Old Fashioned Creamy and Cheesy Cabbage Casserole 🥬🧀

This comforting and hearty casserole is a delightful blend of creamy goodness and cheesy flavor, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. The cabbage is tender and infused with cheesy richness, making it a unique and flavorful dish that everyone will love! Pair it with some crusty bread for a complete meal that will warm your heart. 🍞✨

Ingredients

For the casserole

• 1 large head of green cabbage, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of cottage cheese
• 1 cup of sour cream
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon of butter (for greasing the dish)

For garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter and set aside.

🏠 Preheating the oven helps the casserole cook evenly, ensuring a perfect finish.

• In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the chopped cabbage for about 3-5 minutes, just until slightly tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

🌊 This step helps to soften the cabbage while preserving a bit of crunch!

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched cabbage, diced onion, minced garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.

• Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top.

🥄 Press the mixture down gently to ensure it holds together while baking.

• Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.

⏲️ Keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes to achieve that perfect golden color!

• Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

🌿 Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to this decadent dish!

Variations

• Meaty Twist: Add cooked ground beef or shredded chicken to the mixture for a heartier dish.
• Vegetarian: Swap out the cottage cheese for a plant-based alternative for a creamy yet dairy-free option.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an added spice level.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or dill to the mixture for an aromatic touch.

🔄 Feel free to get creative with ingredients; this casserole is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to match your taste preferences!

Enjoy your creamy and cheesy cabbage casserole! It's sure to become a family favorite! 🍽️❤️