Old Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole

Comfort food at its finest, the Old Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole is the kind of dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals, warm kitchens, and family gatherings. This casserole is everything you love about southern cooking—rich, hearty, and full of flavor. With tender cabbage, savory ground meat, creamy cheese, and a blend of comforting spices, it’s no wonder this dish has stood the test of time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side for a special occasion, this casserole will quickly become a go-to in your recipe repertoire. Trust me, you’re going to love it!

Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole

Hearty & Comforting: This casserole is packed with flavors that will fill you up and leave you feeling warm and satisfied. It’s the ultimate comfort food, ideal for those cozy evenings at home.

Easy to Make: No need to spend hours in the kitchen—this recipe is simple, requiring just a few ingredients, and comes together quickly. It’s a dish that even beginners can master!

Versatile: This casserole can easily be adapted to your preferences. Add some extra veggies, switch up the protein, or adjust the spices to suit your tastes.

Budget-Friendly: With ingredients that are easy to find and affordable, this casserole is a perfect meal for any budget. Plus, it’s a great way to make the most out of cabbage!

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cabbage – Cabbage is the star of this dish! It becomes soft and tender as it bakes, absorbing all the savory flavors of the casserole.
• 1 lb ground beef – Adds a rich, meaty flavor that complements the cabbage perfectly. You could also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.
• 1 small onion (diced) – For that classic savory depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – A must-have for a fragrant, flavorful base.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds a touch of acidity and juiciness to balance the richness of the beef and cheese.
• 1/2 cup cooked rice – Adds some texture and bulk to the casserole, making it more filling.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – The cheesy layer on top makes this dish extra comforting.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors and balances out the sweetness of the cabbage.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – For a subtle kick of spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Adds a slight smokiness and depth.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a savory umami flavor to the beef.
• 1/4 cup sour cream – Adds a creamy richness to the casserole.
• 2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing the cabbage and adding richness to the dish.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole bakes evenly and reaches that golden, bubbly perfection.

2. Prepare the Cabbage:
Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and chop it into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot, bring water to a boil, then add the cabbage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the cabbage is tender but still has some crunch. Drain and set aside.

3. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Add the diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet with the beef. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Combine Rice and Sour Cream:
Stir in the cooked rice and sour cream to the beef mixture. Mix everything well, making sure the rice is coated in the creamy, flavorful sauce.

6. Layer the Casserole:
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked cabbage and the beef mixture. Spread it out evenly.

7. Add Cheese:
Top the casserole with the shredded cheddar cheese, covering the entire surface.

8. Bake:
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

9. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or cornbread for the ultimate southern meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 380
Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 700mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 22g
Vitamin A: 12%
Vitamin C: 85%
Calcium: 20%
Iron: 15%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve Old Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole

With Cornbread: Serve this casserole with a slice of warm, buttered cornbread for a traditional southern meal that’s sure to satisfy.

With a Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would be the perfect side dish to balance out the richness of the casserole.

With Mashed Potatoes: For an even heartier meal, pair this casserole with creamy mashed potatoes. You can never have too many carbs when it comes to comfort food!

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead: You can prepare this casserole the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Swap the Meat: While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, sausage, or even a vegetarian substitute for a different flavor profile.

Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the casserole for a boost of color and nutrition.

Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen cabbage?
A1: While fresh cabbage is best for this recipe, you can use frozen cabbage if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess liquid before using.

Q2: Can I make this casserole in advance?
A2: Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.

Q3: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A3: To make this casserole dairy-free, swap the cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a non-dairy sour cream substitute.

Q4: Can I freeze this casserole?
A4: Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

Q6: Can I add bacon to this recipe?
A6: Yes! If you love bacon, feel free to add some cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef mixture for extra flavor.

Q7: Is this casserole gluten-free?
A7: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but make sure the Worcestershire sauce you use is gluten-free if you need to adhere to a strict gluten-free diet.

Q8: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A8: To add some heat, toss in some jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or even a bit of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Q9: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A9: Yes! You can skip the ground meat and use a meat substitute or add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even beans for a hearty vegetarian version.

Q10: What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?
A10: The best way to reheat this casserole is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the cheese is melted again.

Conclusion

The Old Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender cabbage, savory beef, and plenty of cheese, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply craving something hearty, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try, and enjoy a taste of southern comfort food at its finest!

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