Place a small skillet over medium-low heat and cook the bacon until crisp.
Remove the bacon from the pan with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain, then set aside.
Add 1 tablespoon butter to the bacon fat in the skillet.
When the butter melts, add half of the garlic and stir with a wooden spoon to soften.
Add the cabbage and coat it with the butter mixture. Cook the cabbage slowly until it wilts.
Add the bacon to the cabbage and mix. Season with salt and black pepper.
Remove the skillet from heat and add most of the chives, saving a little for garnish.
Spread butter on the bottom and sides of a casserole dish.
In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, 1½ cups of cream, 1 cup of Parmesan, and the remaining garlic. Season with salt and black pepper.
Place a layer of potatoes in the casserole dish. Sprinkle Parmesan over the potatoes.
Add 2 more layers of potatoes and Parmesan.
Spoon the cabbage mixture on top and spread it evenly over the potatoes.
Add 2 more layers of potatoes and Parmesan on top of the cabbage.
Pour the remaining 1 cup of cream over the dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan on top.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 1 hour.
Remove the foil and bake for 30 minutes until golden brown.
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives.
Notes
Tips and Tricks
Slice Potatoes Evenly - Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice the potatoes to about ⅛-inch thick. Even slices help the potatoes cook at the same rate.Don't Skip the Resting Time - Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.Save Some Bacon Fat - The bacon fat adds flavor to the cabbage. Don't drain it all before adding the butter and garlic.Layer Carefully - Press down gently on each potato layer to help them stick together. This creates a more cohesive casserole.Check for Doneness - Insert a knife into the center of the casserole. If it slides through the potatoes easily, the dish is ready.Adjust Seasoning - Taste the cabbage mixture before adding it to the casserole. Add more salt or pepper if needed.
Storing and Reheating
Store in Refrigerator - Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.Reheat in Oven - Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350 degrees F for 20 to 25 minutes until warmed through.Reheat Individual Servings - Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway through.Freeze for Later - Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.