Cheesy Cabbage Bake

Cheesy Cabbage Bake is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the mild flavor of tender cabbage with a rich, cheesy topping. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a family dinner or as a side dish at a potluck. It’s loaded with protein from eggs and yogurt, and the melty mozzarella cheese adds an irresistible finish. A golden-brown bake with a soft interior and a crispy top, this dish brings the humble cabbage to a whole new level of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup plain low-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (use vegan mayo if preferred)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 pound cabbage (about 6 cups, thinly sliced)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• A pinch of black pepper
• 1 1/3 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
• Butter (for greasing the baking dish)
• Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8 or 9-inch round baking dish with butter or neutral cooking oil spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, yogurt, and mayonnaise until fully combined. Set this mixture aside.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and black pepper. Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the wet egg mixture until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.
4. Prep the Cabbage:
   • Thinly slice the cabbage, place it in a separate bowl, and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Massage the cabbage with your hands to soften it and release some of its natural juices. This step also helps the cabbage absorb the seasoning.
5. Assemble the Bake:
   • Evenly layer the softened cabbage in the greased baking dish. Pour the prepared batter over the cabbage, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
6. Top with Cheese and Bake:
   • Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the cabbage and batter mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bake is set.
7. Let It Cool:
   • Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the bake to firm up for easier serving.
8. Serve and Garnish:
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with a side of yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.

Cooking Tips:

• Customize the Cheese: You can experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Vegetables: For extra texture and nutrition, add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the mix.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make this dish gluten-free.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan cheese and egg substitutes to make this recipe entirely plant-based.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Cabbage: High in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K, cabbage promotes digestive health and supports a strong immune system.
• Eggs: A great source of protein, eggs provide essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and choline.
• Yogurt: Adds probiotics and protein, supporting digestive health and providing a creamy texture without excess fat.
• Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese contributes calcium and protein while keeping the dish light with its mild flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Cheesy Goodness: The golden mozzarella topping creates a crisp, flavorful layer that contrasts beautifully with the tender cabbage.
• Easy and Convenient: This dish requires only simple ingredients and can be prepped in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Light and Filling: The eggs and yogurt provide a light yet satisfying base that doesn’t feel heavy but still fills you up.
• Versatile Dish: It works as a main dish or a side, and pairs well with meats or other vegetables.

Dietary Information:

• Low-Carb Friendly: With cabbage as the main ingredient, this bake is naturally lower in carbs than many other casseroles.
• Vegetarian: This dish is fully vegetarian, but with minor adjustments (vegan mayo and cheese), it can be made vegan-friendly too.
• High Protein: Eggs, yogurt, and cheese contribute to the high protein content, making this a satisfying option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Why This Recipe Works: The combination of cabbage, eggs, and cheese creates a savory, creamy texture with a nice contrast between the soft interior and crispy, cheesy top. The eggs bind everything together, while the yogurt adds creaminess without making the dish overly heavy. The mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, forming a golden crust that makes each bite irresistible. The baking process ensures that the cabbage softens perfectly, blending with the flavors of the other ingredients.

Conclusion: This Cheesy Cabbage Bake is the perfect mix of simplicity and flavor. It transforms humble cabbage into a delicious, cheesy delight that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With its creamy texture and golden, crispy top, this dish is sure to become a new favorite, whether served as a side dish or a main course. Ideal for any meal, this recipe proves that comfort food can also be nutritious and easy to make.