Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 45 mins | Servings: 8
This Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe is a comforting Southern-style dish made with tender cabbage, ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and melted cheese.
It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, family-approved, and perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green cabbage, chopped | 6 cups |
| Lean ground beef | 1 pound |
| Cooked white rice | 2 cups |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Paprika | ½ teaspoon |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing spoon
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
- Oven
How to Make Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Boil chopped cabbage for five minutes until slightly tender, then drain well to remove excess moisture before assembling the casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain extra grease, then stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
Add cooked rice into the beef mixture and stir everything together until evenly combined with the flavorful tomato mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Layer cabbage into the baking dish, spread beef mixture evenly, then top generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. Remove foil, bake 10 minutes more, then serve warm.
What is Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe?
This Southern-inspired cabbage casserole combines tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and cheddar cheese into one hearty baked meal.
It is known for simple ingredients, comforting flavors, and an easy preparation that makes it perfect for busy families.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this casserole because it is affordable, filling, easy to prepare, and packed with comforting flavors.
The cheesy topping, tender cabbage, and savory beef create a satisfying meal that works well for family dinners or meal prep.
Pro Tips for Best Result
- Drain cabbage thoroughly before baking.
- Brown beef completely for better flavor.
- Use freshly shredded cheese.
- Let the casserole rest 10 minutes before serving.
- Season each layer lightly.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey replaces beef easily for a lighter meal. Brown rice adds extra fiber, while mozzarella can replace cheddar.
Crushed tomatoes work instead of diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth enhances moisture if the casserole seems slightly dry.
Easy Variations You Can Try
Add cooked bacon for smoky flavor or mushrooms for extra texture. You can include bell peppers, corn, or spinach.
Pepper Jack cheese creates a spicy version, while sausage offers a richer Southern-inspired twist.
If you enjoy comforting baked meals, don’t miss my Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole Recipe, another easy family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the cabbage because it continues softening during baking. Do not skip draining excess grease or cabbage water.
Too much liquid creates a watery casserole instead of a firm, flavorful dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with cornbread, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
Mashed potatoes also pair nicely, making the meal even more comforting for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in airtight containers for 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Microwave individual portions when needed.
- Thaw overnight before baking.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 345 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 610 mg |
Health Benefits
Cabbage provides fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support digestion and immunity.
Lean ground beef offers protein and iron, while tomatoes contribute beneficial nutrients, making this casserole both comforting and nourishing.
What Does It Taste Like?
This casserole tastes rich, savory, cheesy, and slightly sweet from the cabbage.
The seasoned beef, tomatoes, and melted cheddar blend perfectly, creating a warm Southern comfort food with tender textures and satisfying flavors.
Personal Experience
I enjoy making this casserole whenever I need an easy dinner that satisfies everyone. The leftovers taste even better the next day, and it’s a reliable recipe that always receives compliments at family gatherings.
Can You Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole one day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
When you’re ready, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if chilled. It’s a great time-saving option for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Can You Freeze This Casserole?
This Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully after baking or before baking. Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to three months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and delicious homemade flavor.
Best Cheese to Use
Sharp cheddar provides the richest flavor and melts perfectly over the casserole. Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses also work well.
Freshly shredded cheese creates a smoother, creamier topping than pre-shredded varieties every time.
How to Prevent a Watery Casserole
Drain the boiled cabbage thoroughly and remove excess grease from the cooked beef before assembling.
Avoid adding unnecessary liquid, as too much moisture can make the casserole watery instead of firm, flavorful, and perfectly sliceable after baking.
Can I Make It Low Carb?
Yes, simply replace the cooked rice with cauliflower rice or omit it entirely. The casserole still turns out hearty, flavorful, and satisfying while reducing carbohydrates, making it a wonderful choice for those following a lower-carb eating plan.
Is This Recipe Good for Meal Prep?
This Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe is perfect for meal prep because it stores well and reheats beautifully.
Prepare one large batch, divide it into portions, and enjoy quick homemade lunches or dinners throughout the week without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Conclusion
This Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe delivers classic Southern comfort using simple pantry ingredients.
It is easy enough for beginners while offering rich homemade flavor that keeps everyone coming back for another serving.
If you tried this recipe, please rate it, share it with friends, and leave a comment below about how it turned out!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble it one day ahead, refrigerate, then bake before serving for the freshest flavor.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to three months before reheating.
Can I use red cabbage?
Yes, though green cabbage gives a milder flavor and traditional appearance.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar melts beautifully, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack also taste delicious.
How do I keep the casserole from becoming watery?
Drain cooked cabbage and browned beef thoroughly before assembling the casserole.
For another hearty Southern-inspired side dish, check out my Cracker Barrel 3 Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe, made with simple ingredients and plenty of cheesy goodness.
Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil chopped cabbage for five minutes until slightly tender, then drain well to remove excess moisture before assembling the casserole.
- Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain extra grease, then stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings.
- Add cooked rice into the beef mixture and stir everything together until evenly combined with the flavorful tomato mixture.
- Layer cabbage into the baking dish, spread beef mixture evenly, then top generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. Remove foil, bake 10 minutes more, then serve warm.
