Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both hearty and guilt-free, you’ve come to the right place! Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not only delicious but also a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional burgers. I love making these on busy weeknights when the family is craving something filling, but I want to keep it healthy. They’re perfect for gatherings too—everyone gets to enjoy a tasty burger without the heavy carbs!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines simple ingredients with big flavors. You’ll be surprised at how satisfying these cabbage burgers can be, and they can easily become a go-to meal in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these burgers in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the unique twist on a classic favorite!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the cabbage and burger mixture earlier in the day for an even quicker dinner.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices, cheese, and juicy meat makes each bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers, you’ll need items that are not only nutritious but also readily available. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Cabbage Base

• 1 small head of cabbage (cut into thick slices)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Burger Mixture

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)

Variations

One of the best things about Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with ingredients or toppings based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some heat: Mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Go vegetarian: Replace meat with cooked quinoa or lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or pepper jack for unique flavors.

How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your burgers cook evenly and get that perfect golden finish. While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

Slice your cabbage into thick rounds—about ½-inch thick works beautifully. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil. This not only adds flavor but helps prevent sticking during baking. Place them on your lined baking sheet so they’re ready for those savory patties.

Step 3: Make the Burger Mixture

In a bowl, combine your ground beef (or turkey), finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and egg if you’re using it. Mixing these ingredients well is key; it allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together. Plus, if you’re using an egg as a binder, it helps keep everything intact during cooking.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

Now comes the fun part! Take a handful of your meat mixture and press it onto each cabbage slice to form patties. Don’t worry about making them perfect—just mold them gently until they hold together nicely.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. When time’s up, pull them out and sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each burger. Return them to the oven and broil for an additional 3-5 minutes until that cheese is melted and slightly golden—your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Once they’re done cooking, garnishing with fresh parsley adds a lovely touch! Serve your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers with sour cream, mustard, or any dipping sauce that tickles your fancy. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Creating the perfect Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers can be simple and enjoyable with a few handy tips.

• Choose the Right Cabbage: Opt for a small, firm head of cabbage; it will hold its shape better during baking and provide a sturdier base for your burgers.
• Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Season the meat mixture generously to enhance the flavor. A well-seasoned patty makes all the difference in taste!
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add chopped herbs or spices to your meat mixture. Fresh parsley, cilantro, or even some chili flakes can add a delightful twist.
• Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze!
• Broil for Extra Crispiness: Broiling at the end gives your cheese a beautiful golden color and adds an extra layer of texture to your burgers.

How to Serve Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Serving these delightful cabbage burgers is as much about presentation as it is about flavor! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Sliced Avocado: Add creamy avocado slices for richness that complements the savory burger perfectly.
• Dollop of Sour Cream: A spoonful of sour cream adds a tangy touch that balances out the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles make for a refreshing, low-carb side that pairs well with the burgers.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with shredded carrots and cabbage provides a nice contrast in texture and is super easy to whip up.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crisp offer a touch of sweetness that rounds out the meal deliciously.
• Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus spears bring a burst of flavor and nutrients, making them an excellent companion to your cabbage burgers.

With these serving tips and side dish suggestions, you’ll have a wonderful meal that’s sure to impress everyone around the table! Enjoy your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them for quick, healthy meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the burgers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can be stored for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled burgers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
• You can also microwave them on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Ensure they are heated through before serving.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner alternative. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned to maintain flavor.

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

You can substitute Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free version or use coconut aminos. Just check any other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free!

What toppings go well with Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?

You can add fresh herbs like parsley, sliced avocado, or your favorite sauces like mustard and sour cream for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers as much as I do! They’re not only a delightful alternative to traditional burgers but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick dinner option, these burgers are sure to please. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!