Irresistible Creamy Cheesy Cabbage Wedges Baked to Perfection
If you think cabbage is boring, this recipe will completely change your mind. These
Creamy Cheesy Cabbage Wedges are tender, comforting, and drenched in a luxuriously smooth cheese sauce that melts into every layer.
Baked until bubbling and lightly golden, this dish transforms a humble vegetable into an
elegant yet cozy comfort food that’s impossible to resist. Perfect as a side dish or even a light main, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can deliver
extraordinary flavor.
What makes this dish truly special is the contrast of textures and tastes: the natural sweetness of roasted cabbage, the richness of butter and milk, and the bold, savory depth of melted mozzarella and sharp cheddar. It’s the kind of recipe that feels nostalgic, indulgent, and satisfying—yet easy enough for any home cook to master.
Ingredients and Their Roles
-
1 small to medium-sized cabbage, cut into 6–8 wedges (core intact):
Keeping the core intact helps the wedges hold their shape while baking. Cabbage becomes tender and slightly sweet when cooked, making it the perfect base for a creamy sauce. -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter:
Butter forms the flavorful foundation of the cheese sauce, adding richness and depth while helping to create a smooth roux. -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour:
Flour thickens the sauce, giving it a velvety consistency that clings beautifully to the cabbage wedges. -
2 ½ cups whole milk:
Whole milk ensures a creamy, luxurious texture and balances the sharpness of the cheese. -
1 cup mozzarella cheese:
Mozzarella provides that irresistible stretch and melt, making the dish gooey and comforting. -
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese:
Sharp cheddar adds bold, tangy flavor that elevates the sauce and prevents it from tasting flat. -
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste):
Essential for enhancing every flavor and balancing the richness of the cheese sauce. -
Paprika (for garnish):
Paprika adds a subtle smoky note and a pop of color for a visually stunning finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold all cabbage wedges in a single layer. -
Prepare the cabbage:
Arrange the cabbage wedges in the baking dish with the cut sides facing up. Season generously with
kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Set aside. -
Make the roux:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the
all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until lightly golden. -
Add the milk:
Slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. -
Melt in the cheese:
Reduce heat to low and add the mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until fully melted and silky. Season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Assemble the dish:
Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the cabbage wedges, making sure each piece is well coated. -
Bake to perfection:
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the cabbage is fork-tender and the sauce is bubbling. -
Garnish and serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle lightly with paprika for color and flavor. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
This recipe is loved because it turns a simple vegetable into a
rich, indulgent, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly comforting.
Even picky eaters are won over by the creamy cheese sauce and tender baked cabbage.
It’s a perfect example of how classic ingredients can create unforgettable results.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Cabbage
- Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce—pre-shredded cheese may not melt as well.
- Don’t overcook the roux; a light golden color ensures a creamy, not grainy, sauce.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or mustard powder to the sauce.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end if you want a lightly golden top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Cheesy Cabbage Wedges alongside roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled sausages for a complete comfort-food meal.
They also pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up every drop of the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cheesy Cabbage Wedges Recipe proves that you don’t need complicated steps or fancy ingredients to create something truly memorable.
With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it delivers a dish that’s cozy, satisfying, and undeniably delicious.