Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole Recipe

Here’s a comfort dish that every busy cook should have in their back pocket: Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole. With its layers of buttery cabbage, creamy sauce, and a cheesy, cracker-topped crust that turns beautifully golden in the oven, this recipe delivers the cozy nostalgia of classic Southern cooking without demanding hours in the kitchen. It’s incredibly simple and speedy to make—just right for hectic weeknights or whenever you need a warm, satisfying side that the whole table will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Green Cabbage: Provides a tender, slightly sweet base with a subtle bite; don’t skip it—it’s the heart of the dish.
• Vidalia Onion: Adds gentle sweetness and depth; yellow onions work, but Vidalia’s mild flavor is perfect here.
• Butter: For sautéing the veggies and flavoring the crumb topping; brings all the richness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go to strike just the right savory balance.
• Condensed Cream of Chicken or Mushroom Soup: Provides creaminess and that classic casserole flavor. Either works, but mushroom offers an earthier note.
• Mayonnaise: Makes the filling extra luscious and holds it all together; don’t worry, the flavor is subtle—just creaminess!
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: For that gooey, tangy layer in the topping; sharp cheddar adds a punch, but use what you love.
• Ritz Crackers: The ultimate casserole topping; they deliver buttery crunch and childhood nostalgia. No substitutions truly compare, but any buttery cracker can work in a pinch.
• Extra Butter (for topping): Melts into the crackers and cheese, helping the crust brown and crisp up beautifully.

Tip: Want a lighter version? Use light mayo and a lighter soup. It’ll still be creamy and delicious!

Variations

• Switch Up the Soup: Cream of celery or even cream of potato are tasty alternatives if you want to play with flavors.
• Add Protein: Fold in cooked, shredded chicken or diced ham before topping for a heartier, one-dish meal.
• Cheese Choices: Try a mix of cheeses—Monterey Jack for meltiness, or a little Parmesan for extra savoriness.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in a handful of thawed frozen peas, corn, or sauteed bell peppers with the cabbage for extra color and nutrients.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers or crunchy gluten-free panko for the topping, and check your soup’s label.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish—spray or a quick swipe of butter is all you need.

Step 2: Cook the Cabbage and Onion

Coarsely chop the cabbage for plenty of texture. In a large nonstick pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cabbage and chopped Vidalia onion. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes, until the cabbage softens and begins to cook down but still has a bit of crunch. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Spread the cabbage mixture evenly in your prepared dish.

Step 4: Mix and Add the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, combine the condensed soup and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth, then gently spread this creamy sauce over the cabbage layer—it doesn’t need to be perfect, as it will spread as the casserole bakes.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In another bowl, stir together coarsely crushed Ritz crackers, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle this gloriously buttery mixture over the cabbage and sauce mixture.

Step 6: Bake

Slide the casserole into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and nicely browned. The aromas in your kitchen at this point? Pure happiness.

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving so it sets up a bit—easier to scoop and even more delicious!

How to Serve

This cabbage casserole is endlessly versatile at the table. Serve it as a hearty side with roasted chicken, pork chops, meatloaf, or baked ham. It also pairs beautifully with lighter main dishes, like grilled fish or a simple salad, making it a year-round favorite. I love sprinkling a little fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and brightness.

For potlucks or holidays, it’s the first dish to disappear—consider doubling the recipe if you’re feeding a bigger crowd!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors just deepen and get even better as it sits!

Freezing

For longer storage, this casserole freezes surprisingly well. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through and crispy on top again.

Reheating

To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave or return the whole dish to a warm oven. If the topping needs a little refresh, add a touch more cheese or a drizzle of melted butter before broiling for a minute or two.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole is a simple, soul-satisfying classic that brings warmth and comfort to your table in under an hour. Whether you’re feeding family, sharing at a potluck, or simply craving the taste of home, this casserole never disappoints. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a treasured staple in your busy weeknight rotation—give it a try and fall in love with its effortless charm!

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