This Sausage and Cabbage Cheesy Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that combines savory sausage, tender cabbage, and a cheesy, creamy sauce. Baked to perfection, it’s the ultimate comfort food with rich flavors and a satisfying texture. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and works well as a family meal or for meal prepping.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 sausages (your choice of pork, chicken, or turkey)
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix of your choice)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/4 tsp ground mustard (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook the Sausage:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the sausages until browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove from the pan and slice into rounds. - Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage starts to soften. - Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream (or cream cheese), milk, and a pinch of salt, black pepper, paprika, and mustard (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy. - Assemble the Bake:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large baking dish, combine the cooked sausage slices and sautéed cabbage mixture. Pour the sauce over the top and mix gently to combine. - Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes.
- Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
- For a low-carb option, serve with steamed vegetables or a cauliflower mash.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Enjoy as a hearty lunch or dinner with crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Tips:
- Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as spicy sausage or chicken sausage, for a different flavor profile.
- If you like a crispier top, broil the bake for 2-3 minutes after baking to get the cheese golden and bubbly.
- For added flavor, try sautéing the cabbage with a little bacon or pancetta.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in protein from the sausage and cheese.
- Cabbage provides fiber and essential vitamins like vitamin C and K.
- The dish offers healthy fats from the cheese and sour cream, adding to its richness.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-free (ensure sausage is gluten-free).
- Can be made low-carb if served without bread or potatoes.
- Option to make dairy-free by using a dairy-free cheese and cream substitute.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 20g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The cheesy, creamy texture paired with sausage and cabbage makes it a rich and satisfying meal.
- It’s versatile and can be modified to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- A one-dish meal that is perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
Conclusion:
This Sausage and Cabbage Cheesy Bake is the ultimate comfort food that is easy to make, filling, and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty, satisfying dish that will please the whole family. Whether served for dinner or meal prep, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your rotation. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian sausage. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. - Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the sour cream, cream cheese, and cheese with dairy-free alternatives. - How do I make the bake spicier?
You can use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the sauce mixture. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, the bake can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, Swiss, or gouda. - Can I make this without the bread?
Yes, the bread is optional for croutons. You can skip it or use gluten-free bread if necessary. - Is this dish low-carb?
If you skip the bread, it becomes a lower-carb dish. You can also serve it with a side of low-carb vegetables. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.