German Style Ham (Or Tofurkey Brat) & Cabbage Casserole
Although I prefer ham in this casserole, Tofurkey Brats worked well as a vegetarian option for tonight's dinner.
Although I prefer ham in this casserole, Tofurkey Brats worked well as a vegetarian option for tonight's dinner.
- Carbohydrate 160.640720453348 g
- Cholesterol 857.510000081154 mg
- Fat 218.230942734708 g
- Fiber 15.5885418020884 g
- Protein 226.589048151131 g
- Saturated Fat 119.734827098468 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Recipe (2897g)
- Sodium 8197.38964615795 mg
- Sugar 145.05217865126 g
- Trans Fat 16.1040828989009 g
- Calories 3506 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9x13 inch casserole or other similar sized dish.
- Cook noodles according to package directions in salted water. Strain out water and dress with a small amount of oil to keep noodles from sticking together.
- Meanwhile, chop the ham in a food processor until it looks like hamburger. Or cook the Tofurkey Brats in the Microwave for 1 minute. Break into pieces into a food processor and pulse until it looks like hamburger. If you don’t have a food processor just chop up either option very well.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until foam subsides. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in milk, salt, pepper and caraway seeds. Stir frequently until the sauce thickens, about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Mix the meat or meat substitute, cabbage, sauerkraut and sauce in with the noodles. Pour mixture into the casserole dish. Top with squares of Swiss.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and casserole is heated through.
My Comfort Food: German Style Ham and Cabbage Casserole
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a wholesome, delicious meal can feel like an impossible task. Weeknights are a blur of school pick-ups, homework help, and the general chaos of family life. But there’s something deeply satisfying about gathering everyone around the table for a home-cooked meal, even if it's a simple one. This German-style ham and cabbage casserole is my go-to recipe for those nights when I need something comforting, flavorful, and relatively quick to prepare. It's incredibly versatile too – I can easily swap in vegetarian options, like Tofurkey brats, for a meatless Monday alternative, or adjust the ingredients based on what I have on hand.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. It’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup – a huge bonus on a busy weeknight! The combination of tender ham (or savory Tofurkey brats), crisp cabbage, tangy sauerkraut, and a creamy, caraway-infused sauce is a symphony of flavors. The whole grain egg noodles add a hearty texture, while the melted Swiss cheese provides a delightful, cheesy finish. It's the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, a comforting hug on a cold evening. The recipe is straightforward enough for even a novice cook to master, and the result is a truly satisfying meal the whole family will adore.
Beyond the Recipe: This casserole isn't just about the food; it's about the memories created around the dinner table. I often find myself reminiscing about my own childhood, the smells and tastes of my grandmother's kitchen, and the simple joy of family dinners. This recipe is a way for me to pass on that tradition, creating new memories for my own children. It's a testament to the power of food to bring people together, to nourish not only the body but also the soul. The recipe itself is adaptable; I've been known to add different vegetables depending on what’s in season, or to substitute cheeses based on what I have available. The core essence of the dish remains the same, a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. It's the epitome of comfort food, and that's why it holds a special place in my heart, and hopefully, will in yours as well.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving. This is a great option for busy weeknights or when you're entertaining guests.
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little kick to the casserole.
- Use different cheese: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, such as Gruyere, cheddar, or Fontina.
- Add vegetables: Other vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or green beans, can be added to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different noodles: While whole grain egg noodles are my preference, you can use any type of noodle you like.
This German-style ham and cabbage casserole is more than just a recipe; it's a comforting ritual, a delicious tradition, and a testament to the simple joys of home-cooked meals. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
