Old Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole
There’s something undeniably comforting about a good ol’ Southern casserole, and this Old Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole is the ultimate cozy, home-cooked dish. Think tender cabbage, a creamy, flavorful sauce, and a golden, crispy topping that adds just the right amount of crunch. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia, making you feel like you’re right back in grandma’s kitchen. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!
Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole
Versatile
This casserole is perfect for any occasion. Serve it as a hearty side dish for Sunday dinner, bring it to a potluck, or enjoy it as a main dish when you’re craving something warm and satisfying.
Budget-Friendly
Cabbage is one of the most affordable veggies out there, and it stretches beautifully in a casserole. This dish is easy on the wallet but big on flavor.
Quick and Easy
No fancy techniques required! With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish in no time.
Customizable
Want to add some protein? Toss in ground beef or sausage. Prefer a bit of spice? A dash of hot sauce does wonders. The possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing
A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Old Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole
Here’s the magic of this casserole—it’s made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully.
Cabbage: The heart of this dish! Tender, slightly sweet cabbage softens and soaks up all the delicious flavors as it bakes.
Butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor that makes everything taste better.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: The secret ingredient to a creamy, savory sauce that ties everything together.
Cheddar Cheese: Melty, gooey, and perfectly sharp—it gives this casserole its irresistible cheesiness.
Crushed Crackers: The crispy, golden topping that adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder enhances the flavors without overpowering the dish.

Instructions
Preheat Your Equipment
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures even baking and allows the casserole to cook perfectly.
Prepare the Cabbage
Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes until slightly tender. Drain well.
Layer the Ingredients
In a greased baking dish, spread the cabbage evenly. This creates the perfect base for all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Make the Sauce
In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with melted butter and seasonings. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Casserole
Pour the creamy sauce over the cabbage, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, then finish with a layer of crushed crackers.
Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Finishing Touches
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps everything set so you get the perfect scoop every time.
Serve and Enjoy
Scoop out a generous portion and dig in! Whether served as a side or a main dish, this casserole is pure comfort in every bite.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 220
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on ingredients used.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
How to Serve Old Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve it alongside crispy fried chicken for a classic Southern meal.
- Pair it with cornbread to soak up all that creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Enjoy it with roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Add a simple side salad for a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- For extra richness: Swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Just bake when ready to serve.
- Add some protein: Browned ground beef or cooked bacon bits make a delicious addition.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce can give it a little heat.
- Storage tip: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Yes, but keep in mind that red cabbage has a slightly stronger taste and may change the color of the dish.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
3. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
4. How do I keep the cracker topping crispy?
Bake the casserole uncovered, and if needed, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crunch.
5. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Freeze it before baking, then thaw and bake when needed. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before storing.
6. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is the best choice, but you can also use a mix of cheeses like Colby Jack or Monterey Jack.
7. Can I make this without cheese?
Of course! It will still be delicious, though the cheese adds a nice richness to the dish.
8. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to keep the texture crispy. Microwave works too, but the topping may soften.
9. What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with fried chicken, pork chops, roasted veggies, or cornbread.
10. How can I make this dish healthier?
Use a low-fat cream soup, reduce the butter, and swap out the crackers for whole wheat breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole is comfort food at its finest. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and crispy topping, it’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to be a family favorite. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!
PrintOld Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole
Old Fashioned Southern Cabbage Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy southern favorite. The dish features tender green cabbage and sweet Vidalia onions cooked in butter, layered with a tangy soup-mayo mixture, and crowned with a crunchy topping of melted butter, shredded sharp cheddar, and crushed Ritz crackers. It’s a classic recipe passed down through generations, perfect as a side dish for family gatherings or holiday meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
– 1 small head green cabbage, coarsely chopped
– 1 medium Vidalia onion, chopped
– 8 tablespoons butter (divided; about 1 stick)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 (10-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom as an alternative)
– 1/3 cup mayonnaise
*Topping:*
– 4 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), crushed
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
2. In a large nonstick pan, melt 8 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chopped cabbage and onion; cook for about 8-10 minutes until partially softened. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Transfer the cabbage mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix the condensed cream soup with mayonnaise. Spread evenly over the cabbage.
5. In another bowl, combine the topping ingredients: melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and crushed Ritz crackers.
6. Sprinkle the topping over the casserole and bake for 30 minutes or until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
Notes
– For a variation, you may use cream of mushroom soup.
– Adjust seasoning to your taste.
– Ensure the cabbage retains a slight crunch by not overcooking it on the stovetop.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 355 kcal
- Sugar: ~6 g
- Sodium: ~850 mg
- Fat: ~25 g
- Saturated Fat: ~15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~10 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~20 g
- Fiber: ~4 g
- Protein: ~10 g
- Cholesterol: ~40 mg