Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Escalloped Cabbage Casserole Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 head Cabbage (Small to medium-sized); 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (For the roux); 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour (To thicken the sauce); 2 cups Whole milk (Adds creaminess); 1 cup Mozzarella cheese (For gooey texture); 1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese (For bold flavor); 1 teaspoon Paprika (For color and flavor); 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (To taste); 1 teaspoon Freshly cracked black pepper (To taste)

0 Shares

Imagine a cozy evening, the scent of warmth and comfort enveloping your kitchen as you whip up a dish that makes you feel like a culinary hero. That’s exactly what happens when you decide to make Escalloped Cabbage. This delightful casserole transforms ordinary cabbage into an indulgent experience, draped in a creamy cheese sauce that sings with flavor.

I discovered this recipe during a dinner party frenzy, needing something hearty yet simple to prepare. It turned out to be the star of the evening, surprising guests who never imagined cabbage could mesmerize their taste buds! The balance of sharp cheddar and smooth mozzarella combined with a hint of paprika creates a luscious topping that complements the tender cabbage perfectly.

If you’re tired of the same old meals and craving a comforting dish that’s both crowd-pleasing and easy to make, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into the steps to craft this creamy, cheesy delight that will turn even the most cautious eaters into cabbage fans!

Why is Escalloped Cabbage a must-try?

Comforting and heartwarming, this dish elevates cabbage to a whole new level of deliciousness. Simply prepared, you can whip it up in just 45 minutes with minimal effort. Cheesy goodness shines through the mozzarella and sharp cheddar, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Perfect for gatherings, this casserole will wow your guests and family alike. Looking for more easy recipes? Check out the popular “Cheesy Broccoli Bake”!

Escalloped Cabbage Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need!

For the Cabbage

Cabbage – A small to medium-sized head provides the perfect base for this creamy casserole.

For the Cheese Sauce

Unsalted butter – Used to create that rich, velvety roux for the sauce.
All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce, giving it a delightful creaminess.
Whole milk – Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce, which is essential for the cheesy goodness in the Escalloped Cabbage.
Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully and creates a gooey texture in your dish.
Sharp cheddar cheese – Infuses a bold flavor that complements the mild cabbage perfectly.

For the Seasoning

Paprika – Adds a pop of color and a slightly smoky flavor when sprinkled on top.
Kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust to your taste.
Freshly cracked black pepper – Offers a kick of spice to balance the creaminess.

By gathering these ingredients, you’re setting yourself up for a delightful experience with this Escalloped Cabbage recipe that will turn heads at any meal!

How to Make Escalloped Cabbage

Boil the Cabbage: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, adding a sprinkle of salt. Gently boil your cabbage wedges for 1 to 3 minutes to soften. Drain and trim off the cores.
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×9 baking dish with baking spray. Lay the par-cooked cabbage wedges neatly in the dish, ready for the delicious sauce.
Make the Roux: In a nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until smooth and bubbly, creating a heavenly roux.
Create the Sauce: Gradually add the milk in batches, whisking until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. Once thick, remove from heat and stir in the mozzarella and sharp cheddar until fully melted and blended.
Combine and Season: Pour the luscious cheese sauce over the prepared cabbage, ensuring it gets all the lovely flavors. Finish with a sprinkle of paprika for a touch of color and flavor.
Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Wait until it’s bubbly and golden brown—your kitchen will smell heavenly! Serve warm and savor every bite.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a bright finishing touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Escalloped Cabbage

Fridge: Store leftover Escalloped Cabbage in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: You can freeze this casserole before baking. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap; it’s best used within 2 to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat baked Escalloped Cabbage, cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated thoroughly.

Serving Tip: When reheating, if the sauce has thickened, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Escalloped Cabbage delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can parboil the cabbage and prepare the cheese sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply parboil the cabbage wedges and place them in your baking dish, while the cheese sauce can be made and stored separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, combine the cabbage and sauce, sprinkle with paprika, and pop it in the oven. This ensures the casserole maintains its creamy texture and rich flavors, so you can enjoy this comforting dish on busy weeknights with minimal fuss. Just remember to give it a good stir before baking to mix in all that deliciousness!

