Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Bake
This recipe is a useful way to turn an inexpensive head of cabbage into something more substantial. Smoked Gouda adds a deep, savory flavor without requiring a long list of seasonings, while fresh dill and thyme keep the casserole from feeling too heavy.
It’s also versatile enough to serve alongside roasted chicken, pork, steak, or fish. You can even enjoy a generous slice with a salad for a simple lunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the cabbage filling:
- 4 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the batter:
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ cup shredded smoked Gouda for topping
For garnish:
- Fresh dill
- Fresh thyme
- Cracked black pepper
Ingredient Notes
Cabbage: Finely shredded green cabbage works best because the thin pieces become tender during baking without needing to be precooked.
Smoked Gouda: This is the main flavor of the casserole. Its smoky, slightly nutty character pairs particularly well with mild cabbage.
Sour cream: Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang to the batter.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the casserole and give the finished bake enough structure to cut into wedges.
Fresh dill: Dill adds freshness that balances the rich cheese.
Thyme: A small amount gives the casserole an earthy herbal note without overpowering the Gouda.
How to Make Smoked Gouda Cabbage Bake
1. Prepare the Oven and Skillet
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease an 8- or 9-inch cast-iron skillet with butter.
A similarly sized baking dish can be used if you don’t have a cast-iron skillet.
2. Prepare the Cabbage
Place the finely shredded cabbage in a large mixing bowl.
Add 1 cup of smoked Gouda, fresh dill, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Toss thoroughly so the cheese and herbs are distributed throughout the cabbage.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared skillet. Don’t compress it too firmly; leaving some space between the cabbage pieces allows the batter to move through the filling.
3. Make the Batter
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, and melted butter until smooth.
Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Whisk just until combined.
Avoid aggressively mixing the batter once the flour has been incorporated.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Slowly pour the batter over the cabbage.
Use a fork to gently lift sections of cabbage so some of the batter can flow between the layers.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup smoked Gouda evenly over the top.
5. Bake
Transfer the skillet to the oven.
Bake for approximately 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the surface is golden brown.
If you’d like additional browning, leave the casserole in the oven for another few minutes while watching it carefully.
6. Rest Before Cutting
Remove the cabbage bake from the oven and allow it to rest for approximately 10 minutes.
Resting gives the interior time to set, making it easier to cut clean wedges.
7. Garnish and Serve
Finish with fresh dill, thyme, and cracked black pepper.
Cut into wedges and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Bake
Shred the cabbage finely. Thick cabbage pieces take longer to soften and can make the finished casserole harder to slice.
Shred your own Gouda. Freshly shredded cheese generally melts more smoothly than packaged pre-shredded cheese.
Don’t pack down the cabbage. The batter needs room to work between the shredded vegetables.
Check the center before removing it. The middle should appear set rather than liquid.
Give it time to rest. Cutting immediately can cause the casserole to fall apart.
Recipe Variations
Gouda and Bacon Cabbage Bake
Add about ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon to the cabbage mixture for a smoky, savory variation.
Cabbage and Onion Bake
Add ½ cup finely diced sautéed onion to the filling.
Spicy Smoked Gouda Cabbage
Add ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño.
Extra Cheesy Cabbage Bake
Increase the Gouda topping or combine Gouda with sharp cheddar.
Parmesan Cabbage Bake
Replace part of the smoked Gouda with freshly grated Parmesan for a sharper cheese flavor.
What to Serve With Smoked Gouda Cabbage Bake
This cheesy cabbage casserole works well with simple proteins because it already has plenty of flavor.
Try serving it with roasted chicken, grilled chicken, pork chops, pork tenderloin, steak, roast beef, baked salmon, or grilled fish.
For a lighter meal, serve a warm wedge with a green salad or tomato salad.
How to Store Leftovers
Allow the cabbage bake to cool before transferring leftovers to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
For the best texture, reheat individual slices in a 350°F oven until warmed through. An air fryer can also help restore some crispness to the exterior.
The microwave works when you’re short on time, although the crust will be softer.
Can You Make Smoked Gouda Cabbage Bake Ahead?
Yes. You can shred the cabbage and cheese and chop the herbs several hours in advance.
Store everything covered in the refrigerator.
For the best texture, prepare the batter and assemble the casserole shortly before baking rather than leaving the raw batter mixed with the cabbage overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to cook the cabbage first?
No. Finely shredded cabbage becomes tender as the casserole bakes.
Can I use regular Gouda instead of smoked Gouda?
Yes. Regular Gouda melts beautifully, although you’ll lose some of the smoky flavor that defines this version.
Can I use cheddar cheese?
Yes. Sharp cheddar is a good substitute, or you can combine cheddar and Gouda.
Why is my cabbage bake watery?
Cabbage naturally contains considerable moisture. Make sure the casserole is fully baked and allow it to rest before slicing.
If your cabbage is particularly wet after washing, dry it thoroughly before shredding.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The center should be set and the top should be golden. A knife inserted near the center shouldn’t encounter liquid batter.
Can I make this without a cast-iron skillet?
Absolutely. Use a greased 8- or 9-inch baking dish instead.
Can I add meat?
Yes. Cooked bacon, ham, or sausage can be added for a heartier variation. Make sure any meat is fully cooked before incorporating it into the casserole.