Creamy Cheesy Ham and Cabbage Casserole Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a pinch of black pepper or a dash of onion powder to the sauce before pouring it over the cabbage.

While the recipe is simple, these small additions can elevate the overall profile without requiring additional preparation time or complex ingredients that might complicate the process.

Serving the casserole immediately after the five-minute rest period is recommended to enjoy the best texture of the melted cheese.

If the casserole sits for too long, the sauce may begin to firm up as it cools, though it remains delicious. Using a wide serving spoon helps to scoop out the layers of cabbage, ham, and sauce effectively.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream of mushroom soup before pouring it over the cabbage for a subtle heat.
• Herb-Infused: Stir in a tablespoon of fresh thyme or dried Italian seasoning into the sauce mixture to add a fragrant, earthy note that complements the cabbage and ham.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed container.

Reheat

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for individual servings.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The casserole can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When storing, ensure the casserole has cooled to room temperature, but do not leave it on the counter for more than two hours to ensure food safety and prevent bacterial growth.

This dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and kept in the refrigerator until ready to bake. If baking from cold, add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the total cook time to ensure the center reaches the desired temperature. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid while in the refrigerator.

Serving ideas

This casserole is a hearty, standalone meal, but it pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light, acidic salad to cut through the richness of the creamy sauce.

The acidity of a simple vinaigrette-dressed green salad provides a nice contrast to the savory, cheesy elements of the main dish, making for a more balanced dining experience.

When serving, use a large spoon to ensure each portion includes a mix of the tender cabbage, savory ham, and the cheesy top layer. If extra texture is desired, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley can be added as a garnish just before serving, which adds a bright pop of color and a fresh note to the final plate.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Creamy Cheesy Ham and Cabbage Casserole

Prep 15 minCook 40 minRest 5 minTotal 1 hServes 6

Ingredients

• 1 head green cabbage, chopped
• 2 cups cooked ham, cubed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large 9x13 inch baking dish, combine the chopped green cabbage and the cubed cooked ham. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed across the bottom of the dish to allow for uniform cooking and sauce coverage.
2. Pour the cream of mushroom soup directly over the cabbage and ham mixture. Use a spoon to gently spread the sauce so it coats the ingredients. Finish by scattering the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to create a thick, golden layer.
3. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Contains: milk, gluten

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

18 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

22 g

Fiber

3.5 g

Sugar

5 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.