Name: Cheesy Cabbage Bake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 large head tenderheart cabbage; 200 g low-fat cream cheese; 2 tbsp cornflour; 2 tbsp parmesan; 20 g low-fat cheddar cheese; 400 ml milk; 2 tbsp paprika; 1 tsp mustard; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; ¼ tsp salt and pepper

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Cheesy cabbage is a delicious, creamy alternative to cauliflower cheese. This dish takes tender cabbage ribbons and coats them in a rich, cheesy sauce made with low-fat ingredients. It’s packed with flavour from mustard, garlic, and paprika, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. Lighter than traditional cheese-based dishes but just as satisfying, this is a great way to enjoy comfort food while keeping things nutritious.

Is this cheesy cabbage bake healthy?

This dish is not only tasty but also comes with several nutritional benefits:

Cabbage is high in fibre – Supports digestion and helps with satiety.
Lower in calories than traditional cheese sauces – Uses low-fat cheese and milk for a lighter but creamy texture.
High in protein – Cheese and milk add a protein boost.
Packed with flavour without added fat – Seasonings like paprika, mustard, and garlic create depth without extra calories.

Do you have a diet restriction?

This cheesy cabbage recipe is:

Vegetarian
Gluten Free
Nut Free
Keto Friendly
Ultra Processed Food Free

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Start by removing the tough outer leaves from the cabbage. Slice the cabbage into thin ribbons, cutting away the thick core. Bring a large pot of water to the boil, then add the cabbage ribbons. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, enough time for the cabbage to soften slightly but still retain its structure. Drain the cabbage thoroughly, ensuring all excess water is removed. Set the cabbage aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the milk, cornflour, paprika, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the cornflour is fully dissolved and there are no lumps in the mixture. Place the saucepan on low heat and stir continuously. As the mixture heats up, it will begin to thicken. This should take about 3-5 minutes, so keep stirring to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to very low and add the cream cheese, parmesan, and cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheeses have melted into the sauce, resulting in a smooth, creamy texture. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a small splash of milk to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, continue stirring on low heat until it thickens further.

Step 4: Combine the Sauce and Cabbage

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan). In an ovenproof dish, add the drained cabbage. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the cabbage and stir until it’s well coated. Make sure the sauce gets evenly distributed throughout the cabbage for maximum flavour. Once mixed, top with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese for a golden, bubbling finish once baked.

Step 5: Bake the cheesy cabbage bake

Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese sauce is bubbling. The edges should start to crisp up slightly as the cheese browns. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

Make it extra cheesy – Use a stronger cheese like mature cheddar or gruyère for a richer taste.
Add protein – Mix in cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or tofu for a more filling meal.
Try different vegetables – Swap half the cabbage for kale, spinach, or leeks.
Spice it up – Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a kick.
Make it crispier – Top with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cheesy cabbage in advance?

Yes! Prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake as usual when ready.

Can I freeze cheesy cabbage?

Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven until hot throughout.

What can I serve with cheesy cabbage?

It pairs well with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as a vegetarian main with lentils or beans.

Can I use full-fat cheese?

Absolutely! If you prefer a richer dish, you can use full-fat cream cheese and cheddar.

How do I prevent the sauce from going lumpy?

Whisk the sauce continuously while cooking, and don’t add the cheese until it has thickened.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, cornflour is naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those avoiding gluten.

Can I skip baking and serve straight from the pan?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can serve the cheesy cabbage straight after mixing it with the sauce.

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