Method 1: Oven-Baked Cabbage Casserole
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the Cabbage:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic over medium heat until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Mix the Casserole:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onions, garlic, cooked cabbage, shredded carrots, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If you like a crunchy topping, mix the bread crumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
7. Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Method 2: Air-Fried Cabbage Casserole
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Cabbage:
Follow the same steps as in the oven-baked method to prepare and cook the cabbage, onions, and garlic.
3. Mix the Casserole:
Combine the sautéed onions, garlic, cooked cabbage, shredded carrots, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and seasonings in a large mixing bowl.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Instead of a large baking dish, use individual ramekins or a smaller baking dish that fits inside your air fryer basket. Divide the mixture evenly between the ramekins or place it all in the smaller dish.
5. Air Fry:
Place the ramekins or dish in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, checking occasionally. The casserole should be golden and bubbling when done.
6. Serve:
Let the casserole cool slightly, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
Cheese Selection: Feel free to mix and match cheeses. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella or even Gruyère can add a unique flavor.
Make-Ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day ahead. Simply assemble, cover, and refrigerate. Bake or air fry just before serving.
Extra Crunch: For an even crispier topping, add crushed crackers or crispy fried onions on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions:
Main Dish: Serve this casserole as a vegetarian main course with a side of crusty bread.
Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted pork for a hearty meal.
Leftovers: The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers perfect for lunch the next day.
Storing and Reheating:
Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the air fryer for about 5 minutes.
Conclusion:
This Easy and Delicious Cabbage Casserole with Cheddar Cheese is a versatile and comforting dish that can be tailored to your cooking preferences. Whether you choose to bake it in the oven or air fry it, you’ll love the creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy flavor that comes with each bite. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy!
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