If you are looking for a soul-warming dish that combines the rich creaminess of cheese, the smoky goodness of bacon, and the comforting texture of tender cabbage, this Creamy Cabbage Casserole with Bacon Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a gratifying casserole that turns simple, humble ingredients into a luscious meal everyone will crave. Each bite is loaded with layers of flavor and that perfect balance of crispy bacon and smooth creaminess, making it a guaranteed hit for family dinners or potlucks alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this creamy casserole are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. From the smoky bacon that adds crunch and depth, to the fresh cabbage that brings a gentle earthiness, every element contributes to the irresistible texture and vibrant color of this meal.
- Bacon (6 slices, chopped): Adds a smoky, crispy contrast that makes every bite unforgettable.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Brings sweetness and a soft bite that melts into the creamy base.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses a subtle aromatic punch enhancing the overall flavor.
- Green cabbage (1 medium head, chopped): The star vegetable providing sweetness and crunch once baked.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the silky, luscious texture that coats the cabbage beautifully.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Boosts richness and smoothness for that perfect creamy consistency.
- Cheddar cheese (1½ cups shredded): Adds sharp, melty goodness that binds the casserole together.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): A subtle spice that balances the creaminess.
- Paprika (¼ teaspoon, optional): Introduces a gentle warmth and color to the dish.
How to Make Creamy Cabbage Casserole with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures your casserole will bake evenly and come out effortlessly when it’s done.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon Until Crispy
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s gloriously crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside, but keep around one tablespoon of that flavorful bacon grease in the pan — it’s liquid gold for cooking your onions.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Using the bacon grease, sauté the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until it’s soft and tender. Immediately add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until fragrant, releasing all those delicious aromas.
Step 4: Cook the Cabbage Just Until Tender
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the cabbage to soften but still maintain a bit of crunch; this texture will hold beautifully once baked.
Step 5: Whisk Your Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, half the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika if you’re using it. This creates a luxuriously smooth sauce that will coat the cabbage perfectly.
Step 6: Combine Cabbage Mixture with Sauce and Bacon
Pour the cabbage mixture into the bowl with the creamy sauce and stir gently to coat everything evenly. Then fold in most of the crispy bacon, saving a little for topping.
Step 7: Assemble and Top the Casserole
Transfer the coated cabbage into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and reserved bacon over the top, creating a cheesy, crispy crust that bakes to golden perfection.
Step 8: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top has turned a beautiful, light golden brown. This baked goodness will be irresistible.
Step 9: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes. This step lets the flavors meld further and the dish sets slightly for easier and neater serving.
How to Serve Creamy Cabbage Casserole with Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and freshness, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives on top adds a vibrant green note that complements the rich casserole beautifully. A small dollop of sour cream can also enhance the creamy experience.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes like a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette or some roasted root vegetables. It also works perfectly alongside crusty bread or garlic mashed potatoes for a truly comforting plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming presentation at dinner parties. Alternatively, topping with finely chopped green onions or a dusting of smoked paprika can add a gourmet flair that wows your guests effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next-day casserole taste even better.
Freezing
This creamy cabbage casserole freezes well! Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave for a quicker option, stirring occasionally to ensure the creamy sauce is evenly heated and deliciously smooth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, you can try gouda, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for a slightly different flavor and texture that suits your taste buds.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the bacon and add a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky depth. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu to keep it hearty.
Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble everything up to the baking step, cover the dish, and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking cold.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half mixed with a little melted butter to mimic the richness of heavy cream, but keep in mind the texture may be slightly lighter.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, so no modifications are necessary for those avoiding gluten — enjoy with complete peace of mind!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cabbage Casserole with Bacon Recipe is the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to make, deeply satisfying, and full of flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. I really encourage you to give it a try because it turns humble ingredients into something truly special. Your family and friends will thank you over and over again!
Print
Creamy Cabbage Casserole with Bacon Recipe
- 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 flavorful dish that combines tender sautéed cabbage with a rich and cheesy cream sauce, topped with crispy bacon. Perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying main, this casserole bakes to bubbly golden perfection in under an hour.
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 6–7 cups)
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet for added flavor.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, just until the cabbage is slightly softened but still retains some bite.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Cabbage and Sauce: Add the slightly cooked cabbage mixture to the cream sauce in the bowl. Stir well to coat the cabbage evenly. Fold in most of the crispy bacon, reserving some for topping.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese and reserved bacon over the top for a deliciously cheesy and crispy finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, the cheese is melted, and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and to make slicing easier.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, omit the paprika or substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky essence.
- To make this dish vegetarian, omit bacon and use smoked cheese or add smoked paprika to replicate smoky flavor.
- Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter casserole, but the texture will be less creamy.
- This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can be served as a hearty standalone meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
