Pin it
This rustic cabbage and mozzarella skillet bake transforms humble ingredients into a comforting one-pan meal that's both satisfying and budget-friendly. The combination of tender cabbage and gooey cheese creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
I discovered this recipe during a particularly tight grocery budget month and was amazed at how something so simple could be so delicious. My skeptical teenagers now request it regularly which counts as a major cooking victory in my book.
Ingredients
- Cabbage: 1 small head (about 2 lbs), the star of the show providing hearty texture and mild sweetness when cooked
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped, provides the aromatic foundation (look for firm onions with no soft spots)
- Carrot: 1 medium, grated, adds natural sweetness and beautiful color
- Eggs: 5 large, creates the custard-like binding (choose free range for best flavor)
- Mozzarella cheese: 2 oz, shredded, creates that irresistible cheese pull (choose low moisture for better melting)
- Dried herbs: Oregano, parsley, and garlic powder, the flavor boosters that transform this dish
- Flour and starch: 1 tbsp each, helps thicken the egg mixture for perfect texture
- Mayonnaise: 1 tbsp, secret ingredient for richness and binding
- Fresh dill: For garnish, brightens the whole dish with its distinctive flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Finely chop the onion into small uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Grate the carrot using the medium holes of your box grater for ideal texture. The cabbage needs to be shredded quite thinly (about the width of matchsticks). Cutting the cabbage vertically through the core, then slicing each half into thin ribbons works best. This prep work is the most time-consuming part but sets you up for success.
- Sauté Base Vegetables:
- Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat and add just enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom. Add chopped onions and cook for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add grated carrot and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. The natural sugars in both vegetables will start developing beautiful flavor.
- Cook Down Cabbage:
- Add shredded cabbage to the skillet (it will look like a mountain at first but will cook down dramatically). Sprinkle with a teaspoon of salt and massage the cabbage directly in the pan. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender with a slight bite remaining.
- Season Mixture:
- Add seasoning blend (salt, pepper, oregano, garlic powder, and dried parsley). Distribute evenly throughout the mixture. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Prepare Egg Mixture:
- In a bowl, whisk eggs vigorously until fully combined. Add a pinch of salt, flour, starch, and whisk again until smooth. Stir in mayonnaise for richness. The mixture should have a pale yellow color.
- Combine and Stovetop Cook:
- Pour egg mixture over the cabbage in the skillet. Fold everything together with a spatula. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Cover with a lid and cook on low heat for 10 minutes until the eggs begin to set.
- Cheese and Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Scatter shredded mozzarella over the top. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for about 10 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove skillet from oven and sprinkle with chopped dill. Let rest for 5 minutes before cutting. Serve directly from the skillet or on a platter.
Pin it
The first time I made this dish was during a snowstorm when fresh produce was limited. What started as a necessity has become a family favorite with the humble cabbage taking center stage. My grandmother always said cabbage was underappreciated and this recipe proves her right every time.
Storage and Reheating
This skillet bake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Store it covered in the refrigerator either in the original skillet (if you have room) or transferred to an airtight container. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1 minute. For the best texture, reheat larger portions in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through. The flavor improves overnight as the herbs infuse throughout.
Versatile Variations
While this recipe is delicious as written, you can easily adapt it to what you have on hand. For a heartier version, add 1 cup of cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham. For vegetarian, add 1 cup of sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist. Try cheddar, gouda, or Swiss instead of mozzarella. For a spicy kick, add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Swap dried herbs for thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for variation.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish works well in many meal contexts. For breakfast, serve it with crispy toast and fresh fruit. For lunch, pair it with a simple green salad. As dinner, it makes an excellent side dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. For brunch, add sour cream and sliced avocado. It's also potluck-friendly and tastes great at any temperature.
Pin it
This rustic dish transforms cabbage into a delicious, comforting skillet bake that impresses every time. Perfect for tight budgets and flavorful family meals!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or Parmesan, depending on your preference.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the cooked cabbage mixture and egg mixture separately in advance. Combine and bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- → What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you'd like to avoid mayonnaise, you can use plain yogurt, sour cream, or skip it altogether for a lighter option.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this gluten-free, replace the flour and starch with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked ground meat, chicken, or tofu for extra protein and added flavor.