Casserole with potatoes and cabbage

A casserole with potatoes and cabbage is a comforting and hearty dish that pairs the tender creaminess of potatoes with the savory crunch of cabbage. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe to make this flavorful casserole:

Potato and Cabbage Casserole

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice, like Monterey Jack or Gruyère)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare Cabbage:

   • Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer softer cabbage, you can blanch it in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before using it. Drain and set aside.

3. Cook Aromatics:

   • Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

4. Prepare Sauce:

   • In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the milk or heavy cream until smooth.
   • Stir in the cooked onion and garlic mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme or rosemary.

5. Assemble Casserole:

   • In a large baking dish, arrange a layer of potato slices on the bottom.
   • Spread half of the chopped cabbage over the potatoes.
   • Pour half of the soup mixture over the potatoes and cabbage.
   • Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the soup mixture.
   • Add another layer of potato slices, followed by the remaining cabbage.
   • Pour the remaining soup mixture over the top.
   • Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the casserole.

6. Add Topping (Optional):

   • For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.

7. Bake:

   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
   • After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Serve:

   • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations:

• Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as Swiss, Gruyère, or mozzarella for varied flavors.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the soup mixture for some heat.
• Healthier Option: Use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version.

This potato and cabbage casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect as a main course or a side. Enjoy your delicious and satisfying meal!