Scottish Rumbledethumps Recipe
Introduction
Scottish Rumbledethumps is a comforting and hearty casserole featuring mashed potatoes, sautéed cabbage, and onions, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. This traditional Scottish dish is perfect as a warming side or a satisfying vegetarian main.

Ingredients
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 head Savoy or green cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 large onions, diced
- 1 stick butter
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400˚F (200˚C).
- Step 2: Boil the diced potatoes in a medium saucepan until they are fork tender. Drain well and return them to the pan. Mash the potatoes until smooth and set aside.
- Step 3: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded cabbage and diced onions, sautéing until wilted but not browned. Remove from heat.
- Step 4: Stir half of the shredded cheddar cheese and all the mashed potatoes into the sautéed cabbage and onions until the cheese melts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a 2-quart (or 9×9 inch) casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.
- Step 6: Cover the dish with a lid or foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese topping is golden and bubbly.
Tips & Variations
- Use smoked cheddar for a richer, slightly smoky flavor.
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a non-vegetarian twist.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of cream or milk into the mashed potatoes before mixing.
- Ensure the cabbage is finely shredded to help it cook evenly and blend well with the potatoes.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350˚F (175˚C) oven until heated through, about 15–20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until hot.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular green cabbage instead of Savoy?
Yes, regular green cabbage works well. It may have a slightly different texture but will still taste delicious.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the dish in advance, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
PrintScottish Rumbledethumps Recipe
Scottish Rumbledethumps is a traditional hearty casserole featuring a comforting blend of mashed potatoes, sautéed cabbage, onions, and sharp cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. This classic Scottish dish offers a delicious combination of creamy textures and savory flavors, perfect as a warming side or vegetarian main.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 head Savoy or green cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 large onions, diced
Dairy & Fats
- 1 stick butter (113 grams)
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded (about 100 grams)
Seasonings
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the dish later.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the diced potatoes in a medium saucepan, cover with water, and boil until they are fork tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pan.
- Mash the Potatoes: Mash the boiled potatoes until smooth and creamy. Set aside while preparing the vegetables.
- Sauté Cabbage and Onions: Melt the stick of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely shredded cabbage and diced onions, cooking gently until they are wilted but not browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Combine Ingredients: In the skillet with the cooked cabbage and onions, add half of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the mashed potatoes. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the cheese melts and the mixture is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a 2-quart or 9×9 inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with a lid or foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This heats the dish through and allows flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the lid or foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes. This final step lets the cheese topping become golden, bubbly, and slightly crispy.
Notes
- Use Savoy cabbage for a milder, sweeter flavor and a softer texture.
- Ensure the potatoes are well mashed to achieve a creamy texture.
- Sauté the cabbage and onions just until wilted to avoid browning, which keeps the flavors fresh.
- Covering the casserole during baking helps keep the moisture in, while uncovering at the end creates a lovely crust.
- Leftovers reheated in the oven maintain the best texture and taste.
Keywords: Scottish rumbledethumps, mashed potato casserole, cabbage casserole, traditional Scottish recipe, vegetarian casserole, comfort food

