If you are looking for a cozy, satisfying dish that transforms humble ingredients into something deeply comforting, Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin is the perfect recipe to try. Creamy, savory, and gently caramelized in the oven, this dish brings together tender white cabbage, smoky bacon, and a rich sauce that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether served as a main course or a hearty side dish, this gratin is guaranteed to win over the whole table.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin
The beauty of Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin lies in its simplicity. White cabbage, often overlooked, becomes wonderfully sweet and tender when baked slowly with cream and bacon. The smoky saltiness of bacon balances the mild cabbage perfectly, while the oven transforms everything into a golden, bubbling gratin that feels like pure comfort food.
This recipe is ideal for:
-
Cozy family dinners
-
Budget-friendly meals
-
Make-ahead side dishes
-
Cold-weather comfort cooking
It requires no complicated techniques, making it accessible even for beginner cooks, yet the final result feels elegant and satisfying enough for special occasions.
Ingredients for Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin
Using quality ingredients will significantly enhance the final flavor of your Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin. Below is a detailed ingredient list with notes to help you choose the best options.
Main Ingredients
-
1 large white cabbage (about 1.2–1.5 kg), outer leaves removed, cut into thick wedges
-
200 g bacon, diced or cut into small strips (smoked bacon works best)
-
1 medium onion, finely chopped
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
Creamy Sauce
-
250 ml heavy cream (full-fat for best texture)
-
150 ml whole milk
-
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional but recommended)
-
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
Cheese & Topping
-
80–100 g grated cheese (Gruyère, Emmental, or mature cheddar)
-
30 g grated Parmesan (optional, for deeper flavor)
Seasonings
-
Salt, to taste
-
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
-
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but classic in gratins)
For the Dish
-
Butter, for greasing the baking dish
Required Kitchen Tools
One of the advantages of Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin is that it requires only basic kitchen equipment:
-
Large sharp knife
-
Cutting board
-
Large skillet or frying pan
-
Medium saucepan
-
Oven-safe baking dish or cast-iron skillet
-
Wooden spoon or spatula
-
Measuring cups and spoons
-
Oven
No special tools are necessary, making this recipe ideal for everyday cooking.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Follow these clear steps to achieve a perfectly creamy and flavorful Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the cabbage wedges and blanch them for 6–8 minutes, until just tender but not falling apart. This step softens the cabbage and removes any harsh bitterness.
Drain the cabbage thoroughly and allow it to steam dry for a few minutes. Excess moisture can make the gratin watery, so this step is important.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook slowly until it releases its fat and becomes golden and crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning.
Once cooked, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion to the bacon fat. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, until soft and lightly golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Return the cooked bacon to the pan, stir to combine, and remove from heat.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, Dijon mustard, thyme, nutmeg (if using), salt, and black pepper. Heat gently over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Do not boil.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. The sauce should be well-seasoned but not overly salty, as the bacon and cheese will add saltiness.
Step 5: Assemble the Gratin
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Butter your baking dish generously.
Arrange the blanched cabbage wedges in the dish, slightly overlapping if necessary. Spoon the bacon and onion mixture evenly over the cabbage.
Slowly pour the warm cream sauce over everything, making sure it reaches the bottom of the dish.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top, followed by Parmesan if using. The cheese will melt into the sauce and create a golden crust.
Step 7: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 10 minutes.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Remove the Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving easier.
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin
These practical tips will help you elevate your Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin from good to exceptional:
Choose the Right Cabbage
Fresh, firm white cabbage with tightly packed leaves works best. Avoid cabbages with brown spots or limp outer leaves.
Control the Moisture
Always drain the cabbage thoroughly after blanching. Excess water can dilute the sauce and affect the final texture.
Cheese Variations
While Gruyère is classic, you can experiment with:
-
Smoked cheese for extra depth
-
Cheddar for sharper flavor
-
A mix of cheeses for complexity
Make It Ahead
This dish can be assembled up to one day in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
Serving Ideas
-
Serve as a main dish with crusty bread and a green salad
-
Pair with roasted chicken or pork chops
-
Enjoy as a hearty vegetarian meal by omitting bacon and adding mushrooms
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
The following values are estimates based on standard ingredients and portion sizes:
-
Calories: ~380–420 kcal
-
Protein: 14–18 g
-
Fat: 30–34 g
-
Carbohydrates: 12–15 g
-
Fiber: 4–5 g
-
Calcium: ~20% of daily recommended intake
White cabbage is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants, making Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin more nutritious than it might appear at first glance.
Variations and Customizations
One of the reasons Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin is so popular is its adaptability.
Vegetarian Version
Replace bacon with:
-
Sautéed mushrooms
-
Smoked paprika for depth
-
Caramelized onions
Low-Carb Friendly
This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb lifestyles when enjoyed in moderation.
Extra Crispy Top
For a crunchier topping, add a small handful of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and Parmesan during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Why Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin Belongs in Your Recipe Collection
Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin proves that comfort food does not need to be complicated. With simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and deeply satisfying flavors, this dish transforms everyday cabbage into a rich, creamy, oven-baked delight.
It is economical, versatile, and endlessly comforting — perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy weekend meals. Once you try it, this gratin is likely to become a regular part of your cooking rotation.
Final Thoughts: Try This Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin Today
If you are searching for a dish that combines simplicity, warmth, and bold flavor, Easy Bacon and White Cabbage Gratin is the answer. It celebrates classic ingredients, requires minimal effort, and delivers maximum comfort with every bite.
