Creamy Cabbage Cheese Mash with Crispy Sage Bangers

Creamy Cabbage Mash My Familys Bangers Mash Secret

By Kendra ThompsonSeptember 28, 2025

Table of Contents

Creamy Cabbage & Cheese Mash: Not Your Granny's Cabbage!

Ever find yourself staring at a cabbage, wondering what on earth to do with it? Honestly, cabbage uses are so much more exciting than you might think.

This recipe will blow your mind! I promise this ain't your average, boring boiled cabbage. Think comfort food turned up to eleven!

A Colcannon Kissed with Cheese and Crispy Sage

This Creamy Cabbage and Cheese Recipe is inspired by the classic Irish dish, Colcannon. We are talking about creamy mashed potatoes loaded with sautéed cabbage and a generous helping of sharp cheddar.

The crispy sage takes it to a whole new level. It's like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for a chilly evening.

Colcannon is a staple from Ireland. It's so good and filling!

This recipe is easy medium level. You'll need about 20 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking. So, under an hour and you are good to go.

This makes enough for four hearty servings. Perfect for a family dinner, or a comforting meal for yourself. No judgement here!

Why You'll Love This Cabbage Side Dish

Cabbage is packed with vitamin C and fibre. So, this recipe is not only delicious but also good for you! Okay, maybe the cheese offsets that a little, but hey, it’s all about balance, right?

This Comfort Food with Cabbage is perfect for a cosy night. Serve it as a side with roast chicken or pork.

Or even better, with juicy Bangers and Mash with Cabbage . What makes it special? The crispy sage adds a touch of elegance.

The sharp cheddar gives it that irresistible cheesiness. Oh my gosh! It is the perfect combination.

Next, we will dive into the list of ingredients. So, you can get everything ready. We will then go on and walk through the recipe step-by-step.

I know you will absolutely love it!

Alright, let's dive into the nitty gritty. Let's talk about the stuff we need. We'll nail these ingredients & equipment .

Main Ingredients for Cabbage Shenanigans

Okay, so, for the mash, you'll need 2 lbs (900g) of Maris Piper or Yukon Gold. Honestly, the potato choice matters.

They make the mash so creamy. Aim for potatoes that feel firm and smooth. You also need 1/2 cup (120ml) of whole milk and 4 tbsp (57g) of unsalted butter.

We're talking proper butter here! Don't forget salt and pepper. Season to your heart's content.

Next, the cabbage and cheese bit. Grab 1 tbsp (15ml) of olive oil and one small onion. Go for a yellow onion.

It’s sweeter. You will also need 1/2 head of green cabbage (about 1 lb/450g ). Make sure your cabbage is firm with tightly packed leaves.

One clove of garlic is all you need. Plus, 1/4 cup (60ml) of vegetable broth. The broth should be low sodium.

Lastly, 1 cup (113g) of grated sharp cheddar cheese. Mature cheddar is best, trust me. Don't forget 1/4 tsp of freshly grated nutmeg.

For the crispy sage, you'll want 2 tbsp (30ml) of olive oil and 1/4 cup of fresh sage leaves. The sage needs to be vibrant green.

For serving, you'll need 8 high-quality pork sausages. Splurge here, it makes a difference.

Seasoning Notes: Elevating the Humble Cabbage

Essential spice combos, eh? Nutmeg is your best friend with cabbage. It adds warmth. Garlic, always a winner. For substitutions, try a pinch of caraway seeds.

Want a little kick? A dash of red pepper flakes. Experiment with cabbage uses .

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

You'll need a large pot. Obvious, right? A potato masher or ricer. I prefer a ricer for super smooth mash.

You need a large skillet for the sautéed cabbage recipes . A small skillet for the sage. That’s it. No need for fancy gadgets.

Got no ricer? A fork works in a pinch.

Honestly, thinking about cabbage side dish ideas now makes me wanna cook, straight away! You know? I once tried to make this using red cabbage.

Total disaster, the color was awful! Green cabbage all the way for this, trust me.

Oh, this recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover cabbage leaves , don't ya think? Thinking of bangers and mash with cabbage or this creamy cabbage mash is just pure comfort food with cabbage .

And if you're looking for some more cabbage recipes for dinner , this one is a great start! Now, let's get cooking!

Right then, let's whip up some magic with this cabbage uses recipe. Honestly, who knew the humble cabbage could be so versatile? We're not just talking about any old sautéed cabbage recipes here.

I'm talking about a full-on comfort food experience!

Creamy Cabbage & Cheese Mash: Bangers Best Mate

This recipe takes the traditional Colcannon Recipe and gives it a modern, cheesy twist. Forget boring boiled cabbage. We're elevating it to something truly special, think a creamy, dreamy mash that pairs perfectly with juicy bangers.

It’s comfort food with cabbage at its finest. You know? Something to warm you up on a chilly evening.

Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission

First things first, get your ingredients prepped. This is what the cool chefs call "mise en place." Basically, it means having everything ready to go.

Peel and chop 2 lbs potatoes . Thinly slice 1/2 a head of green cabbage . Finely chop 1 small onion . Mince 1 clove of garlic .

Grate 1 cup of cheddar cheese . And grab 1/4 cup of fresh sage leaves . This is your essential mise en place for our creamy cabbage mash!

