Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole

Are you craving some comfort food that’s packed with flavor and nutrition? Look no further than Brenda Gantt’s cabbage casserole! This dish is a Southern classic that’s been passed down through generations, and for good reason. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and tastes amazing.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Brenda Gantt cabbage casserole, including its history, ingredients, nutritional benefits, and cooking tips. Let’s get started!

Who is Brenda Gantt?

Before we dive into the delicious details of her famous cabbage casserole, let’s learn a little more about the woman behind the dish. Brenda Gantt is a renowned Southern cook and author who has been sharing her recipes with the world for over 30 years. Her cooking style is traditional, simple, and focused on fresh, local ingredients.

History of Cabbage Casserole

Cabbage has been a staple food in many cultures for centuries, and the casserole dish is a beloved Southern classic. Brenda Gantt’s cabbage casserole is a combination of these two timeless traditions. It’s a dish that’s been passed down through her family for generations, and now she’s sharing it with the world.

Ingredients

The ingredients for Brenda Gantt cabbage casserole are simple and easy to find. You’ll need:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 cup of uncooked rice
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of paprika

Nutritional Benefits

Brenda Gantt cabbage casserole is a healthy and nutritious meal that’s packed with vitamins and minerals. Cabbage is high in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K, while ground beef provides protein and essential amino acids. The addition of tomatoes, onion, and spices adds even more flavor and nutrition to this delicious dish.

Cooking Tips

To make Brenda Gantt cabbage casserole, start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating up, prepare your ingredients by chopping the cabbage, onion, and tomatoes. Cook the ground beef in a frying pan until browned and discard any surplus fat. In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, water, and spices.

Next, layer the ingredients in a large casserole dish in the following order: cabbage, ground beef, onion, tomatoes, rice, and soup mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of soup mixture on top.Wrap the container with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 75 minutes.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Now that you know the ingredients and cooking tips, here’s a step-by-step recipe to follow:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
3. Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and stir it with a spoon while it cooks to achieve a brown color.
4. Drain off any excess fat from the beef and set it aside.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, water, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
6. Layer the ingredients in a large casserole dish in the following order: cabbage, ground beef, onion, tomatoes, rice, and soup mixture.
7. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of soup mixture on top.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked through.
9. Allow the casserole to rest for a couple of minutes prior to serving.

Variations and Modifications

While Brenda Gantt’s cabbage casserole recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to modify it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Opt for ground chicken or turkey instead of beef to create a more delicate dish.
• Add chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra veggies.
• Choose brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to prepare a more nutritious alternative.
• Use a different cream soup, such as cream of chicken or cream of celery.
• Add shredded cheese to the top of the casserole during the last 15 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.

Serving Suggestions

The cabbage casserole recipe from Brenda Gantt is a satisfying meal that can be presented as either an entrée or a side dish. Consider these suggestions for presenting the dish:

• Serve with a side of cornbread or biscuits for a classic Southern meal.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions.
• Serve with a salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover cabbage casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or bake in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Brenda Gantt cabbage casserole ahead of time?

It is possible to make the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it, and then cook it whenever convenient.

2. Can I freeze Brenda Gantt cabbage casserole?

It is viable to freeze the casserole for a maximum of three months.

Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. Can I use a different type of meat in Brenda Gantt cabbage casserole?

Absolutely! It is possible to substitute ground beef with ground pork, turkey, or chicken.

4. Can I use a different type of rice in Brenda Gantt cabbage casserole?

Yes! Brown rice or quinoa can be used as a replacement for white rice.

5. Is Brenda Gantt cabbage casserole healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with nutrition from the cabbage, ground beef, and other ingredients. However, it’s also high in sodium and fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Brenda Gantt cabbage casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a cold day or a crowd-pleaser for your next potluck, this casserole won’t disappoint. Plus, with