Collard green casserole is a comforting Southern classic that brings rich flavors and hearty goodness to any meal. This dish transforms nutritious collard greens into a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
We love how this casserole combines tender greens with savory ingredients to create a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re a longtime fan of collard greens or trying them for the first time, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy this leafy green vegetable.
Ingredients
To craft a delicious Collard Green Casserole, we use a carefully selected blend of fresh greens, creamy dairy, savory proteins, and bold seasonings. Each group of ingredients plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this dish unforgettable.
Collard Greens
- 1 pound fresh collard greens, washed, stemmed, and chopped
- (We prefer fresh greens for the best texture and earthiness, but frozen can be substituted if needed.)
Dairy and Cheese
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- (These dairy ingredients create the casserole’s signature creamy and cheesy consistency.)
Meat and Protein
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- Optional: 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
- (Adding bacon brings savory depth and a slight smokiness to the dish.)
Spices and Seasonings
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 2 cloves garlic, minced | 2 cloves | Adds aromatic flavor |
| 1 small onion, finely chopped | 1 small | Provides sweetness and texture |
| 1 teaspoon smoked paprika | 1 tsp | Enhances smoky undertones |
| 1/2 teaspoon black pepper | 1/2 tsp | Balances flavors with mild heat |
| Salt, to taste | To taste | Elevates all other ingredients |
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (preferably homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (to toast breadcrumbs)
- (Breadcrumbs toasted in olive oil or butter add a golden crunchy topping to complete our collard green casserole.)
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Collard Green Casserole flawlessly, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Each tool supports a specific step in our baking process, ensuring efficiency and perfect results every time.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large pot
For blanching and tenderizing the fresh collard greens. Choose a pot with sufficient capacity to hold about 1 pound of greens comfortably.
- Colander
To drain the greens thoroughly after boiling, preventing excess water from diluting the casserole’s creamy texture.
- Skillet or sauté pan
For crisping the bacon and toasting the fresh breadcrumbs in olive oil or butter. A heavy-bottomed pan works best to avoid burning.
- Mixing bowls
One medium bowl for mixing the cooked greens with cheese, bacon, and seasonings; another small bowl for combining the breadcrumb topping.
- Sharp knife and cutting board
To chop the collard greens, bacon, and aromatics precisely.
- 9×13-inch baking dish
We recommend a glass or ceramic casserole dish to ensure even baking and easy serving.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Precision is key for adding spices and dairy ingredients like sharp cheddar cheese and cream.
- Oven mitts
For safely handling the hot casserole dish when removing it from the oven.
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large pot | Blanching collard greens | 5-6 quarts capacity ideal |
| Colander | Draining greens | Medium to large size |
| Skillet or sauté pan | Crisping bacon & toasting breadcrumbs | Non-stick or cast iron preferred |
| Mixing bowls | Combining ingredients | Multiple sizes recommended |
| Sharp knife & cutting board | Chopping greens, bacon, and aromatics | Ensure sharpness for safety |
| 9×13-inch baking dish | Baking the casserole | Glass or ceramic |
| Measuring cups & spoons | Measuring dry & liquid ingredients | Accurate measurements crucial |
| Oven mitts | Safe handling of hot bakeware | Heat-resistant |
With this equipment ready, we set ourselves up to create an indulgent, cheesy collard green casserole that boasts rich flavors and textures from start to finish.
Prep Work
Before assembling our collard green casserole, it’s essential to prepare each ingredient properly to ensure optimal flavor and texture. Let’s focus on cleaning and blanching the greens, then prepping the other components.
Preparing the Collard Greens
First, we take 1 pound of fresh collard greens and follow these steps:
- Rinse thoroughly under cold running water to remove dirt and grit.
- Strip the leaves from the thick stems by running your hand down the stem.
- Stack the leaves, roll them into a tight bundle, and slice into 1-inch wide ribbons for even cooking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Blanch the collard greens for 3 to 4 minutes until vibrant and tender but still slightly firm.
- Drain greens in a colander and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Squeeze out excess water using your hands or a clean kitchen towel to prevent sogginess in the casserole.
Prepping Other Ingredients
While the greens blanch, we can prepare the remaining ingredients for smooth assembly:
| Ingredient | Preparation Details |
|---|---|
| Bacon (6 slices) | Cook in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels then crumble. |
| Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 cup) | Grate finely for creamy melting texture. |
| Garlic (2 cloves) | Mince finely to distribute flavor evenly. |
| Onion (1 medium) | Dice finely for even sauteing and sweetness. |
| Breadcrumbs (1 cup) | Toast lightly in olive oil or butter until golden brown for a crunchy topping. |
Together, these prep steps build the foundation for our rich, savory, and cheesy collard green casserole — a dish worthy of every Southern table.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to prepare our rich and cheesy Collard Green Casserole that promises a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and crunchy textures.
Cooking the Collard Greens
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the prepared collard greens to the boiling water and blanch them for exactly 5 minutes to retain their vibrant color and tender texture.
- Drain immediately using a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Squeeze out excess moisture gently with your hands or a clean towel.
- Chop the blanched greens into bite-sized pieces if you haven’t done so during prep.
Making the Sauce or Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the 6 slices of crumbled bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside on paper towels to drain excess fat.
