Whenever I think about scalloped cabbage, my mind immediately races to pairing options. Picture this: you just whipped up a dish of creamy scalloped cabbage, rich and inviting. So, what complements these hearty flavors?
Grilled sausages are a perfect match. The savory spice of the sausage mingles beautifully with the creaminess of the casserole. If you prefer seafood, baked salmon with a hint of lemon can brighten up the meal, adding a fresh note. For a vegetarian option, think about roasted garlic potatoes; their earthiness pairs well with the cabbage’s flavor.
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and balances the dish nicely. And don’t forget a glass of crisp white wine—perhaps a Sauvignon Blanc, which will elevate that cozy dinner experience.
What is Scalloped Cabbage?
Scalloped cabbage is a baked dish that combines steamed or sautéed cabbage, typically mixed with a creamy sauce. It’s commonly layered with cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. The result is a baked casserole that somehow feels both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a simple dish that transforms humble cabbage into something truly special.
It’s a great example of how versatile vegetables can be when you dive into the right preparation method. While many people may think of cabbage as merely a salad or slaw ingredient, scalloped cabbage showcases its potential, lending itself beautifully to bold flavors and creamy textures.
How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine sinking your fork into a warm dish of scalloped cabbage. The first bite reveals a blend of creamy, cheesy goodness punctuated by tender, flavorful cabbage.
Each forkful reveals a layer of texture—the crunch from the breadcrumbs contrasted by the silky sauce and softened cabbage. It’s savory with a slight tang from mustard and touches of garlic. The flavors meld together in a way that feels satisfying without being overwhelming.
Why You’ll Love This
- Simplicity: It’s straightforward to prepare. You can throw everything together in a dish with minimal fuss.
- Flavor Bomb: This dish is an explosion of flavors—creamy, cheesy, and buttery all at once.
- Versatile: While the base is cabbage, you can easily swap or add in other vegetables or proteins to suit your family’s tastes.
- Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or holiday gathering, people will rave about it.
- Nourishing: Cabbage is packed with nutrients. You can indulge without guilt.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons plain flour
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup whole milk (or cream for richness)
- ⅔ cup grated cheddar cheese (you might choose sharper cheese like aged cheddar)
- ½ cup crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping
- 1 medium-sized cabbage, chopped into bite-sized wedges
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
First, you need to chop the cabbage. Remove any outer leaves that look damaged, then slice the cabbage into wedges. Aim for bite-sized pieces. Rinse these under cold water to get rid of any dirt or debris.
Step 2: Blanch the Cabbage
Next, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add the cabbage wedges and let them boil for about 3-4 minutes. This step will soften the cabbage slightly, making it more tender in the final dish. Once done, drain the cabbage and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour. Cook this mixture for about a minute until it’s bubbly but not browned. Gradually whisk in the milk, avoiding lumps. Keep stirring until it thickens, roughly 3-5 minutes.
Now, add the salt, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. Then stir in about ½ cup of the cheddar cheese. Mix until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
In a greased baking dish, place a layer of half the cabbage. Next, pour half the cheese sauce over the top. Repeat this with the remaining cabbage and sauce.
Step 5: Add the Crunch
Finally, sprinkle the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs over the top. This will create a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creaminess of the dish.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve
Let your scalloped cabbage cool for just a couple of minutes before serving. It’s cheesy and warm, making it ideal for sharing.
Tips On Making Scalloped Cabbage
- Cook the Cabbage Long Enough: Blanching the cabbage is essential. You want to ensure it’s tender enough to absorb flavors.
- Cream for Richness: If you’re feeling adventurous, go for heavy cream instead of milk. It’ll give a richer texture and flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and real cheese make a world of difference. Grated cheese will melt seamlessly and blend nicely.
- Don’t Skip the Topping: The crunchy topping adds an essential texture contrast. Feel free to experiment with different types of breading for variety.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare scalloped cabbage in advance. Just bake it right before you’re ready to serve.
Nutrition Information
Scalloped cabbage can be a nourishing addition to your meal. A typical serving might contain:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
How Do You Store This Scalloped Cabbage?
Leftovers can be a lifesaver during busy weeks. Here’s how to store scalloped cabbage:
- Cool: First, let the dish cool down to room temperature.
- Cover: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheat: Enjoy it cold, or reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Scalloped Cabbage?
- Broccoli: This vegetable can replace cabbage for a variation. It also complements cheese well.
- Cauliflower: Chopped cauliflower adds a nice creaminess, similar to cabbage but with a unique taste.
- Kale: If you want something heartier, this nutrient-rich green can add texture and flavor.
- Zucchini: Sliced zucchini can provide a mild taste that blends well with the sauce.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach can be another fantastic alternative; add it in with the cheese sauce to keep its vibrant green color.
Conclusion
Scalloped cabbage is more than just a side dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate. The cozy texture, rich cheese flavor, and tender cabbage make for a delightful experience that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Whether you’re reinventing family favorites or introducing new dishes to your repertoire, this recipe deserves a spot on your table. So fire up that oven and indulge in a dish that’s sure to satisfy! You won’t regret it.
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Scalloped Cabbage Recipe – Recipes From Chef
Description
Let’s dive deeper into this comforting dish called scalloped cabbage. Growing up, I always had a soft spot for casseroles. They seemed to bring the family together around the dinner table, with enticing smells wafting through the house.
My first encounter with scalloped cabbage was unforgettable. I was at a friend’s dinner party, and they served it as a side. Creamy, cheesy goodness covering tender cabbage was a revelation. I just knew I had to recreate it.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
-
First, you need to chop the cabbage. Remove any outer leaves that look damaged, then slice the cabbage into wedges. Aim for bite-sized pieces. Rinse these under cold water to get rid of any dirt or debris.
Step 2: Blanch the Cabbage
-
Next, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add the cabbage wedges and let them boil for about 3-4 minutes. This step will soften the cabbage slightly, making it more tender in the final dish. Once done, drain the cabbage and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
-
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour. Cook this mixture for about a minute until it’s bubbly but not browned. Gradually whisk in the milk, avoiding lumps. Keep stirring until it thickens, roughly 3-5 minutes.
Now, add the salt, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. Then stir in about ½ cup of the cheddar cheese. Mix until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
-
In a greased baking dish, place a layer of half the cabbage. Next, pour half the cheese sauce over the top. Repeat this with the remaining cabbage and sauce.
Step 5: Add the Crunch
-
Finally, sprinkle the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs over the top. This will create a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creaminess of the dish.
Step 6: Bake
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve
-
Let your scalloped cabbage cool for just a couple of minutes before serving. It’s cheesy and warm, making it ideal for sharing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 250kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Total Carbohydrate 20g7%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Protein 8g16%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Cook the Cabbage Long Enough: Blanching the cabbage is essential. You want to ensure it’s tender enough to absorb flavors.
- Cream for Richness: If you’re feeling adventurous, go for heavy cream instead of milk. It’ll give a richer texture and flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and real cheese make a world of difference. Grated cheese will melt seamlessly and blend nicely.
- Don’t Skip the Topping: The crunchy topping adds an essential texture contrast. Feel free to experiment with different types of breading for variety.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare scalloped cabbage in advance. Just bake it right before you’re ready to serve.
