Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt, then toss in the cabbage wedges for a quick bath—1 to 3 minutes should do the trick.
- Drain the cabbage and carefully slice off the cores.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. While that warms up, spray a 9×9 baking dish with cooking spray.
- Nestle the cabbage wedges into the dish and set them aside.
- In a nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour for a couple of minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until your sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and mix in the mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Pour the cheesy sauce over the cabbage and finish with a sprinkle of paprika.
- Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Serve warm and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
Escalloped cabbage is perfect as a standalone dish, but it also pairs beautifully with roasted meats or grilled vegetables. Try serving it alongside a crisp salad or some crusty bread for a heartwarming meal. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkling of fresh herbs like parsley for an attractive finish.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store any leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing portions. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure to keep an eye on the sauce while whisking in the milk. Stirring continuously prevents lumps from forming.
- For an added layer of flavor, consider sautéing some onions or garlic in the butter before adding in the flour.
- Don’t skip the paprika! It not only adds an appealing color but also a subtle warmth that rounds out the dish beautifully.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative! You can swap out the cheeses based on your preference, or even try adding veggies like mushrooms or spinach to the layers. For a spicier kick, you could incorporate some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce.
FAQs
What’s the prep time for escalloped cabbage?
Preparing escalloped cabbage takes about 15 minutes, with an additional 20 to 25 minutes of cooking time.
Can I substitute the cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese you have on hand. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the taste and texture of the dish.
How should I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, use the oven for the best results. Preheat it to 350°F, cover the dish with foil to keep it moist, and heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Microwave is an option as well, but the oven will maintain the texture of the dish better.
With this guide, you’re all set to create a delicious, satisfying escalloped cabbage dish that everyone will love. Enjoy the journey and the delectable results!
