
Take boring cabbage to the next level with this snug, velvety side that matches everything. You'll enjoy soft cabbage, a silky sauce, and a toasty, cheese-covered top. Even those who usually avoid veggies will finish every bite of this dish.
The first time I threw this dish together, I was looking at a massive cabbage from my garden. My family wasn't excited about it at all. Now, they ask for extra helpings, particularly when we've got our Sunday chicken dinner going.
Flavorful Ingredients
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Creates a stretchy, flavorful crown that's impossible to resist
- Green cabbage: Has a subtle flavor and gets perfectly tender when baked
- Vidalia onion: Adds a slight sweetness that works with everything else
- Butter: Adds depth and helps brown the veggies nicely
- Mayonnaise: Brings a zesty, smooth texture to the mix
- Condensed cream soup: Your quick path to a luscious, thick foundation
- Salt and pepper: Bring all the tastes to life
- Ritz crackers: Create that irresistible buttery snap on top
- Extra melted butter: Binds the topping and boosts the taste
Easy Cooking Instructions
- Finish in the oven:
- Put your casserole in the oven and cook for 30 minutes, until you notice bubbling and the topping gets crispy and golden. You want a nice crackle and everything hot inside.
- Create your crunchy layer:
- Combine the 3 tablespoons melted butter with cheddar and smashed Ritz crackers until everything's coated and moist. Sprinkle this mix all over the middle section.
- Mix the smooth center:
- Stir mayonnaise and condensed soup together until completely combined. It needs to be creamy, rich, and zingy. Layer this over the cabbage so it covers everything.
- Start the foundation:
- Transfer your cooked cabbage and onions from the pan. Spread them flat in your greased baking dish to create a solid base for what comes next.
- Cook your vegetables:
- Toss cabbage and onion into the hot butter, mixing occasionally for around 8-10 minutes. Let them get tender and shrink a bit, but don't cook them to mush. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Prep the cabbage:
- Slice cabbage into rough chunks, about an inch big. They should be small enough to cook through but large enough to maintain texture. Warm 8 tablespoons butter in a big skillet over medium heat.
- Get your oven ready:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees F. Quickly butter a 2 quart dish to prevent sticking. This helps everything cook properly and keeps your topping from burning.

Those Ritz crackers really make this dish special. I tried regular breadcrumbs once and my child noticed right away. There's something about those buttery, slightly sweet crackers that works magic with the warm cabbage below.
Convenient Prep-Ahead Tips
Makes busy nights so much easier—do all the work beforehand. Just assemble everything, wrap it up, and store in the fridge. When dinner time comes, let it sit out thirty minutes, then add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time so it warms completely.
Clever Ingredient Swaps
This recipe works with what you have on hand. Cream of chicken or celery soup works fine if mushroom isn't available. Using red cabbage gives a sweeter taste and pretty purple color. Want something lighter? Go with reduced-fat mayo and cheese, though it might not be quite as rich.

Delicious Pairing Ideas
This goes wonderfully with roasted meats—try it with chicken, pork, or meatloaf. Add a simple grilled protein and fresh salad for an easy but complete dinner. It's also perfect for gatherings since it travels well and can sit out a while without issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different cabbage?
Absolutely! Try napa or savoy cabbage if you prefer something milder. Just cut the leaves evenly for smooth cooking.
- → What if cream of soup isn’t handy?
No problem! Sub in cream of mushroom or whip up a simple butter and flour-based sauce on your own.
- → Can I prep this in advance?
Yes, you can! Assemble everything up to a day ahead, cover it, and let it chill in the fridge. Add the cracker topping right before baking to keep it crunchy.
- → What other cheeses can I use?
Mozzarella, gouda, or gruyère all work nicely. For extra sharpness, go for cheddar.
- → Any tips to make the crust crispier?
Don’t crush the crackers too fine—keeping them slightly chunky helps. Also, bake it on the middle rack for an even crunch.