Cooking Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensuring your oven reaches the correct temperature before baking is key to achieving a perfectly golden, evenly cooked casserole.
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage
Chop your cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the cabbage for 5 minutes. This softens the cabbage and brings out its mild sweetness. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base that infuses the entire casserole with a savory aroma.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched cabbage, sautéed onions and garlic, shredded cheddar cheese (reserve a handful for topping), softened cream cheese, eggs, milk, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and evenly coated with the creamy mixture. The filling should be rich, thick, and slightly cheesy before baking.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. Pour the cabbage mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs and the remaining cheese over the top for a crispy, golden crust that complements the creamy interior.
Step 6: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The casserole should be firm enough to slice but still creamy inside. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows it to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Serve warm as a main dish or as a comforting side to meats or roasted vegetables.
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