Cheesy Turkey Bacon & Green Cabbage Gratin
Description
Cheesy Turkey Bacon & Green Cabbage Gratin is a rich, oven-baked dish featuring tender sautéed cabbage layered with smoky turkey bacon and coated in a creamy garlic cheese sauce. Finished with a golden, bubbling crust, this gratin delivers comforting flavors with a lighter twist thanks to turkey bacon and nutrient-rich cabbage. It’s ideal for family dinners, holiday sides, or low-carb meal plans.
Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Difficulty: Easy–Medium
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Base
1 medium green cabbage (about 800g / 1.7 lb), chopped
6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
1 small onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1½ cups milk (whole milk preferred)
½ cup heavy cream (optional but recommended)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
For Topping
½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)
1 tbsp chopped parsley (garnish)
- Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
Lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2: Cook Turkey Bacon
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook chopped turkey bacon until lightly crispy.
Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pan, add olive oil.
Cook onion until soft (3–4 minutes).
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add chopped cabbage, salt, and pepper.
Cook until cabbage softens and reduces (8–10 minutes).
Stir turkey bacon back in and remove from heat.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in milk and cream.
Simmer until thickened (3–5 minutes).
Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, paprika, and nutmeg.
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Gratin
Spread cabbage mixture in baking dish.
Pour cheese sauce evenly over the top.
Sprinkle with additional cheese and breadcrumbs.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with parsley.
Pro Tips
Cook cabbage until just tender — overcooking makes it watery.
Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
For extra richness, mix Gruyère-style cheese with cheddar.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish low-carb?
Yes — simply skip breadcrumbs. The dish is naturally low in carbs.
2. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
3. What can I use instead of turkey bacon?
Chicken bacon
Mushrooms for vegetarian option
4. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in airtight container up to 3 days.
Reheat in oven at 180°C (350°F) until warm.
5. Can I freeze cabbage gratin?
Yes. Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving — Approximate)
NutrientAmount
Calories:360 kcal
Protein:18 g
Carbohydrates:14 g
Fat:26 g
Saturated Fat:14 g
Fiber:4 g
Sugar:6 g
Sodium:520 mg
Calcium :28% DV