Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe

This Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe feels like a warm hug from the South. It is simple. It is hearty. It feels like something your grandmother would make on a quiet afternoon.

I love how humble cabbage turns rich and comforting here. This dish proves simple food can still feel special. When you learn how to make Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole, you will understand why it stays close to the heart.

The Ingredients for Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole are basic, but the flavor feels deep and loving.

Why I Love Making This Cabbage Casserole

I love this dish because it reminds me of slow days. Days when food cooked gently. No rush. No stress. Just care.

Cabbage casserole fills the kitchen with a soft, cozy smell. It feels old-fashioned in the best way. It is budget friendly. It feeds many people.

It also reheats beautifully. Every bite feels creamy, tender and comforting. This is food that brings people together.

Equipment List

• Large pot for boiling cabbage
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Medium baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Oven

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole
• Servings: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Course: Main dish or side dish
• Cuisine: Southern American
• Calories: About 280 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole

• 1 large head of green cabbage, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 sleeve buttery crackers, crushed
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Cabbage

Fill a large pot with water. Add salt. Bring it to a boil. Add chopped cabbage. Cook until tender. This takes about ten minutes. Drain well. Let the cabbage cool slightly. Press gently to remove extra water. This helps avoid a watery casserole.

2. Cook the Onion and Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter. Once melted, add diced onion. Cook until soft and clear. Add ground beef next. Break it apart while cooking. Cook until no pink remains. Drain excess grease. This keeps the dish rich, not heavy.

3. Season the Meat

Sprinkle salt, pepper and garlic powder over the beef. Stir gently. Let it cook one more minute. This helps the flavors wake up. Simple seasoning works best here. Do not overdo it.

4. Mix the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, add cream of mushroom soup. Add sour cream and milk. Stir until smooth. This mixture will hold everything together. It should look creamy and thick but easy to pour.

5. Combine Everything

Add cooked cabbage to the bowl. Add the seasoned beef mixture. Pour the creamy base over it all. Gently fold everything together. Make sure cabbage gets coated. This is where the magic starts.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a medium baking dish lightly. Pour the cabbage mixture inside. Spread evenly. Press down gently with a spoon. This helps it bake evenly and slice better later.

7. Add Cheese Layer

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. This adds richness and flavor. The cheese melts into the casserole and makes it feel indulgent.

8. Make the Cracker Topping

Crush buttery crackers in a bowl. Pour melted butter over them. Stir well. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer. This creates a golden, crunchy top.

9. Bake the Casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover the dish with foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil. Bake another 15 minutes. The top should look golden and bubbly. Let it rest before serving.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Drain cabbage very well to avoid excess liquid
• Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter dish
• Add cooked bacon for smoky flavor
• Swap cheddar for Colby Jack cheese
• Add paprika for gentle warmth
• Use crushed cornflakes instead of crackers
• Let casserole rest ten minutes before serving

History or Fun Fact About the Dish

Cabbage casseroles became popular during hard times. Cabbage was cheap and filling. Southern cooks learned to stretch ingredients. Brenda Gantt celebrates these traditions.

Her recipes honor simple food made with care. This casserole carries that spirit. It shows how humble ingredients can feed a family with love.

Pairings & Complementary Recipes

Serve it with warm cornbread. Add green beans with butter. A fresh tomato salad works nicely.

Mashed potatoes also pair well. Sweet tea makes it complete. You can also serve it beside fried chicken or baked ham.

Occasion or Event Ideas

This casserole fits many moments. It is perfect for Sunday dinners. It works for church potlucks. It travels well for family gatherings.

It suits holiday tables too. It also makes a comforting weeknight meal. One dish feeds many hungry hearts.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container
• Keep refrigerated for up to four days
• Freeze for up to two months
• Thaw overnight in the fridge
• Reheat in oven at 325°F
• Microwave in short intervals
• Add a splash of milk if dry

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	280 kcal
Protein	16 g
Fat	20 g
Carbohydrates	12 g
Fiber	4 g
Sodium	520 mg

Health Benefits

Cabbage is rich in fiber and vitamins. It supports digestion and gut health. It is low in calories but filling.

This casserole also provides protein and calcium. While creamy, it still offers balance. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a varied diet.

FAQs about Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe

Can I make Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it one day ahead. Assemble everything except the cracker topping. Cover and refrigerate. Add topping just before baking for best texture and flavor.

How do I keep my cabbage casserole from being watery?
Always drain the cabbage very well. Press out extra water. Also avoid adding extra milk. These small steps make a big difference in final texture.

Can I make this recipe without meat?
Yes, you can skip the beef. Add sautéed mushrooms instead. This keeps the dish hearty and flavorful while staying vegetarian friendly.

What cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar melts well and adds sharp flavor. You can also use Colby Jack or Monterey Jack. Avoid very soft cheeses as they can make it greasy.

Is this recipe freezer friendly?
Yes, it freezes well. Cool completely first. Wrap tightly. Freeze up to two months. Thaw slowly and reheat gently for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe proves comfort food does not need to be complicated. It uses simple ingredients and gentle steps. Every bite feels warm and familiar.

If you love old-style cooking, this dish belongs in your kitchen. Try it once and it may become a family favorite forever.