol Content: 25.6mg
- Sodium Content: 231.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 16.6g
- Fiber Content: 2.8g
- Sugar Content: 4.4g
- Protein Content: 4.2g
Servings:
8
Total Time:
1 hour 20 minutes (Prep: 45 minutes, Cook: 35 minutes)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Vegetables:
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the cabbage and carrots until they are crisp-tender. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain them and set aside. This step ensures that the vegetables are tender yet still hold their shape after baking.
2. Making the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sautΓ© until they become tender and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the onions, adding a sweet and savory base to the sauce.
3. Creating the Roux:
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautΓ©ed onions, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes until it becomes bubbly. This is the roux, which will thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assembling the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease a 2 1/2 to 3-quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread half of the cooked cabbage and carrots in the bottom of the dish. Pour half of the sauce over the vegetables, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded American cheese on top of the sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage, carrots, sauce, and cheese.
5. Preparing the Breadcrumb Topping:
In a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the bread crumbs, dried marjoram, and dried thyme. Cook, stirring frequently, until the bread crumbs are lightly browned and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This herb-infused topping adds a delightful crunch and aromatic finish to the casserole.
6. Baking the Casserole:
Sprinkle the prepared bread crumb mixture evenly over the top of the layered casserole. Bake in the preheated oven, uncovered, for 30-35 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the bread crumb topping is golden brown.
Tips for the Perfect Scalloped Cabbage Casserole
- Cheese Selection: While American cheese is specified in the recipe, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like cheddar, gruyere, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Variations: Consider adding other vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
- Make-Ahead Option: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and refrigerated. Bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free bread crumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutritional and Dietary Insights
This Scalloped Cabbage Casserole offers a balanced nutritional profile, making it a great addition to your meal plan. With its moderate calorie content and rich flavor, it can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side. The presence of fiber-rich cabbage and carrots aids in digestion, while the cheese and milk provide essential calcium and protein. For a lower-fat version, consider using reduced-fat cheese and milk.
Culinary History and Inspiration
Scalloped dishes, which involve layering ingredients with a creamy sauce and baking until golden, have a long history in American cuisine. Traditionally, scalloped potatoes are the most well-known, but this cabbage version offers a lighter, vegetable-forward twist. The combination of cheese and breadcrumbs creates a comforting dish reminiscent of classic American casseroles, while the herbs add a touch of elegance and depth.
Reader Reviews and Feedback
With an impressive aggregated rating of 5 stars from 14 reviews, this Scalloped Cabbage Casserole has clearly won over many hearts and palates. Here are some snippets from satisfied cooks:
- “A surprise hit at our New Year’s dinner! Even the kids asked for seconds.”
- “I never thought I’d enjoy cabbage this much. The sauce and cheese make it irresistible.”
- “Simple to make and absolutely delicious. This has become a regular in our dinner rotation.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Scalloped Cabbage Casserole is a versatile and delectable dish that can transform ordinary cabbage into a flavorful feast. Its creamy layers, cheesy goodness, and crispy breadcrumb topping make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you are looking to surprise your family with a new vegetable dish or seeking a comforting addition to your holiday table, this casserole is sure to impress. Embrace the joy of cooking and savor the delightful harmony of flavors in this wonderful recipe. Happy cooking!
