Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe: A Southern Comfort Classic

If you’re craving a cozy, down-home dish straight from the Southern kitchen, the Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe is just what you need.

Known for her old-fashioned charm and home-cooked meals, Brenda Gantt has inspired millions with her hearty Southern recipes and this cabbage casserole is a standout. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with comforting flavor that will please any crowd.

Whether you’re making it for a Sunday supper, potluck, or holiday dinner, this dish brings warmth and tradition to the table.

Ready to bring Southern hospitality into your kitchen? Let’s start with the simple ingredients that make this cabbage casserole a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional for added creaminess)
• 1/2 stick butter (for sautéing)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers or buttery crackers, crushed (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for mixing with cracker topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

• Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
• In a large skillet, melt ½ stick of butter over medium heat.
• Add the chopped cabbage and diced onion.
• Sauté until the cabbage softens and reduces in size (about 8–10 minutes).
• Season with a little salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to taste.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together the following:

• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup mayonnaise (optional for extra richness)

Stir until everything is fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Cabbage and Creamy Mixture

• Add the sautéed cabbage and onion to the bowl with the creamy mixture.
• Stir until well coated and evenly mixed.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

• Pour the mixture into your greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
• Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Add the Topping

• In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with 2 tablespoons melted butter.
• Sprinkle the buttery crackers evenly over the top of the casserole.
• Add a little extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 7: Bake

• Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

• Let the casserole rest for about 5–10 minutes after baking.
• Serve warm and enjoy that classic Brenda Gantt Southern comfort flavor!

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings

• Serves: 6 to 8 people
• Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a Southern-style holiday side dish.

Pro Tips for the Best Gantt Cabbage Casserole

1. Use Fresh Cabbage

Fresh, firm cabbage gives the casserole a better texture than pre-shredded or bagged mixes. Chop it just before cooking for optimal crispness.

2. Don’t Overcook the Cabbage

When sautéing, aim for slightly tender cabbage — it’ll finish cooking in the oven. Overcooked cabbage can turn mushy.

3. Add a Protein Boost

For a heartier meal, stir in cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or browned sausage before baking.

4. Use Sharp Cheddar

Sharp cheddar cheese brings out a bold, savory flavor that balances the creamy base. Mild cheddar works too, but sharp adds depth.

5. Go for Golden Topping

If your cracker topping isn’t browning, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

6. Make Ahead Friendly

Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.

7. Customize the Crunch

Not a fan of crackers? Try French fried onions, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed cornflakes for a different crunchy topping.

Storage & Variation Suggestions

How to Store

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container or tightly cover the casserole dish with foil. It will keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Freezer: This casserole freezes well! Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat

• Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: For smaller portions, reheat in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Variations to Try

1. Spicy Kick

Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy Southern twist.

2. Vegetarian Version

Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken, and skip any meat add-ins.

3. Bacon Lover’s Version

Mix in crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, salty pop of flavor or sprinkle it on top before baking.

5. Cheese Swap

Experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

Nutritional Benefits of Cabbage Casserole

While this Southern classic is creamy and comforting, it also packs some surprising health benefits especially thanks to its star ingredient: cabbage.

1. Rich in Vitamins & Antioxidants

Cabbage is loaded with Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and powerful antioxidants that support immune function and bone health.

2. Supports Digestive Health

As a cruciferous vegetable, cabbage contains fiber and glucosinolates, which promote healthy digestion and may support gut health.

3. Heart-Friendly Ingredients

When prepared with low-fat dairy or reduced-fat mayo, this casserole can be a wholesome option. Using whole ingredients over processed ones helps reduce sodium and saturated fat.

4. Protein & Calcium Boost

The cheese and sour cream add protein and calcium, which are essential for muscle and bone strength.

Tip for a Lighter Version

Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese to make this casserole lighter without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs on Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe

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

Green cabbage is preferred for its tender texture and mild flavor, but red cabbage can work in a pinch. Just note that it may slightly alter the color and taste.

2. What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a vegetarian-friendly or different flavor variation.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when you’re ready to serve.

4. Can I freeze cabbage casserole?

Absolutely. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

5. What’s the best topping alternative to Ritz crackers?

Try panko breadcrumbs, French fried onions, crushed cornflakes, or even stuffing mix for a different crunch.

6. How do I keep the casserole from getting watery?

Make sure to sauté the cabbage thoroughly to cook off excess moisture before mixing it into the creamy filling.

7. Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes! Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken to make it a complete one-dish meal.