We’ve always loved the comforting vibes of a Collard Green Casserole, a Southern favorite that turns humble greens into a cheesy, crowd-pleasing dish. Originating from soul food traditions, it’s a hearty twist on classic collards that brings warmth to any table.
This recipe showcases our simple approach to blending fresh ingredients with bold flavors, making it perfect for weeknights or gatherings. We’ll walk you through the steps so you can create your own version that’s both nutritious and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
To craft our Collard Green Casserole—a hearty Southern staple—we start by gathering these essential ingredients. We’ve organized them in the order we use them during preparation, with specific measurements and prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Collard Greens: 1 bunch (about 1 pound), washed, stemmed, and chopped into 1-inch pieces—fresh greens form the nutritious base of our dish.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, diced—used for sautéing to build a savory foundation.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced—added next for aromatic depth that enhances the flavors.
- Bacon: 6 slices, chopped—this optional smoky element brings traditional soul food essence; cook it first if including.
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup (low-sodium preferred)—poured in to simmer the greens and create a moist casserole.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded—melted for that irresistible cheesy layer we love in comfort food.
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup—for binding and adding creamy richness to the mixture.
- Eggs: 2 large, beaten—incorporated to help set the casserole structure.
- Breadcrumbs: ½ cup, plain—sprinkled on top for a crispy finish.
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika—season to taste for bold, balanced flavors that make our recipe stand out.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Collard Green Casserole seamlessly, we need the right tools and equipment. These essentials help us chop, mix, and bake efficiently, ensuring a smooth process from start to finish. Let’s outline what we’ll use, organized by category for clarity.
Essential Kitchen Tools
We recommend the following items to handle the preparation steps effectively:
- Cutting board: A sturdy, large cutting board is crucial for chopping collard greens, onions, and garlic without slippage.
- Chef’s knife: Use a sharp 8-inch chef’s knife to slice through tough collard greens and dice onions precisely.
- Mixing bowls: You’ll need at least two medium-sized mixing bowls—one for combining greens and veggies, and another for whisking eggs and cream.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measuring cups and spoons ensure we get the exact amounts of broth, cheese, and seasonings for balanced flavors.
Cooking and Baking Equipment
For the cooking and baking phases, gather these to achieve that perfect, golden-baked casserole:
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for blanching or sautéing the collard greens in broth to enhance their earthy taste.
- Whisk: A sturdy whisk helps us beat eggs smoothly and incorporate them into the mixture without lumps.
- Baking dish: Opt for a 9×13-inch casserole dish made of glass or ceramic to hold the mixture and allow even baking for a crispy top.
- Oven thermometer: If your oven runs hot or cool, an oven thermometer ensures we bake at the precise temperature for optimal results.
Additional Handy Items
These extras can make our preparation even more efficient:
- Colander: Use this to drain blanched collard greens quickly, removing excess moisture to prevent a soggy casserole.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients and transferring the mixture into the baking dish.
- Aluminum foil: Helpful for covering the dish during baking to avoid over-browning the top.
By having these tools ready, we set ourselves up for success in creating a delicious, hearty Collard Green Casserole that highlights the vibrant greens and cheesy layers.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through the steps to craft our hearty Collard Green Casserole. We’ll ensure each phase delivers maximum flavor and texture for an irresistible Southern classic.
Prepare Ingredients
Before we begin cooking, we start by prepping our ingredients to ensure everything is ready for seamless assembly. Begin with 1 bunch of collard greens—rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit, then remove the tough stems and roughly chop the leaves into 1-inch pieces for even cooking. Next, peel and dice 1 medium yellow onion into small, uniform pieces to enhance the savory base. Mince 2 cloves of garlic finely to release its aromatic punch when heated. If using, chop 4 ounces of bacon into small bits for added smokiness. Measure out 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 beaten eggs, and 1 cup of plain breadcrumbs to have them at hand. Finally, gather your seasonings—such as 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of paprika—to infuse depth into our dish.
Cook the Collard Greens
With ingredients prepped, we move to cooking the collard greens to achieve that tender, flavorful foundation. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, then add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden and release a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen. Stir in the chopped bacon if desired, cooking for another 2 minutes until it crisps slightly. Add the chopped collard greens and pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, stirring to combine. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the greens are soft and vibrant green, absorbing the rich, savory flavors that make this dish so comforting.
Assemble the Casserole
Now we assemble our casserole, layering ingredients for a cheesy, creamy masterpiece. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked collard greens with 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 2 beaten eggs, stirring until the mixture is evenly coated and creamy—the cheese will melt into a gooey delight. Gently fold in 1 cup of plain breadcrumbs for a subtle crunch, along with your seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. Transfer this mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly and topping with an extra ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a golden, bubbly crust that promises irresistible texture.
