Cabbage Casserole with Ham and Bacon

This savory cabbage casserole with ham and bacon is a comforting dish perfect for a hearty meal. The main ingredient, cabbage, is thinly sliced and briefly blanched, giving it a soft texture that contrasts beautifully with crispy bacon bits and tender chunks of ham. The dish is enhanced with a layer of melted Gouda cheese, offering a creamy, rich flavor that binds the ingredients together. A blend of eggs and milk is poured over the mixture to create a custard-like base that sets beautifully after baking. The dish is seasoned with salt and pepper, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine. Baked to golden perfection, this casserole is both satisfying and nutritious. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes and browned butter for a complete meal. Easy to prepare and full of flavors, this casserole is an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. Its enticing aroma and delightful taste will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 head of cabbage (approximately 800 g)
• 300 g ham or streaky bacon
• 1 large onion
• 100 g grated Gouda cheese
• 3 eggs
• 375 ml milk
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

Total: 70 minutes (Prep: 45 minutes, Cook: 25 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by dividing the cabbage into four quarters and remove the core.
2. Slice the quarters into thin strips.
3. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the cabbage strips for 3 minutes. Once done, place them in a strainer and let them drain.
4. Cut off the rind from the bacon or ham and dice into small cubes.
5. In a skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon cubes until they turn translucent.
6. While the bacon cooks, peel and finely chop the onion.
7. Add the chopped onion to the bacon in the skillet and sauté until both are translucent.
8. Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit) and grease a baking dish.
9. Squeeze excess water from the blanched cabbage and add it to the skillet with the bacon and onions. Mix in half of the cheese.
10. Transfer this mixture into the greased baking dish.
11. In a bowl, beat the eggs and mix them with the milk. Stir in the remaining cheese.
12. Pour the egg and milk mixture over the cabbage mixture in the dish.
13. Gently incorporate the mixture with a spoon to ensure even coverage.
14. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes at 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit).
15. Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
16. Serve it hot with mashed potatoes and a drizzle of browned butter.
17. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures.

Tips

• Substitutions: For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and replace it with vegetarian sausages or mushrooms.
• Cheese Varieties: Feel free to substitute Gouda with cheddar or mozzarella for a different taste.
• Cabbage Alternatives: If you prefer, use savoy cabbage or kale for a unique twist.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
• Protein: 18 g
• Fats: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g

Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and dairy-free cheese to make the dish suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of tabasco to introduce some heat.
• Herbs: Incorporate thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crispy bread rolls or buttered toast for added texture.
• Pair with a fresh garden salad for a lighter complement.

Best Places

• The Cabbage Patch Bistro - A cozy spot known for its hearty cabbage dishes. Location: 123 Elm St, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Green Leaf Diner - Offers a variety of classic European casseroles. Location: 456 Oak Lane, London, UK.
• Bacony Bliss Café - Perfect for bacon enthusiasts. Location: 789 Pine Ridge Rd, New York, USA.
• The Gourmet Nook - Features upscale rustic fare with an emphasis on local ingredients. Location: 101 Main St, Melbourne, Australia.
• Cabbage Cottage - A quaint eatery celebrating all things cabbage. Location: 2345 Greenway Dr, Dublin, Ireland.
• Heritage Eatery - Known for traditional casseroles with a modern twist. Location: 567 Blue Rd, Paris, France.
• Home and Hearth Deli - Combines classic comfort foods with global flavors. Location: 890 River St, Vancouver, Canada.
• Old Town Café - Renowned for their hearty homemade meals. Location: 321 Broadway, Berlin, Germany.
• Cuisine Corner - Specializes in fusion dishes with bold flavors. Location: 654 Shoreline Ave, San Francisco, USA.
• The Hearty Spoon - Offers a menu of warm and filling dishes. Location: 98 Route Road, Auckland, New Zealand.