Let me tell you, easy scalloped cabbage is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate! It’s incredibly simple to whip up, yet it brings out the natural sweetness of the cabbage in a way that makes everyone ask for seconds. I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering; my aunt couldn’t believe how delicious cabbage could be! The creamy sauce, with just a hint of nutmeg, wraps the cabbage in a velvety embrace that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, this dish is a game-changer, perfect for any meal or gathering!
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, sliced: Choose a fresh head of cabbage, and slice it into thin strips to ensure even cooking. This is the star of the dish, so pick one that feels firm and has vibrant green leaves.
- 2 cups heavy cream: This creamy magic is what gives the dish its luscious texture. Full-fat heavy cream works best here to make sure every bite is rich and satisfying.
- 1 cup grated cheese (Cheddar or Gruyere): I love using sharp Cheddar for its tangy flavor, but Gruyere adds a wonderful nutty nuance. Feel free to mix and match your favorites!
- 2 tablespoons butter: Butter adds a beautiful richness to the sauce. Make sure it’s unsalted for better control over the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: This is our thickener! It helps create that velvety sauce that coats the cabbage perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt: A must for enhancing all the flavors in the dish. You can adjust this based on your taste preferences.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a nice kick without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: This brings a subtle warmth to the dish. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to adjust to taste!
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Just a hint of nutmeg elevates the whole dish, adding a touch of warmth and complexity that pairs beautifully with the cream.
How to Prepare Easy Scalloped Cabbage
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your scalloped cabbage will bake evenly and get that lovely golden finish. While that’s warming up, fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil—this is crucial because the salt helps enhance the flavor of the cabbage during blanching. Once boiling, carefully add your sliced cabbage and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes. You want it tender but still crisp, so keep a close eye on it. After blanching, drain the cabbage and set it aside; this step really helps to brighten and soften the cabbage without losing its vibrant color!
Make the Cream Sauce
Now, let’s dive into the creamy goodness! In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s bubbling gently. Then, whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute—this is your roux, and it should smell slightly nutty. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring as the sauce thickens; you’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of your spoon—this usually takes around 5-7 minutes. Finally, stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. The sauce should be rich and flavorful, making you want to dive right in!
Assemble and Bake
Time to bring it all together! In a greased baking dish, start layering the blanched cabbage and pour the creamy sauce over it, making sure every piece of cabbage is well-coated. Then, sprinkle your grated cheese generously on top—don’t be shy here; a good layer of cheese is key to that delightful bubbly crust! Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and bubbly, and your kitchen smells absolutely divine. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving, so the sauce can set a bit. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you dig into this comforting dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can have this delicious side dish ready to go in no time!
- Rich, creamy flavor: The combination of heavy cream and cheese creates a decadent sauce that elevates the humble cabbage to new heights.
- Versatile side dish for various meals: Whether you’re serving it with roasted meats, fish, or plant-based dishes, this scalloped cabbage pairs beautifully with just about anything.
- Great for gatherings and family dinners: This dish is always a crowd-pleaser! It’s comforting, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Tips for Success
To really nail this easy scalloped cabbage, let me share some of my favorite tips that’ll make it even more delicious and foolproof!
- Choose the Right Cabbage: Look for a firm head of cabbage with vibrant green leaves. Napa cabbage works great too if you want a slightly sweeter flavor and more delicate texture!
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Blanching the cabbage is crucial, but be careful not to overdo it! You want it tender but with a bit of crunch left; this helps maintain its texture during baking.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While Cheddar and Gruyere are classic choices, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like Fontina or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a sharp, savory finish. Mixing different cheeses can also add layers of flavor!
- Boost the Flavor: For a savory twist, consider adding cooked bacon or diced ham to the layers. It adds a delicious smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the creaminess.
- Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley sprinkled on top before serving not only add a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that’s simply delightful!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. It makes entertaining a breeze!
- Watch for the Golden Crust: Keep an eye on the oven towards the end of baking. You want that bubbly, golden crust on top—if it’s browning too quickly, just cover it with foil to prevent burning.
With these tips up your sleeve, you’ll not only avoid common pitfalls but also elevate your scalloped cabbage to a whole new level of deliciousness. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying easy scalloped cabbage, it’s nice to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving, which is about 1 cup. Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on common ingredients and can vary depending on your specific choices.
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
So, while this dish is creamy and comforting, it also offers a nice balance of flavors and nutrients! Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to something special.
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Absolutely! While I love green cabbage for this recipe, you can experiment with Savoy or Napa cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor. They’ll still work beautifully in this dish!
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter. Just keep in mind that it may not be as rich, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the scalloped cabbage a day in advance up to the baking step. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven and bake as directed. It’s a great time-saver for gatherings!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover scalloped cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven until warmed through, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry!
Can I add other ingredients?
Definitely! This recipe is super flexible. You can add cooked bacon, ham, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor. Just layer them in with the cabbage for a heartier dish.
What should I serve with scalloped cabbage?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even a simple salad. It’s a fantastic side dish that complements many main courses, so feel free to get creative!
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes! As it stands, this easy scalloped cabbage is vegetarian-friendly. If you want to keep it that way, just skip any meat additions.
How can I make it gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the sauce. It’ll work just as well!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your delicious easy scalloped cabbage, you might find yourself with some leftovers—and that’s a win in my book! To store them properly, let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent any moisture from ruining that creamy goodness. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain the dish’s creamy texture and prevent it from becoming rubbery. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the scalloped cabbage to an oven-safe dish if it’s not already. Cover it with foil to keep it moist, and bake for about 20 minutes or until it’s heated through. If you want to crisp up the cheese on top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, just be sure to cover them to avoid drying out the dish.
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the comfort of your scalloped cabbage even after the first serving—what’s not to love?
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Easy Scalloped Cabbage: 5 Steps to Comfort Food Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for scalloped cabbage that highlights the vegetable’s natural flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated cheese (Cheddar or Gruyere)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Add sliced cabbage and blanch for 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- In a greased baking dish, layer cabbage and sauce. Sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses.
- Try adding cooked bacon or ham for extra protein.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: scalloped cabbage, easy cabbage recipe, baked cabbage dish, creamy cabbage
