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Creamy Cabbage Casserole with Bacon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 80 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Creamy Cabbage Casserole with Bacon is a comforting and savory dish featuring tender cabbage cooked with crispy bacon, onions, and garlic, all combined in a luscious creamy cheese sauce and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a hearty side or main dish, this casserole blends creamy textures and smoky flavors for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.


Ingredients

Meat and Dairy

  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped (about 67 cups)

Seasonings

  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare it for the casserole.
  2. Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan for added flavor.
  3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the bacon grease and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, enhancing the aromatic base of the dish.
  4. Cook Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This softens the cabbage slightly without fully cooking it, maintaining some texture for the casserole.
  5. Prepare Cream Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture.
  6. Combine Mixtures: Add the cooked cabbage mixture to the bowl with the cream sauce and stir well to coat the cabbage evenly. Fold in most of the crispy bacon, reserving some for topping.
  7. Assemble Casserole: Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and reserved bacon over the top for a tasty, cheesy crust.
  8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes. Bake until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly golden, indicating a perfect meld of flavors.
  9. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and enhances the texture and flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute sharp cheddar cheese or add a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
  • For a less rich version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the casserole will be creamier with heavy cream.
  • If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the paprika or reduce the amount.
  • This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.