Are you tired of boring vegetable side dishes that leave you wanting more? Get ready to transform the humble cabbage into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds! This Baked Cabbage with Cheese and Nuts is not just a recipe – it's a flavor explosion that combines crispy textures, rich cheesy goodness, and a nutty crunch that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a vegetable skeptic or a health-conscious foodie, this dish is about to change everything you thought you knew about cabbage.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Wash the cabbage thoroughly and chop it into roughly uniform bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly similar in size for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the chopped cabbage with olive oil, making sure each piece is lightly coated. Season generously with salt and pepper, mixing well to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Spread the seasoned cabbage pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer that allows for even heat distribution.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with half of the shredded cheese, creating a crunchy topping mixture.
- Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the cabbage, distributing them evenly across the surface.
- Cover the cabbage with the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, ensuring complete coverage for a golden, crispy top.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, allowing it to melt slightly from the residual heat.
- Serve hot as a side dish or light main course, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Cabbage: Select a firm, heavy cabbage with crisp, bright green leaves for the best flavor and texture.
- Even Chopping is Key: Cut cabbage into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Don't Skimp on Seasoning: Be generous with salt and pepper – cabbage loves bold flavors!
- Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar works great, feel free to experiment with gruyère, parmesan, or a cheese blend for extra depth.
- Nut Options: Toasting the nuts before adding them can enhance their flavor and add an extra layer of crunch.
- Watch the Browning: Keep an eye on the top layer during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to prevent burning while achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for 5 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier. Pro Tip: This versatile dish can be a show-stopping side or a satisfying vegetarian main course that will impress even the pickiest eaters!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
