Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Prepare the Cabbage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage and sauté for 5-7 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Meat: In the same skillet, add the ground meat and diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Mix the Cream Cheese and Cream: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with heavy cream or sour cream until smooth. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked cabbage, followed by half of the meat mixture. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the top, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil (Optional): For a golden crust, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy as a satisfying main dish.
Storage Methods
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or the oven until warmed through.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until heated through.
Variations
- Vegetarian Pierogi Casserole: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a vegetarian version.
- Loaded Pierogi Casserole: Add crumbled bacon and green onions on top of the final cheese layer for a loaded pierogi flavor.
- Spicy Pierogi Casserole: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Buffalo Chicken Pierogi Casserole: Replace ground beef with shredded chicken, and mix in buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy variation.
Benefits of Ingredients
- Cabbage: Low in carbs and calories, cabbage is a great source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. It provides a satisfying texture while keeping the dish low-carb.
- Ground Meat: Provides protein and essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins. Using different types of ground meat can adjust the flavor and fat content.
- Cheese: A good source of calcium, fats, and protein, cheese adds creaminess and flavor, making the dish more satisfying and filling.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness and a creamy texture, while also contributing healthy fats, which are crucial for those on a low-carb or keto diet.
- Cream Cheese: Provides a tangy flavor and creamy texture, enhancing the richness of the casserole.
This Baked Pierogi Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the classic flavors of pierogis into a low-carb format. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, it offers a satisfying alternative that fits a low-carb lifestyle while delivering all the cheesy, hearty goodness you crave.
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