Some dishes carry you back to quiet evenings at home, wrapped in the gentle hum of the oven and the soft clatter of utensils. This cheesy cabbage casserole with cracker topping is exactly that kind of dish for me. It’s the kind of comfort food that fills the kitchen with a buttery aroma, mingling with the sharp, melty pull of cheddar and mozzarella, while the crispy cracker crust adds that unexpected crunch that makes every bite worth savoring.
Last winter, I remember coming home to this bubbling casserole after a long day. The steam rising from the dish fogged my glasses as I lifted the first forkful to my mouth. The creamy, tangy blend of sour cream and mayo wrapped the tender cabbage perfectly. There’s something about that crunchy topping—golden and buttery—that makes each mouthful feel like a small celebration. It’s not just a side dish; it’s the kind of meal that feels like being wrapped in a warm blanket on a chilly night.
- Comforting and creamy with a cheesy richness that feels indulgent.
- The buttery cracker topping adds a delightful crunch contrasting the tender cabbage.
- Simple ingredients come together in an hour, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Versatile enough to serve as a hearty side or a satisfying vegetarian main.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully, keeping the topping crisp if warmed in the oven.
If you’re wondering if this casserole is too rich or heavy, it’s surprisingly balanced. The cabbage keeps it light and fresh, while the cheeses and cracker topping create just enough decadence to satisfy without overwhelming. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy cabbage in a new, exciting way.
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Cheesy Cabbage Casserole with Cracker Topping
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A comforting and cheesy cabbage casserole topped with a crunchy cracker crust, perfect as a hearty side dish or a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
1 medium head green cabbage, cored and chopped (about 6 cups)
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 1/2 cups crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz crackers)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 5 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked cabbage, sautéed onions and garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, whole milk, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Transfer the cabbage mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the cabbage mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
FAQ
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble it and keep it refrigerated for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I use if I don’t have crackers for the topping? Crushed breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes work well too, just toss them in melted butter before sprinkling on top.
Is this casserole suitable for a vegetarian diet? Absolutely! It’s packed with veggies and cheese, making it a great meatless option.
How do I keep the topping crispy when reheating leftovers? Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes rather than the microwave to maintain that lovely crunch.
When the craving for something cozy nudges you, this cheesy cabbage casserole with cracker topping is waiting. Give it a try, save it for later, and let your kitchen fill with delicious comfort.