Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

If you’re looking for a fun and healthy twist on dinner, you have to try these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers! They’re not just low-carb; they’re also packed with flavor and are surprisingly easy to make. I love serving these during family gatherings or on busy weeknights when I want something quick yet satisfying. The best part? They’re a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone even noticing!

These burgers are a hit with everyone—kids and adults alike! They offer all the deliciousness of a traditional burger but with a fresh, crunchy cabbage twist. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy alternative: These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers keep the carb count low while delivering on taste.
• Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of any skill level.
• Family-friendly: Kids will love the fun presentation and delicious flavors, making it easier to get them to eat their veggies!
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the meat mixture earlier in the day, so dinner comes together even faster when you’re ready to eat.
• Customizable flavors: Feel free to spice things up by adding your favorite herbs and spices!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted at how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Let’s gather everything we need for our Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers:

For the Burger Base

• 1 small head of cabbage (cut into thick slices)
• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

For Topping

• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Try mixing in chopped bell peppers or spinach into the meat mixture for extra nutrients.
• Experiment with cheese: Go dairy-free by using nutritional yeast or try different types of cheese like feta or gouda for unique flavors.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!

How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your burgers cook evenly from the moment they go in. While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

Next, slice your cabbage into thick rounds about ½-inch thick. This creates sturdy bases for your burgers. Brush both sides with olive oil before placing them on the baking sheet. Not only does this add flavor, but it helps achieve that lovely golden-brown color as they bake.

Step 3: Make the Burger Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef (or turkey), chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and egg if you’re using it. Mix everything well until it’s fully combined. This step is crucial because it allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

Now comes the fun part! Take a handful of your meat mixture and press it onto each cabbage slice. Shape them into patties; don’t worry about perfection here—just aim for even coverage so they cook nicely.

Step 5: Bake and Broil

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Once they’re cooked through, remove them from the oven and sprinkle cheese generously on top of each burger. Then broil for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden—this adds an irresistible finishing touch!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, garnish with fresh parsley if you like and serve alongside sour cream, mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every delicious bite of these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers with family and friends!

I hope you have as much fun making these as I do! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not just delicious; they can be made even better with a few handy tips!

• Choose the right cabbage: Opt for a small, tightly packed head of cabbage. This ensures that your slices hold together well and provide a sturdy base for your burgers.

• Don’t skip the egg: If you’re looking for an extra binding agent, adding an egg to your meat mixture can help keep the patties intact during baking. It provides moisture and richness.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the flavors by adding your favorite herbs or spices, like oregano or cayenne pepper. This allows you to create a burger that suits your taste preferences.

• Watch the broiling time: Keep a close eye on the cheese while broiling to prevent it from burning. It should be bubbly and slightly golden, which adds an appealing texture.

• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They reheat well and make a great quick meal!

How to Serve Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Serving these delightful burgers is all about presentation and pairing with complementary flavors that enhance their taste.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds color and freshness, brightening up the dish.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream offers a creamy contrast that balances the savory flavors of the burgers.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fries add a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with cabbage burgers.

• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with shredded carrots and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch, enhancing the overall meal experience.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus add vibrant colors and nutrients to your plate, making it visually appealing and healthy.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette makes for a nutritious side that complements the hearty burgers beautifully.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’ll have a well-rounded meal that’s not only delicious but also visually enticing! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not just delicious; they also make for a fantastic meal prep option! You can easily prepare them ahead of time, ensuring you have a healthy meal ready when you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cabbage burgers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• After cooking and cooling, arrange the burgers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

Have questions about making Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use different types of meat for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat as alternatives. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if necessary.

How do I make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers gluten-free?

To keep your burgers gluten-free, simply ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you choose is gluten-free, or substitute it with coconut aminos for a similar flavor.

Can I add more vegetables to my Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?

Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, grated carrots, or even spinach are great additions to the meat mixture. Just keep the overall moisture balance in mind.

What dipping sauces pair well with Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?

These burgers are delicious with a variety of sauces! Try serving them with sour cream, mustard, or even a homemade yogurt-based sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers as I am! They are not only a healthier alternative to traditional burgers but also easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy making this recipe and savoring every bite! Don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how yours turned out!