Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
These oven-baked cabbage burgers are a simple, satisfying, low-carb alternative to traditional burgers, featuring beef or turkey patties nestled in tender roasted cabbage steaks.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Base
- 1 small head small head cabbage, cut into thick slices Cut into ½–¾ inch thick slices, leaving the core intact.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for brushing the cabbage
For the Patty Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey (or ground chicken; or use a plant-based ground alternative)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped Sweat it a little if you prefer a milder bite.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt Reduce for a lower sodium version.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds depth; substitute regular paprika if needed.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Use tamari or soy for a different umami note.
- 1 large egg, optional Helps bind patties, useful if using lean turkey or plant-based mixes.
- 1 cup cheese for sprinkling on top Such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a melting blend.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
- Trim the cabbage: cut the head into 1/2–3/4-inch thick slices, yielding 4–6 'steaks'. Trim any loose outer leaves.
- Brush both sides of each cabbage slice with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Arrange them on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and egg (if using). Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the meat mixture into flat patties roughly the same diameter as the cabbage slices. Press them slightly to sit securely on the cabbage.
Cooking
- Place one patty on each cabbage slice. If you have extra meat, make smaller patties.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–25 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
- Sprinkle cheese over each patty in the last 2–3 minutes of baking and return to the oven until melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.