Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this Savory Cabbage and Cheese Casserole! It's perfect for a cozy family meal, combining hearty flavors with a creamy, cheesy finish. Plus, it's a great way to use up that cabbage sitting in your fridge.
Cabbage serves as the hearty base of the casserole, bringing a slight sweetness and lovely texture. The ground turkey adds a lean source of protein, soaking up the spices beautifully. Onion and garlic are sautéed for a savory depth that forms the aromatic foundation. For the cheesy goodness, we’ve got both cheddar cheese for its sharpness and cottage cheese for creaminess. Sour cream adds a tangy richness, while breadcrumbs create a crunchy topping. A mix of olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper add flavor depth and seasoning.
This casserole is a meal in itself but pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crisp green salad. For a heartier option, serve it alongside a slice of crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices. A light, zesty vinaigrette will complement the rich flavors of the casserole nicely.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F. You’ll want it nice and hot so our casserole gets that beautiful golden crust. While the oven is heating, grab a large skillet and pour in a tablespoon of olive oil. Set the heat to medium and once the oil shimmers, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until fragrant, which should take about two to three minutes.
Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly. Once it’s cooked through, sprinkle in the smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined, then turn off the heat.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey mixture with the chopped cabbage, cheddar cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. Transfer this mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top for that extra crunch.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbling, golden top. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen!