Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• Olive oil, for cooking
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 150g ketchup
• 2 hunting sausages, sliced
• 1 cabbage, shredded
• 4 eggs
• Paprika, to taste
• Seasoning for vegetables, to taste
• Dried dill, to taste
• 150g sour cream
• 130g flour
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 180g cheese, grated

Steps to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the grated zucchini and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Cook for 5 minutes until softened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Cabbage

1. In a separate large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Blanch the shredded cabbage for 5 minutes to soften it slightly. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, and flour until smooth.
2. Add a pinch of paprika, seasoning for vegetables, and dried dill for extra flavor. Mix well.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a greased baking dish, layer the cabbage at the bottom. Spread the sautéed zucchini mixture over the cabbage.
3. Arrange the sliced hunting sausages on top.
4. Drizzle the ketchup evenly over the sausages, then layer with the sliced tomato.
5. Pour the egg and sour cream batter evenly over the dish.
6. Top with grated cheese, spreading it generously to cover the casserole.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
2. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Protein: ~14 g
• Carbohydrates: ~20 g
• Fat: ~20 g
• Fiber: ~4 g

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Smoked sausages or even plant-based alternatives work well in this recipe.

2. What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt or crème fraîche are excellent substitutes for sour cream.

3. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, omit the sausage and add mushrooms or more vegetables like bell peppers for a vegetarian version.

Tips for Making the Best Casserole

1. Blanch the Cabbage: Softening the cabbage beforehand ensures even cooking and a tender texture in the final dish.
2. Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
3. Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to create a unique taste profile.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the casserole in the oven to retain its crispy topping and fresh flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Cabbage and Sausage Casserole is much more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and the joy of cooking. The combination of tender cabbage, savory hunting sausages, creamy cheese, and a medley of vibrant vegetables creates a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. This casserole is the perfect reminder of how simple ingredients, when layered thoughtfully, can come together to create something truly special.

What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its versatility. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want a one-dish meal that’s hearty and satisfying, but it’s also elegant enough to serve to guests. The balance of textures—the soft cabbage, the slightly crisp edges of the cheese, and the juicy sausages—ensures every bite is a delightful experience. The customizable nature of the seasoning allows you to adapt the dish to suit your personal tastes or dietary preferences, making it a recipe that can evolve with you.