This Bacon Cabbage Potato Casserole with Cheesy Cracker Topping is a warm, comforting, and indulgent baked dish that blends the rustic charm of traditional European ingredients with a satisfying modern twist. It combines layers of creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed onions and garlic, hearty cabbage, smoky bacon (Speck), and melted cheese—all topped with a buttery cracker and panko crust for a deliciously crisp finish.
The base of this casserole is a savory blend of potatoes and tender cabbage, which soaks up the flavor of garlic, onions, and bacon fat. It’s then enriched with milk, melted butter, and plenty of cheese for a gooey, satisfying texture. The topping, made with crushed crackers and panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, adds crunch and depth, while fresh dill and parsley add bursts of herbal brightness.
This dish is ideal for cozy family dinners, potlucks, holiday gatherings, or anytime you’re craving something hearty and filling. It brings together simple pantry staples and turns them into a standout casserole that pleases every palate.
Preparation Time
35 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 20 minutes
Yield
Serves 6–8
Cuisine
Central European / German-inspired Comfort Food
Ingredients
-
300 g Speck (smoked cured bacon)
-
50 g butter (plus extra for the topping)
-
1 kg potatoes
-
Salt to taste
-
1 onion, finely chopped
-
2 garlic cloves, minced
-
1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
-
Spring onions, sliced
-
Fresh parsley, chopped
-
Ground black pepper to taste
-
250 ml milk
-
30 g butter (for mashed potatoes)
-
200 g cheese (grated, melting cheese like gouda or mozzarella)
-
100 g crushed crackers (e.g., buttery or salty crackers)
-
30 g panko breadcrumbs
-
50 g melted butter (for topping)
-
Fresh dill for garnish
Directions
1. Cook the Speck:
Begin by chopping the Speck into small pieces. In a large skillet or frying pan, render the Speck over medium heat until crispy and golden. Remove it from the pan and set aside, leaving the flavorful fat behind for cooking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Peel and chop the potatoes into large chunks. Boil in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well.
3. Make the Mash:
While the potatoes are still hot, mash them with 30 g of butter, milk, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Sauté Aromatics:
In the bacon fat left in the pan, sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Cook the Cabbage:
Add chopped cabbage to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, sautéed cabbage mixture, crispy Speck, sliced spring onions, and chopped parsley. Fold in 200 g of grated cheese and stir to combine.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the potato-cabbage mixture to a greased baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Prepare the Topping:
Crush the crackers and combine with panko breadcrumbs. Stir in 50 g of melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
9. Bake:
Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy and the cheese is bubbling.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped dill over the top. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
-
Calories: 530
-
Protein: 17g
-
Carbohydrates: 36g
-
Fat: 35g
-
Fiber: 4g
-
Calcium: 25% DV
-
Iron: 18% DV
-
Vitamin C: 40% DV
-
Vitamin A: 15% DV
Origin and Popularity
This dish is inspired by traditional German and Eastern European flavors—where cabbage, potatoes, and cured meats are foundational ingredients. The addition of a cheese layer and crispy topping gives it an American casserole vibe, blending both rustic and comforting culinary traditions into one satisfying dish. It’s especially popular in cold weather months, during festive holidays, or as a crowd-pleasing bake for family gatherings.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
-
Full of classic, hearty flavors
-
Cheesy, crispy, and comforting
-
Great for leftovers and reheats beautifully
-
Perfect for feeding a crowd
-
Made with affordable pantry staples
-
Freezer-friendly and meal-prep friendly
Health Benefits
-
Cabbage is high in fiber and packed with vitamin K and antioxidants.
-
Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, potassium, and magnesium for energy and bone health.
-
Speck (bacon) adds protein and important fats for satiety.
-
Garlic and onion support immune function and cardiovascular health.
-
Parsley and dill are fresh herbs rich in vitamin C and iron.
-
Cheese adds calcium and protein, essential for bone and muscle strength.
Serving Suggestions
-
Serve with a light green salad or pickled vegetables for balance.
-
A dollop of sour cream or creme fraiche on the side works beautifully.
-
Add a slice of rustic bread or buttered rye toast for a hearty meal.
-
For dinner parties, serve alongside a glass of Riesling or light beer.
-
Pairs well with roasted root vegetables or braised greens.
Cooking Tips
-
Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for creamier mash that holds together well.
-
Drain potatoes well before mashing to prevent watery texture.
-
Cook the cabbage thoroughly to remove bitterness and bring out sweetness.
-
Add more cheese between the layers if you want an extra gooey bite.
-
Let rest before serving to allow the casserole to firm up for cleaner slices.
Variations
-
Vegetarian version: Omit the Speck and add sautéed mushrooms or lentils for umami depth.
-
Low-carb twist: Substitute mashed cauliflower for the potatoes.
-
Extra creamy: Stir a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the mash.
-
Add spice: Mix in chili flakes or chopped jalapeños for a kick.
-
Kid-friendly: Replace herbs with a pinch of Italian seasoning and use mild cheddar.
-
Make it ahead: Assemble up to a day in advance and bake just before serving.
Conclusion
This Bacon Cabbage Potato Casserole is a celebration of rustic cooking elevated with cheesy, crispy goodness. It delivers the soul-soothing comfort of mashed potatoes, the vibrant bite of cabbage, and the irresistible smokiness of Speck. Whether you serve it as a main dish on a chilly night or as a holiday side, this casserole will win hearts at first bite. The balance of textures, layered flavors, and creamy richness makes this one of those go-to recipes you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use regular bacon instead of Speck?
Yes, any smoked bacon will work. Just make sure to cook it until crispy and use the fat for sautéing the vegetables.
2. What type of cheese works best?
Mild melting cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a sharp cheddar are great options.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free crackers and omit the panko or replace with crushed gluten-free cornflakes.
4. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble everything and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
5. How do I reheat leftovers?
Cover with foil and warm in a 180°C oven for 15–20 minutes. Microwave works too but may soften the topping.
6. Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze the baked or unbaked casserole, wrapped tightly. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.
7. Is cabbage necessary or can I use another vegetable?
You can swap cabbage for shredded Brussels sprouts, kale, or spinach.
8. What can I serve with this dish?
A simple cucumber salad or pickled red onions make a nice refreshing side.
9. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Fresh potatoes are preferred for texture and flavor, but high-quality instant mash can be used in a pinch.
10. Is this dish suitable for kids?
Yes, kids usually love the cheesy, mashed potato base. You can reduce herbs or spices to suit their tastes.