This Cabbage and Mozzarella Casserole is a flavorful and comforting dish made with fresh cabbage, cherry tomatoes, and a creamy egg mixture, all topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s easy to prepare, baked to perfection, and makes a great side dish or even a light main course. The combination of vegetables, eggs, and cheese provides a balance of nutrients and flavor that everyone will enjoy.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
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Cuisine: Comfort Food (Ideal for a light main course or side dish)
Full List of Ingredients
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250g cabbage (shredded)
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10-12 cherry tomatoes (halved)
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
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¼ onion (finely chopped)
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3 large eggs
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A pinch of salt
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2 tablespoons sour cream
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Olive oil (for greasing)
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100g mozzarella cheese (about 1 cup, grated)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
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Shred the cabbage and set it aside.
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Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside.
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Chop the fresh parsley and finely chop the onion.
2. Make the Egg Mixture
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In a bowl, beat the 3 eggs until well combined.
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Add a pinch of salt and 2 tablespoons of sour cream to the eggs. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
3. Assemble the Casserole
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Grease the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Layer the Ingredients: Spread the shredded cabbage evenly in the greased baking dish. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and finely chopped onion over the cabbage. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the vegetables. Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top.
4. Add Cheese and Bake
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Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
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Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and the eggs are set.
5. Serve Hot
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Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 210
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Fat: 15g
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Protein: 12g
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Carbohydrates: 8g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugars: 4g
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Sodium: 230mg
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This Cabbage and Mozzarella Casserole draws inspiration from simple, comfort food recipes that rely on easily accessible ingredients. Cabbage is a versatile vegetable that pairs well with eggs and cheese, making this casserole an ideal dish for any time of the day. It is popular in many European cuisines where cabbage is a staple ingredient.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with cabbage, a great source of fiber and vitamins, this casserole is a wholesome dish with a rich, savory flavor from the mozzarella cheese and sour cream.
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Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can have this casserole in the oven and ready to serve in under an hour.
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Versatile: Serve it as a main dish for a light meal or as a side to your favorite protein like chicken or fish.
Health Benefits
This casserole is full of nutritious ingredients. Cabbage is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, supporting immune health and digestion. Eggs provide a good source of protein, and the addition of mozzarella cheese gives you calcium and healthy fats. The sour cream adds creaminess while keeping the dish light and balanced.
Serving Suggestions
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With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad or a cucumber and tomato salad for a light, balanced meal.
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As a Side Dish: Pair with roasted meats or grilled chicken for a complete dinner.
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For Breakfast or Brunch: Enjoy this casserole as a savory breakfast or brunch dish alongside a slice of whole grain toast.
Cooking Tips
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Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh cabbage will give you the best texture in the casserole, but you can use pre-shredded cabbage if you’re short on time.
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Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
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Check for Doneness: Make sure the egg mixture is fully set before removing the casserole from the oven. If it’s still runny, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Variations to Try
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Add Bacon: For extra flavor, sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top before baking.
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Spicy Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
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Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a dairy-free sour cream substitute.
Conclusion
This Cabbage and Mozzarella Casserole is a perfect blend of savory flavors and textures, making it a great addition to any meal. Whether you serve it as a light main dish or as a side, it’s sure to satisfy with its creamy, cheesy goodness and fresh vegetable base.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the oven before serving.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Once baked, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat it in the oven when ready to serve.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or feta if you prefer.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I make this casserole without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a flax egg or another egg replacer for a vegan version.
6. Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, you can add other vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli for added texture and flavor.
7. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free and gluten-free option to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
8. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the casserole.
9. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the egg mixture is fully set.
10. Can I make this casserole spicier?
Yes, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to the egg mixture for extra heat.