Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe | Creamy, Simple & Delicious

Craving Classic Southern Comfort?

When I think of Brenda Gantt, I think of simple country cooking made with love, and her Cabbage Casserole Recipe is no exception. This dish is packed with tender cabbage, sweet onions, and a creamy mixture of Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup, mayo, and butter. And let me tell you, the buttery Ritz cracker and cheddar cheese topping is what takes it over the top.

It’s the kind of recipe that reminds me of family dinners around the table, with everyone sneaking second helpings before the dish even cools. If you’ve been searching for a Brenda Gantt cabbage recipe or want a Southern casserole to impress, you’re in for a real treat.

This cabbage casserole is hearty enough to be served as a main dish with cornbread on the side, or you can make it the star side dish alongside fried chicken, pork chops, or even a holiday ham.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this casserole is simple, but the flavours come together like magic. Here’s how I do it:

Step 1: Prep the Oven & Dish

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  
• Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish to keep the casserole from sticking.
  

Step 2: Layer the Vegetables

• Chop the cabbage into medium-sized pieces and evenly place them in the baking dish.
  
• Slice the Vidalia onion thinly and spread the slices over the cabbage.
  
• Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture

• In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, melted butter, and mayonnaise.
  
• Stir until everything is smooth and creamy.
  
• Pour this mixture evenly over the cabbage and onion, making sure it spreads throughout.
  

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

• In another bowl, mix melted butter, crushed Ritz crackers, and shredded cheddar cheese.
  
• This creates the crunchy, cheesy topping that makes Brenda’s casserole unforgettable.
  

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

• Sprinkle the cracker-cheese mixture over the casserole.
  
• Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  
• Keep an eye on it near the end to avoid over-baking.
  

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

• Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
  
• The inside will be creamy, the cabbage tender, and the topping crispy with that buttery, cheesy bite.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is pure Southern comfort, and I love serving it in different ways depending on the occasion:

• As a Main Dish: Pair it with warm buttermilk cornbread and a side of fried okra or green beans for a proper Southern supper.
  
• As a Side Dish: It’s perfect alongside fried chicken, baked ham, or pork chops. It even makes a delicious addition to holiday tables for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
  
• With Fresh Garnishes: Sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar or fresh parsley on top right before serving for a touch of freshness.

Storage Instructions

Keeping It Fresh

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my kitchen!), You can store them easily:

• Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions into an airtight container.
  
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  

Freezing Brenda’s Cabbage Casserole

Yes, this recipe freezes well!

• Let the casserole cool completely.
  
• Wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
  
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
  
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Yes, you can substitute red cabbage, but the flavour will be bolder and earthier. Green cabbage is traditional in Brenda Gantt’s recipe because it has a milder, sweeter taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole (without the cracker topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add the Ritz cracker and cheese topping, then bake as directed.

3. What can I serve with Brenda Gantt’s Cabbage Casserole?

This casserole is versatile. It works as a main dish with cornbread or as a side dish with fried chicken, pork chops, or baked ham. For holiday meals, it pairs wonderfully with turkey or roast beef.

4. Can I freeze cabbage casserole?

Yes! Once cooled, wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F.

5. Can I use a different cheese for the topping?

Of course! While sharp cheddar is classic, you can try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky Gouda for a twist on Brenda’s original flavour.

6. How do I keep the topping extra crispy?

For the crispiest topping, bake uncovered. If you notice the topping getting too dark before the casserole is fully cooked, cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Brenda Gantt’s Cabbage Casserole Recipe is the perfect example of how simple Southern ingredients can turn into something downright special. With tender cabbage, creamy filling, and that buttery cracker topping, every bite feels like a warm hug from the South.

Whether you’re cooking it for Sunday dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or adding it to your holiday spread, this dish is always a hit. I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it delivers the kind of flavour that makes people say, “Can I have seconds?”

So go ahead, preheat that oven, grab your cabbage, and cook up a little taste of Brenda’s kitchen. I promise, it’ll become a family favourite in no time!