Scottish Rumbledethumps Recipe
Introduction
Scottish Rumbledethumps is a comforting traditional dish made from mashed potatoes, turnips, and cabbage. It’s a hearty, cheesy bake perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal.

Ingredients
- 21 oz boiled and mashed russet potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes)
- 14 oz boiled and mashed turnips (about 2 medium turnips)
- 3 oz unsalted butter, divided
- 9 oz green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 1/2 a head)
- 1 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 1/4 cup)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with some butter to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 oz of butter. Add the thinly sliced cabbage and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes slightly softened.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, mashed turnips, sautéed cabbage, the remaining 1 oz of butter, salt, and pepper. Mash everything together thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Step 5: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the top is lightly browned.
- Step 6: Allow the rumbledethumps to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of cream or milk to the mashed potatoes and turnips before mixing.
- Use red cabbage instead of green for a colorful twist and slightly different taste.
- Swap sharp cheddar for smoked cheese to add a smoky depth.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure the butter used is plant-based.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The dish may dry out slightly when reheated, so adding a small dab of butter or a splash of milk can help keep it moist.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and keep it covered in the fridge before baking. Bake just before serving to enjoy it fresh and hot.
What can I substitute if I can’t find turnips?
Swede (rutabaga) or kohlrabi make great substitutes as they have a similar texture and mild earthy flavor.
PrintScottish Rumbledethumps Recipe
Scottish Rumbledethumps is a traditional comforting side dish featuring a flavorful blend of mashed potatoes, turnips, and sautéed cabbage, topped with sharp cheddar cheese and baked to golden perfection. This hearty casserole captures the essence of Scottish countryside cooking, making it an ideal accompaniment to roasted meats or a satisfying vegetarian main.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 21 oz boiled and mashed russet potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes)
- 14 oz boiled and mashed turnips (about 2 medium turnips)
- 9 oz green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 1/2 a head)
Dairy & Fats
- 3 oz unsalted butter, divided
- 1 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 1/4 cup)
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter to prevent sticking and enhance richness.
- Sauté Cabbage: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 2 oz of the butter. Add the thinly sliced green cabbage and sauté for about 5 minutes or until the cabbage is slightly softened but still has some texture and color.
- Combine Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the boiled and mashed russet potatoes, boiled and mashed turnips, sautéed cabbage, remaining 1 oz of butter, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mash and mix together vigorously until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top to create a flavorful crust when baked.
- Bake with Foil: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the mixture to heat thoroughly.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to brown the cheese topping lightly, giving a nice golden crust and added texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Once baked, let the Rumbledethumps sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps it set slightly for easier slicing and serving. Enjoy this traditional Scottish dish warm as a hearty side.
Notes
- For a sharper flavor, try using mature cheddar or mix in a little smoked cheese.
- You can substitute turnips with rutabagas if desired for a slightly sweeter taste.
- Ensure the cabbage is only slightly softened to maintain some bite and prevent mushiness.
- This dish works well as a vegetarian main when served with a fresh green salad.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Keywords: Scottish rumbledethumps, mashed potatoes, turnip casserole, baked cabbage dish, traditional Scottish recipes, vegetarian side dishes

