This Cheesy Cabbage and Potato Bake is a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. With layers of tender cabbage, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a comforting meal that’s both wholesome and delicious. Serve it as a side dish or a main course for a crowd-pleasing experience.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 900g (2 pounds) cabbage, roughly chopped
- 4 potatoes (1.35kg / 3 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Water (for boiling)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2/3 cup milk (160ml)
- 150g (5.3oz) cheese, grated (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 2-3 spring onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Cabbage
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
- Add the chopped cabbage and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Drain the cabbage and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a separate pan over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Boil the Potatoes
- Add the peeled and cubed potatoes to a pot of boiling water with a pinch of salt.
- Cook until the potatoes are soft, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
- Heat the milk in a small saucepan until it just comes to a boil.
- Pour the hot milk over the drained potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and mash until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Spread one-third of the cooked cabbage on the bottom of the dish.
- Add half of the mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle some of the grated cheese over the mashed potatoes.
Step 6: Repeat the Layers
- Add another layer of cabbage, followed by the remaining mashed potatoes.
- Top with the last portion of cabbage.
Step 7: Top with Cheese
- Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese evenly over the top of the cabbage layer.
Step 8: Bake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden-brown finish, switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
- Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with chopped spring onions if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Use warm milk and mash the potatoes while they’re hot for the smoothest texture.
- Add Extra Flavor: Incorporate minced garlic or nutmeg into the mashed potatoes for a unique twist.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Parmesan, or a mix of your favorites.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cabbage is low in calories and rich in vitamins C and K.
- Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and are a good source of potassium.
- Cheese adds protein and calcium to the dish.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Gluten-free if using gluten-free cheese.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (360°F) until warmed through.
- Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in potatoes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and satisfying, perfect for cold weather or family gatherings.
- Simple ingredients that come together in a flavorful, layered dish.
- Easily customizable with your favorite cheese and seasonings.
- A great way to use up leftover potatoes or cabbage.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Cabbage and Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy richness of mashed potatoes with the hearty goodness of cabbage and melted cheese. It’s a versatile dish that works as a main or a side, perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings. Try it today and enjoy its warm, homey flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, but the flavor and color will be slightly different. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish without baking and refrigerate. Bake just before serving. - What other vegetables can I add?
Carrots, leeks, or parsnips make excellent additions to this bake. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Try Gruyere, Parmesan, or even a spicy pepper jack for variation. - How do I prevent the dish from being watery?
Make sure to drain the cabbage and potatoes thoroughly before assembling. - Can I make it vegan?
Yes, use plant-based milk, butter, and cheese alternatives for a vegan version. - Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add a slightly sweeter flavor. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (360°F) until warmed through for the best texture. - Can I add meat to this dish?
Yes, cooked bacon, sausage, or ground meat can be layered for a non-vegetarian version. - What size baking dish should I use?
A 9×13-inch dish or similar size works well for this recipe.