If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients into a warm, cheesy masterpiece, then this Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole Recipe is calling your name. It’s a nostalgic favorite that combines tender cabbage, savory cheese, and a crispy cracker topping to create a casserole that feels like a warm hug from the past. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe turns humble cabbage into a show-stopping side—or even a satisfying main—that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of accessible, straightforward ingredients is all it takes to make this dish shine. Each one plays an important role in balancing flavors and textures, from the creamy soup base to the crunchy cracker topping.
- 1 small head green cabbage: The star vegetable that becomes tender and flavorful when cooked down.
- 1 medium Vidalia onion, chopped: Adds a sweet, mild onion flavor that complements the cabbage perfectly.
- 8 tablespoons butter: Used for cooking the veggies to melt-in-your-mouth softness and enhance richness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors.
- 1 (10-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy, savory base that binds the casserole.
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise: Adds tang and smoothness to the soup mixture, making it extra luscious.
- 3 tablespoons melted butter: Mixed with the topping ingredients for a golden, buttery crust.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Brings a sharp, cheesy punch that melts beautifully on top.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), coarsely crushed: Provides that irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy cabbage.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking and help your delicious creation slide out easily when it’s done.
Step 2: Cook the Cabbage and Onion
Coarsely chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces for the perfect texture. Melt 8 tablespoons of butter in a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the cabbage and chopped onion, cooking 8 to 10 minutes while stirring frequently. This softens the vegetables and starts to build flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste, which enhances the natural sweetness of the cabbage and onion.
Step 3: Layer the Cabbage Mixture
Transfer the cooked cabbage and onion mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. This forms the comforting bed for all the creamy and crunchy layers that follow.
Step 4: Mix and Spread the Creamy Layer
In a small bowl, combine the condensed cream soup (either chicken or mushroom) with the mayonnaise. This mixture adds moisture and tang, balancing the savory cabbage. Spread this creamy blend evenly over the cabbage in the casserole dish.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Crispy Topping
In another bowl, stir together the melted butter, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and coarsely crushed Ritz crackers. This combination creates a rich, golden topping that becomes beautifully crispy and cheesy in the oven. Sprinkle it evenly over the creamy layer on your casserole.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown. This final step melds all the flavors together and gives you that satisfying crunch that makes the Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole Recipe so beloved.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your serving with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives. These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a light, fresh note that lifts the rich flavors of the casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with hearty roasted meats like pork or chicken, but it also stands strong as a vegetarian main when teamed with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for soaking up every last bit of cheesy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve portions in individual ramekins with a delicate sprig of thyme on top. Alternatively, layer the casserole in a trifle dish for a fun, unexpected twist at your next potluck or family dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect leftover to enjoy again quickly.
Freezing
This Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole Recipe freezes well. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container to preserve it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 20 minutes or until warmed throughout. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just be sure to cover it to retain moisture and keep that topping from getting too soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the casserole?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar provides a nice tang and richness, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda for a unique flavor twist.
Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, if you choose the cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken and ensure your broth or butter is vegetarian-friendly, this dish can easily fit into a vegetarian diet.
Can I add meat to this Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole Recipe?
Definitely! Cooked, crumbled sausage or ground beef can be mixed into the cabbage before baking to make a heartier, meatier meal.
What if I don’t have Ritz crackers on hand?
No worries! You can substitute with breadcrumbs, crushed saltines, or even crushed cornflakes to achieve a similar crispy topping effect.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Use gluten-free condensed soup and gluten-free crackers to adapt this recipe. There are plenty of tasty substitutes that won’t compromise the delicious texture or flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so satisfying about this Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole Recipe that makes it a true kitchen classic worth revisiting. With its creamy layers and crunchy topping, it’s a dish that brings generations together and warms the heart with every bite. Give it a try—you might find it quickly becomes your go-to comfort food that feels both nostalgic and new at the same time.
Print
Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and nostalgic Old-Fashioned Cabbage Casserole that features tender sautéed cabbage and onions baked with creamy soup and a crunchy cheesy cracker topping. This easy-to-make casserole is a perfect side dish or light main for family dinners, showcasing classic flavors with a delightful crispy finish.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small head green cabbage
- 1 medium Vidalia onion, chopped
Dairy & Condiments
- 8 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 (10-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Other
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), coarsely crushed
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Sauté Cabbage and Onion: Coarsely chop the cabbage. Melt 8 tablespoons of butter in a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage and onion, cooking for 8 to 10 minutes while stirring frequently, until they are partially cooked down and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer Cabbage Mixture: Move the sautéed cabbage and onion mixture into the prepared casserole dish evenly.
- Prepare Creamy Topping: In a small bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken or mushroom soup with the mayonnaise. Spread this mixture evenly over the cabbage layer in the casserole dish.
- Make Cheese and Cracker Topping: In another bowl, mix together the remaining 3 tablespoons of melted butter, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and the coarsely crushed Ritz crackers. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the soup layer in the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the topping is browned and crispy, and the casserole is heated through.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken based on preference or dietary needs.
- Using Vidalia onion adds a mild, sweet flavor but feel free to use any sweet onion.
- For a vegetarian version, use cream of mushroom soup and a butter substitute.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let it set for easier portioning.
