Cabbage Casserole Ritz Crackers: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Cabbage Casserole Ritz Crackers: Prepare to be amazed! This isn’t your grandma’s bland cabbage dish. We’re talking about a creamy, comforting casserole topped with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crust that will have everyone begging for seconds. Forget everything you thought you knew about cabbage; this recipe is a game-changer.

Casseroles, in general, have a long and storied history as a budget-friendly and convenient way to feed families. They represent resourcefulness and warmth, often passed down through generations. While the exact origins of Cabbage Casserole Ritz Crackers are a bit murky, the addition of Ritz crackers elevates this humble vegetable to something truly special. The slight sweetness of the cabbage pairs perfectly with the salty, buttery crackers, creating a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.

People adore this dish for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights. Second, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some vegetables, even for picky eaters. But most importantly, it’s simply delicious! The creamy interior, the slightly caramelized cabbage, and that irresistible Ritz cracker topping – it’s a combination that’s hard to resist. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with this Cabbage Casserole Ritz Crackers recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cabbage, about 2-3 pounds, cored and shredded
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 sleeve (about 40 crackers) Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, melted
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese), divided
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste

Preparing the Cabbage and Vegetables:

1. First, let’s get the cabbage ready. If you haven’t already, core the cabbage by cutting out the hard center core with a knife. Then, shred the cabbage. You can use a knife, a mandoline slicer (be careful!), or a food processor with a shredding attachment. I prefer a knife for a slightly chunkier texture, but whatever works best for you!
2. Next, chop the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Aim for roughly the same size pieces so they cook evenly. I like a medium dice, about 1/2 inch.

Browning the Ground Beef and Sautéing the Vegetables:

1. Now, let’s brown the ground beef. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned all over. Drain off any excess grease. This is important to prevent a greasy casserole!
2. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender but not mushy.
3. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), dried thyme, and dried oregano. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This will really wake up the flavors!

Combining the Ingredients:

1. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet with the ground beef and vegetables. Stir well to combine. The cabbage will seem like a lot at first, but it will cook down as it wilts.
2. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), cream of mushroom soup, and cream of celery soup. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Add the milk and stir again. The milk helps to thin out the mixture slightly and adds a bit of richness.
4. Season with salt to taste. Remember that the soup and Ritz crackers already contain salt, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The cabbage should be soft and slightly translucent.
6. Remove from the heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese (about 1/2 cup). This will help to bind the casserole together and add a cheesy flavor throughout.

Preparing the Ritz Cracker Topping:

1. While the casserole is simmering, let’s prepare the Ritz cracker topping. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Mix well until the crackers are evenly coated with butter. The butter helps the crackers to brown nicely and adds a delicious buttery flavor.

Assembling and Baking the Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pour the cabbage mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed.
3. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese (about 1/2 cup) evenly over the top of the cabbage mixture.
4. Top with the Ritz cracker mixture, spreading it evenly over the cheese.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent the topping from burning.

Cooling and Serving:

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the casserole to set up slightly and prevent it from being too runny.
2. Serve hot. This cabbage casserole is delicious on its own, or you can serve it as a side dish with your favorite protein, such as roasted chicken, pork chops, or steak.

Tips and Variations:

• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole, such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms.
• Use different meat: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even Italian sausage.
• Spice it up: If you like a spicier casserole, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Add a creamy sauce: For an even creamier casserole, add a can of cream of chicken soup or a cup of sour cream to the cabbage mixture.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add a can of drained and rinsed beans, such as kidney beans or black beans, for a vegetarian version.
• Use different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the Ritz cracker topping just before baking.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole, but don’t add the Ritz cracker topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Add the Ritz cracker topping just before baking.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Cabbage Casserole!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another casserole; it’s a comforting, flavorful experience that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. The creamy cabbage, the savory filling, and that irresistible Ritz cracker topping create a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, this Cabbage Casserole with Ritz Crackers is a must-try for anyone looking for a satisfying and budget-friendly meal. But why is this particular recipe so special? It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and deliciousness. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to create this masterpiece. The ingredients are readily available, and the steps are straightforward. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Looking for serving suggestions? This casserole is fantastic as a main course, especially on a chilly evening. Serve it alongside a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. It’s also a wonderful side dish for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. And speaking of versatility, there are so many ways you can customize this recipe to suit your own preferences. Want to add a little kick? Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Craving more protein? Add some cooked sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken to the cabbage mixture. You could even experiment with different types of cheese – Gruyere, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar would be delicious additions. For a vegetarian option, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the cabbage mixture. You could also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for an even more plant-based flavor. And don’t be afraid to get creative with the topping! While the Ritz crackers are a classic choice, you could also use breadcrumbs, crushed potato chips, or even a mixture of nuts and seeds for a different texture and flavor. A sprinkle of paprika or dried herbs on top before baking will also add a touch of visual appeal. I’ve made this Cabbage Casserole with Ritz Crackers countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a family favorite, passed down through generations. It’s comforting, satisfying, and always brings a smile to everyone’s face. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible casserole. I promise you won’t be disappointed. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how much your family enjoyed it. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to answer them. Enjoy this delightful Cabbage Casserole with Ritz Crackers! Print