Easy Cabbage Casserole Recipe to Make Tonight

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If you’re craving comfort food but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this easy cabbage casserole delivers all the flavors of classic cabbage rolls with a fraction of the effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, budget-friendly family dinners, or those nights when you need something hearty, simple, and satisfying. With tender cabbage, savory beef, a creamy layer, and a crisp cheese-and-cracker topping, everyone at the table is in for a treat.

Why This Cabbage Casserole Stands Out

Cabbage casseroles are beloved for their nostalgic charm and practical simplicity. What makes this version special is its balance of flavors and textures. You get a blend of mellow cabbage, browned beef, and a rich, creamy binder—all under a golden, cheesy crust. No rolling or fuss involved, and cleanup is quick.

Plus, cabbage is an affordable vegetable packed with fiber and nutrients, making this dish as wholesome as it is tasty. Enjoy generous portions now and save the leftovers for easy meals later in the week.

Ingredients

You don’t need rare or expensive items. Everything on this list is easy to find and budget-friendly. Here’s what you’ll need:

Optional Add-ins

• Garlic, minced (1-2 cloves)
• Paprika or smoked paprika (¼ tsp)
• Red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño for heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to bring it all together. You won’t need special skills—just follow the sequence for reliable results every time.

1. Prep the Veggies

• Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage.
• Chop into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch squares.
• Slice or dice the onion.

Tip: If you want smaller pieces, slice the cabbage thinner, but avoid bagged coleslaw mix—it turns mushy.

2. Brown the Beef

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onions over medium heat.
• Season with a bit of salt and pepper.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking up the meat and stirring, until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
• Drain excess fat.

3. Assemble the Creamy Layer

• In a mixing bowl, combine browned beef and onions, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and a spoonful of melted butter.
• Mix until smooth and evenly combined.

Tip: For added depth, mix in a sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika.

4. Layer in the Baking Dish

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
• Spread the chopped cabbage in an even layer across the bottom.
• Pour the beef and cream mixture over the cabbage, spreading gently to cover.

5. Make the Crunchy Topping

• Crush the crackers in a zip-top bag using a rolling pin (small pieces are fine, but avoid turning them to dust).
• In a small bowl, toss the crushed crackers, shredded cheddar, and the rest of the melted butter until everything is coated.
• Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole.

Variations to Try

Casserole recipes welcome creativity. Here are a few ideas to make this dish your own:

Healthier Swaps

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Greek yogurt can replace some or all of the mayonnaise for lower fat.
• Opt for reduced-fat cheese and low-sodium soup.

Cheese Lovers’ Style

• Mix multiple cheeses—try mozzarella for stretch, gouda for smokiness, or Colby Jack for extra creaminess.

Bring the Spice

• Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef as it cooks.
• For warmth, toss in half a teaspoon of smoked paprika.

Serving Suggestions

Wondering what to pair with this easy casserole? Round out your meal with color and crunch:

• Fresh salad: A crisp garden or Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and feta adds brightness.
• Roasted vegetables: Brussels sprouts or broccoli bring a roasted, caramelized flavor.
• Potatoes: Try rosemary-roasted potatoes or simple mashed potatoes if you want extra comfort.
• Crusty bread: Great for sopping up any extra sauce.

This casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but these sides make for a well-balanced plate.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating

Casseroles are made for leftovers. Here’s how to keep yours fresh:

Storing

• Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature.
• Cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer to a lidded container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Place cooled casserole (whole or individual portions) in freezer-safe containers.
• Label with the date.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Whole casserole: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbling.
• Single servings: Microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot.

Tip: Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before reheating for an extra cheesy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead?

Yes. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving. If starting from cold, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?

Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup work well. Or, make your own white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and seasonings as a homemade substitute.

Can I Use Red Cabbage?

Green cabbage is preferred here for its mild taste and texture, but red cabbage will work if that’s what you have. It’ll add a pop of color and a touch of earthiness to the dish.

Tips for the Best Cabbage Casserole

• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and flavor.
• Avoid overmixing the cracker topping—chunky bits mean extra crunch.
• Always taste and adjust seasonings before baking.
• For extra flavor, stir a teaspoon of Dijon mustard into the creamy beef layer.
• Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving so it holds together better.

Recipe Summary

This cabbage casserole satisfies cravings for classic comfort with modern ease. No rolling, no frying—just a baked, creamy, golden meal for the whole family. Make it your own with creative add-ins or stick with the basics when you need dinner fast. From prepping the cabbage to bubbling the cheese-cracker crust, each step is simple and rewarding. Serve it straight from the oven, enjoy leftovers reheated, and keep this affordable, crowd-pleasing recipe in your rotation all year long.