Get ready to transform an ordinary vegetable into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds! This Cheesy Scalloped Cabbage Casserole is not just another side dish – it's a creamy, savory sensation that turns humble cabbage into a culinary star. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned cabbage smothered in golden, melted cheese, creating a dish so irresistible it will make even the pickiest eaters fall in love with vegetables.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup lactose-free cheese, shredded
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Wash the cabbage thoroughly and remove any damaged outer leaves. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the cabbage into thin, uniform strips approximately 1/4 inch wide.
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onions over medium heat until they become translucent and slightly golden, which takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet with the onions. Pour in the vegetable broth and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften but remains slightly crisp.
- Season the cabbage mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Transfer the cabbage mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded lactose-free cheese evenly over the top of the cabbage, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and begins to turn golden brown and slightly crispy at the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish or light vegetarian main course, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Slice Cabbage Uniformly: Use a sharp knife to ensure even, thin slices that cook consistently and look professional.
- Don't Overcook the Cabbage: Keep it slightly crisp when sautéing to maintain texture and prevent mushiness.
- Cheese Selection Matters: While the recipe uses lactose-free cheese, feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or gruyère for unique flavor profiles.
- Preheat Your Baking Dish: Greasing the dish prevents sticking and helps achieve those delightful crispy edges.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking helps the cheese set and intensifies the flavors.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding crispy bacon bits, breadcrumbs, or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for extra depth and crunch.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, then baked just before serving – perfect for meal prep or entertaining!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 134kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 11g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