- In the same skillet, sauté 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in the bacon fat until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in 2 cups of whole milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.
- Reduce heat and add 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Season with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and incorporate it evenly into the sauce.
Combining Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped collard greens and cheese-bacon sauce.
- Stir thoroughly to ensure the greens are fully coated in the creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Prepare the breadcrumb topping: heat 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter in a small skillet over medium heat, add 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs, and toast until golden brown and crisp, stirring frequently.
- Set the toasted breadcrumbs aside for the final topping layer.
Baking the Casserole
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Pour the collard greens mixture into the baking dish, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumb topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
| Step | Key Actions | Time/Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking greens | Blanch collards | 5 minutes at boil |
| Making sauce | Cook bacon, sauté aromatics, make roux, add milk & cheese | 10 minutes, medium heat |
| Combining | Mix greens with sauce, toast breadcrumbs | — |
| Baking | Bake assembled casserole | 25-30 min at 350°F |
Serving Suggestions
Our Collard Green Casserole shines as a hearty side or a satisfying main dish. To maximize its appeal and complement the rich, cheesy flavors, consider the following serving ideas:
Pair with Classic Southern Entrees
Serve alongside fried chicken, smoked ham, or barbecue ribs. These proteins balance perfectly with the creamy texture and smoky notes of the casserole.
Add a Touch of Freshness
A crisp garden salad or a tangy coleslaw provides brightness and contrast to the casserole’s richness. Use dressings like vinaigrette or lemon-based sauces for extra zing.
Complement with Starches
Offer warm cornbread, mashed potatoes, or buttered dinner rolls on the side. These starches soak up the creamy sauce and round out the meal.
Top It Off for Presentation and Flavor Boost
Finish the casserole with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions. For added texture, a dusting of smoked paprika or a few extra crumbles of crispy bacon works beautifully.
| Serving Complement | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Chicken | Crispy, savory protein | Contrasts creamy casserole texture |
| Smoked Ham | Smoky, flavorful meat | Enhances casserole’s smoky notes |
| Garden Salad | Fresh mixed greens with vinaigrette | Balances richness with acidity |
| Coleslaw | Crunchy cabbage slaw | Adds crispness and tang |
| Cornbread | Sweet, buttery bread | Soaks up the creamy sauce |
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy, smooth potatoes | Comforting starch complement |
As we plate our collard green casserole, we recommend serving it warm to enjoy the full range of flavors and textures. This casserole also holds well for reheating, making it an ideal dish for leftovers or meal prep.
“This casserole pairs wonderfully with almost any Southern classic, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser at family dinners or holiday celebrations.”
These suggestions ensure that our dish takes center stage while harmonizing with complementary textures and flavors for a memorable dining experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep our collard green casserole fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. After baking, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature. Then transfer it to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
Refrigeration
- Store the casserole in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- When ready to serve, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, to restore its creamy texture and crispy topping.
- Avoid microwaving to maintain the casserole’s ideal texture and flavor.
Freezing
For longer storage we can freeze the casserole:
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| Cool | Let the casserole cool completely after baking. |
| Wrap | Cover securely with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. |
| Label | Mark with the date for reference. |
| Freeze Duration | Store in freezer for up to 3 months for best quality. |
| Thaw | Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. |
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the casserole a day ahead by completing all steps up to assembling in the baking dish. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake the next day, adding 5-10 extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
- For holiday gatherings, this make-ahead strategy saves valuable time and allows flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
- Toast breadcrumbs and cook bacon ahead, storing them separately in airtight containers at room temperature or in the fridge.
By following these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips, our collard green casserole will retain its rich, cheesy goodness and crunchy topping for multiple meals, making it a convenient and crowd-pleasing dish to enjoy anytime.
Conclusion
This collard green casserole brings together bold flavors and comforting textures that everyone will love. It’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into any meal, whether as a hearty side or a satisfying main.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can easily create a dish that feels both classic and special. Its make-ahead potential and storage tips also make it a practical choice for busy days or festive occasions.
Let’s keep this recipe in our rotation to enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness of collard greens anytime we want.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in collard green casserole?
The casserole features fresh collard greens, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, garlic, onion, smoked paprika, and toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
How do you prepare collard greens for the casserole?
Rinse, strip, slice, then blanch the collard greens to maintain color and texture before cooling them for the recipe.
What kitchen tools are needed to make collard green casserole?
You’ll need a large pot, colander, skillet, mixing bowls, sharp knife, cutting board, 9×13-inch baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, and oven mitts.
How long do you bake the collard green casserole?
Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is golden and bubbly.
Can collard green casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, prepare in advance and refrigerate overnight to let flavors meld. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.
What dishes pair well with collard green casserole?
It goes great with fried chicken, smoked ham, garden salad, coleslaw, cornbread, or mashed potatoes.
How should leftovers be stored?
Cool to room temperature, then keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Is collard green casserole suitable as a main dish?
Yes, it’s hearty and can be served as a satisfying main or a flavorful side dish.
What gives the casserole its crunchy topping?
Fresh breadcrumbs toasted in olive oil or butter provide the golden, crunchy topping.
Can I substitute any ingredients in the casserole?
While key ingredients create the classic flavor, you can adjust seasonings or cheese types, but fresh collard greens and bacon are essential for authenticity.