Bake the Casserole
Finally, we bake the casserole to perfection, transforming our assembly into a warm, aromatic dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the baking dish on the middle rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set with a slight jiggle—watch as the cheesy layers bubble and release an enticing scent of greens and spices. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld, ensuring each bite is packed with Southern soul.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To maximize convenience with our Collard Green Casserole, we offer practical strategies for preparing it in advance and storing it safely. This ensures the dish retains its comforting, cheesy flavors and tender greens while fitting seamlessly into your busy schedule.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love how this casserole lends itself to make-ahead preparation, allowing flavors to deepen and making it ideal for meal prep. Follow these steps to get ahead:
- Prepare the Mixture in Advance: After cooking the collard greens mixture as outlined in our preparation steps, let it cool completely. Combine it with the cheese, cream, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings in the mixing bowl. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This resting period lets the savory notes of the onions, garlic, and bacon (if used) meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Assemble and Refrigerate Unbaked: For even more flexibility, assemble the entire unbaked casserole in the 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover it securely and store in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator 30 minutes ahead to reach room temperature, then proceed with baking as directed. This method keeps the greens vibrant and the cheese gooey without compromising texture.
- Freeze for Later Use: If you plan further ahead, freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Wrap the dish in a double layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will maintain its fresh, hearty qualities for up to 2 months.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage preserves the casserole’s rich, bubbly goodness and ensures food safety. We recommend these methods to keep your dish at its best.
- Refrigerating Leftovers: Once baked and cooled to room temperature, portion the casserole into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and flavorful for 3 to 5 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven to restore that warm, melty cheese topping and tender greens.
- Freezing Baked Casserole: For longer-term storage, let the baked casserole cool completely, then cut into portions and wrap each securely in plastic wrap and foil. Place in freezer-safe bags or containers. Frozen, it holds up well for 2 to 3 months, retaining its comforting Southern essence without sogginess.
To summarize key storage durations, we provide the following table for quick reference:
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3 to 5 days | Best for short-term; reheat to maintain texture. |
| Freezing (Unbaked) | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. |
| Freezing (Baked) | 2 to 3 months | Reheat directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to restore crispiness. |
Always thaw frozen items in the refrigerator to avoid bacterial growth, and reheat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe enjoyment.
Conclusion
We’ve shared a simple yet delicious take on Collard Green Casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a nutritious twist on Southern favorites that brings warmth and flavor to our tables.
By trying this recipe, you’ll discover how easy it is to create a crowd-pleasing dish that elevates everyday meals. Let’s make it a staple in our kitchens for its comforting appeal and health benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Collard Green Casserole?
Collard Green Casserole is a classic Southern dish rooted in soul food traditions. It transforms nutritious collard greens into a cheesy, comforting meal by mixing them with ingredients like onions, garlic, cheese, and breadcrumbs, then baking until bubbly. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it offers a flavorful twist on greens.
What are the main ingredients for Collard Green Casserole?
Key ingredients include 1 bunch of collard greens, a medium yellow onion, minced garlic, optional bacon, low-sodium chicken broth, shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, beaten eggs, plain breadcrumbs, and seasonings. These create a savory, hearty base that enhances the greens’ natural flavors.
What tools do I need to make Collard Green Casserole?
You’ll need a cutting board, sharp chef’s knife, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a large pot or Dutch oven, whisk, 9×13-inch baking dish, and an oven thermometer. A colander, spatula, and aluminum foil can also help for efficient prep and cooking.
How do I prepare Collard Green Casserole?
Start by rinsing and chopping collard greens, then sauté with onion, garlic, and optional bacon until tender. Mix in cheese, cream, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Transfer to a baking dish and bake at the recommended temperature until golden and bubbly, about 30-45 minutes.
Can I make Collard Green Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate to enhance flavors. You can also assemble the full casserole and store it unbaked in the fridge for a day or freeze for up to 2 months. This makes it convenient for busy schedules.
How should I store Collard Green Casserole?
Store baked casserole in the fridge for 3-5 days or freeze for 2-3 months. For unbaked versions, refrigerate up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 2 months. Always reheat thoroughly in the oven to ensure food safety and maintain its comforting texture.
Is Collard Green Casserole healthy?
It can be nutritious thanks to collard greens, which are rich in vitamins and fiber. Using low-sodium broth and moderating cheese and bacon helps balance it. However, it’s indulgent due to cheese and cream, so enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.