Escalloped Cabbage Variations

Feel free to explore these creative twists to make your dish even more delightful and tailored to your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or oat milk and use dairy-free cheese for a creamy, vegan option.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for an added zing!
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cheese sauce for enhanced flavor.
Crumb Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with butter and herbs over the casserole before baking for a crunchy texture.
Meaty Addition: Layer cooked, crumbled sausage or bacon between the cabbage and cheese sauce for a heartier bite.
Other Cheeses: Swap mozzarella for provolone or gouda to change the flavor profile while keeping it cheesy and delicious.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and vibrant color.
Nutty Twist: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for a flavorful crunch that complements the creaminess beautifully.

What to Serve with Escalloped Cabbage?

Creating the perfect meal involves balancing flavors and textures, and this delightful casserole invites a world of delicious pairings.

Savory Meatloaf: This classic, hearty dish enhances the creamy decadence of the Escalloped Cabbage, creating a satisfying combination that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes contrast beautifully with the crunchy cabbage, ensuring every bite is rich and fulfilling. A drizzle of gravy takes it to the next level.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy exterior and earthy flavor complement the creaminess of the casserole, adding a lovely crunch with each bite.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweet and tender carrots provide a bright, uplifting note that harmonizes wonderfully with the savory cabbage, balancing the meal perfectly.
Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread allows you to soak up the creamy cheese sauce, adding a rustic touch to your dining experience.
Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw brings a crisp and tangy counterpart to the rich Escalloped Cabbage, providing a lovely contrast of flavors and textures.
Crisp Green Salad: Light and fresh, a salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a crisp bite that brightens the meal and enhances every richness of the dish.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine pairs beautifully, its acidity balancing the creaminess, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
Apple Crisp: Finish the meal with a warm apple crisp—its sweetness and cinnamon spice create a beautiful closure after the indulgent casserole.

Expert Tips for Escalloped Cabbage

Choose Fresh Cabbage: Select a small to medium-sized cabbage with firm, vibrant leaves for the best texture and flavor in your Escalloped Cabbage.
Avoid Overcooking: Parboil the cabbage only for 1 to 3 minutes; overcooking can result in mushiness, ruining the delightful texture of the dish.
Perfect Cheese Blend: For maximum flavor, use a mix of high-quality mozzarella and sharp cheddar—this enhances the creamy sauce and complements the cabbage beautifully.
Customize Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the paprika, salt, and pepper according to your palate; don’t shy away from experimenting with your own favorite spices!
Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed freshly baked and warm—the creamy sauce thickens as it cools, but it won’t have the same inviting aroma and texture!

Escalloped Cabbage Recipe FAQs

What type of cabbage should I use for Escalloped Cabbage?
I recommend using a small to medium-sized head of cabbage that has vibrant, firm leaves. Look for one that feels heavy for its size and is free of dark spots or wilted leaves. This ensures your dish will have a great texture and taste!

How do I store leftover Escalloped Cabbage?
Absolutely! Store your leftover Escalloped Cabbage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F or pop it in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze Escalloped Cabbage?
Yes, you can freeze it! To do this, assemble the casserole (but don’t bake it), then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. For the best quality, use it within 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, simply remove the wrapping and bake from frozen—just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the usual bake time.

What if my cheese sauce is too thick for the Escalloped Cabbage?
If your sauce ends up too thick while preparing, don’t fret! Just whisk in a little bit of extra milk—start with a tablespoon and mix until you reach your desired consistency. This will ensure the sauce is creamy and coats the cabbage beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
You can make Escalloped Cabbage gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The process of creating the roux remains the same, and you’ll still achieve a luscious, creamy sauce. Just make sure to check that your cheese is gluten-free too!

Can pets eat Escalloped Cabbage?
While cabbage is generally safe for dogs in small quantities, be mindful of the other ingredients in this dish—primarily the cheese and spices used. It’s best to err on the side of caution and stick to plain cooked cabbage for your furry friends!