Baked cabbage may sound simple, but when combined with a cheesy topping and a creamy sauce, it transforms into a satisfying and flavorful dish. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star of your meal, this dish is sure to please. Packed with fiber and vitamins from the cabbage, healthy fats from olive oil, and the richness of cheese and creamy sauce, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage:
- 1 medium head cabbage: A hearty vegetable that’s rich in fiber and essential nutrients.
- 50 ml olive oil: Adds healthy fats and a smooth, fruity flavor to the cabbage.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the cabbage and seasoning.
- Ground black pepper: Adds warmth and depth.
- Red pepper: To taste, for a mild heat.
- Herbs de Provence: A fragrant mix of herbs that infuses the cabbage with Mediterranean flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds savory richness to the cabbage.
- 0.5 chili peppers, finely chopped: Optional, for extra heat.
For the Cheese Topping:
- 80 g cheese, grated: Mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère are great choices for melting and flavor.
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 40 g butter: Adds richness and helps create a creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon flour: Thickens the sauce into a smooth, creamy consistency.
- 100 ml milk: The base for the sauce. Add extra if needed.
- A pinch of nutmeg: Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
- Salt: To taste, to balance the flavors of the sauce.
Instructions
Prepare the Cabbage:
- Cut the cabbage: Slice the cabbage into 1.5-2 cm thick slices.
Season the Cabbage:
- Make the seasoning mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, ground black pepper, red pepper, Herbs de Provence, and minced garlic. Stir until well mixed.
- Brush the cabbage: Coat each cabbage slice with the seasoned olive oil mixture. Ensure both sides are covered for maximum flavor.
Bake the Cabbage:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake the cabbage: Place the cabbage slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the cabbage is tender and golden at the edges.
Add Cheese and Bake Again:
- Add cheese: Sprinkle grated cheese over the cabbage slices and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- Make the roux: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
- Add milk: Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Season the sauce: Add a pinch of nutmeg and salt to taste.
Serve:
- Assemble the dish: Once the cabbage is baked with cheese, remove it from the oven and drizzle the creamy sauce over the top.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle finely chopped chili peppers for an extra spicy kick.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful baked cabbage with creamy cheese sauce!
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of cabbage?
Yes, you can use other hearty vegetables like Brussels sprouts or cauliflower. Both will work well with the seasoning and sauce.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère are great choices. You want a cheese that melts well and gives a nice golden crust when baked.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make the sauce gluten-free, simply substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can use plant-based butter and a dairy-free cheese alternative. Make sure the milk is substituted with a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cabbage and sauce in advance. Just bake the cabbage, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve. The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish because the texture may change when thawed, especially the cheese and sauce. It’s best to store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of chili pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top for an extra kick.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cabbage: Rich in fiber, which aids digestion and supports gut health. It also provides vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, and vitamin K, essential for bone health.
- Olive Oil: Packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, it supports heart health and provides anti-inflammatory properties.
- Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle function.
- Garlic: Known for its antioxidant properties, garlic has immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Milk: Provides calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for strong bones and overall health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This dish is suitable for vegetarians, as it contains no meat or animal products (other than dairy).
- Gluten-Free: By using gluten-free flour, this dish can easily be made gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: You can make it dairy-free by using plant-based butter and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change when thawed and reheated.
Conclusion
This baked cabbage with cheese and creamy sauce is an easy, comforting dish that combines savory, creamy, and cheesy flavors. Whether served as a side or a main, it’s a great way to enjoy the health benefits of cabbage while indulging in a rich, satisfying dish. Perfect for family meals, this recipe will quickly become a favorite!