Time saving tip: Chop the cabbage and onion in advance if you're short on time.

step-by-step Cabbage Creation

Ready to get cooking? Here's the lowdown:

Boil the potatoes: Get those spuds bubbling in salted water until they're fork tender, about 15- 20 minutes .
Mash time: Drain the potatoes and mash them with 1/2 cup of milk and 2 tbsp of butter . Season with salt and pepper.
Sauté the cabbage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil . Sauté the onion until softened. Add the cabbage and garlic and cook until tender crisp. Deglaze the pan with 1/4 cup of vegetable broth .
Combine: Stir the cabbage mixture, 1 cup of cheddar cheese , and 1/4 tsp of nutmeg into the mashed potatoes.
Crisp the sage: In a small skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil . Fry the sage leaves until crispy. This only takes a few seconds, watch them carefully!. Drain on paper towels.
Cook the bangers: Cook your favourite pork sausages according to packet instructions. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) .
Plate it up: Serve the Creamy Cabbage Mash , topped with the Crispy Sage Cabbage and those glorious bangers.

Pro Tips for Cabbage Success

Don't overcook the cabbage . You want it to have a bit of bite, not be all mushy.
For extra flavour, add a splash of vinegar to the cabbage while sautéing.
Want to make it ahead? The mash can be made in advance and gently reheated, so that's one of those really good uses for cabbage leaves without wasting anything.

Honestly, this recipe is a game changer. It will make you love cabbage recipes for dinner . Give it a go and let me know what you think!

Recipe Notes: Creamy Cabbage & Cheese Mash with Crispy Sage & Bangers

Right then, let’s chat about some extra bits and bobs to make this Creamy Cabbage & Cheese Mash with Crispy Sage & Bangers recipe even more smashing! Honestly, this isn’t just any old colcannon recipe ; it's a proper upgrade.

I’ve thrown in a few tricks I’ve picked up along the way. It uses for cabbage leaves as the star.

Uses for cabbage leaves is not just for decoration, okay? So, keep on reading to find out!.

Get That Plating Instagram Ready

Presentation is key, innit? Pile that glorious Creamy Cabbage Mash high on a plate. Arrange the bangers artfully around it.

Sprinkle those Crispy Sage Cabbage leaves on top like confetti. A sprig of fresh thyme? Absolutely! For drinks, a cold pint of Guinness is classic.

But, if you are not a stout drinker, some apple cider would be lovely too.

Storage Know How

Got leftovers? Ace! The Creamy Cabbage Mash will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure you store it in an airtight container.

Freezing is an option, but the texture might change a bit. Give it a good stir when reheating. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave.

About the Bangers, eat them straight away!.

Twists and Turns: Make it Your Own!

Fancy a change? Wanting dietary adaptations? Ditch the sausages for grilled halloumi for a vegetarian option. For my vegan friends, go for plant based milk, butter, and cheese.

And vegan sausages, obvs! Instead of cheddar, try some Gruyere or Parmesan. Got loads of cabbage? This is one of the best cabbage uses around!

Seasonal swaps? In autumn, chuck in some roasted butternut squash to the mash for sweetness. Some might call this dish comfort food with cabbage .

Quick Nutrition Lowdown

Alright, a rough idea of what you are getting. Per serving, you're looking at around 650 calories. 30g protein, 40g fat, and 45g carbs.

But remember, these are just estimates based on the ingredients. It’s like your weather forecast; not always spot-on. What's important is that the recipe is full of veggies.

Don't be shy about looking up Sautéed Cabbage Recipes and get some extra vitamins on the go!.

So there you have it. Loads of ideas to elevate this cabbage and cheese recipe. It should be tasty every single time.

Now get in that kitchen and give it a go! You've got this! This Cabbage Side Dish Ideas will have them asking for more.

Try some Bangers and Mash with Cabbage for good measure, you guv'nor!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this creamy cabbage and cheese mash ahead of time?

Absolutely! The mashed potatoes part of this dish can definitely be made in advance. Just reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, to maintain that lovely creamy texture.

Hold off on adding the crispy sage until just before serving to keep it nice and crunchy nobody likes soggy sage!

What are some other cabbage uses besides this mash recipe?

Cabbage is incredibly versatile! Besides this delicious Creamy Cabbage & Cheese Mash, you can use it in classic coleslaw, stir fries, soups, or even fermented into sauerkraut or kimchi. It’s fantastic roasted with a bit of olive oil and seasoning too.

Think of it as the Doctor Who of the vegetable world capable of regenerating into countless forms!

I'm vegetarian. Can I adapt this recipe?

Definitely! The easiest swap is to use vegetarian sausages instead of pork bangers. You can also add some grilled halloumi cheese for a salty, satisfying protein boost. Alternatively, consider adding some roasted chickpeas seasoned with paprika and cumin for a more substantial vegetarian meal it’s a bit like a culinary plot twist!

How long will leftovers of this cabbage mash last, and what's the best way to store them?

Leftovers should keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly, ensuring it’s piping hot, before serving. You might need to add a splash of milk when reheating to restore the creamy consistency. It's like giving your leftovers a little spa treatment!

Is there anything I should know about the nutritional value of this dish?

This Creamy Cabbage & Cheese Mash provides a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and Vitamin C. Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable known for its health benefits, including fiber and antioxidants. However, be mindful of the higher fat content due to the cheese and butter.

As with all good things, moderation is key think of it as having your cake and eating (some of) it!

My sage burned! What did I do wrong and what can I do now?

Oh dear, burned sage is a real kitchen bummer! Sage leaves crisp up very quickly, so the oil was probably too hot. Next time, use medium low heat and watch them like a hawk. As for now, don't fret!

The dish will still be delicious without it; perhaps sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme on top for a bit of herbaceousness. If you have more sage, try again with a lower heat, or omit the sage entirely and add a small pinch of dried sage to the mashed potato mixture to incorporate the flavor.