Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional burgers, making them perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal. These burgers offer a unique twist on classic flavors, showcasing how versatile cabbage can be. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal for the family, these burgers will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy all the burger goodness without the extra carbs that come from bread.
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of beef, spices, and melted cheese makes every bite satisfying and full of flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them with your favorite sauces or as part of a salad for added variety.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it great for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Brush (for olive oil)
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides even heating for your burgers, ensuring they cook perfectly.
- Mixing bowl: Allows you to easily combine ingredients without spills.
- Knife: Ideal for slicing cabbage and chopping onions and garlic efficiently.

Ingredients
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional burgers, offering a flavorful and healthy meal option.
For the Cabbage Base:
- 1 small head of cabbage (cut into thick slices)
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)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage
Slice the cabbage into thick rounds about ½-inch thick. Brush both sides with olive oil and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Make the Burger Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and egg if using. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
Take a handful of the meat mixture and press it onto each cabbage slice. Shape it into a patty that covers most of the cabbage slice.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Remove it from the oven when done.
Step 6: Melt Cheese on Top
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each burger patty. Return to the oven and broil for an additional 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley or serve with sour cream, mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce! Enjoy your delicious Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers!
How to Serve Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not only tasty but also versatile. They can be served in various ways to suit your taste and occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and a burst of flavor.
- Chives: Finely chopped chives provide a mild onion flavor that complements the burgers beautifully.
Dipping Sauces
- Sour Cream: Creamy and tangy, sour cream enhances the burger’s taste while adding richness.
- Mustard: A classic choice, mustard adds a zesty kick that pairs well with the savory beef.
- Avocado Sauce: Blend ripe avocados with lime juice for a creamy alternative that is both healthy and flavorful.
With Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: Serve with a simple salad of mixed greens tossed in olive oil and vinegar for a light side.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw can add texture and contrast to the warm burgers.
How to Perfect Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Creating the perfect Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to enhance your cooking experience.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground beef or turkey will yield juicier burgers. Avoid using meats that have been frozen for too long.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to personalize the spice levels by adding chili powder or cayenne pepper if you enjoy some heat.
- Ensure Proper Thickness: Cut cabbage slices evenly, about ½-inch thick, so they bake uniformly and hold the burger mixture well.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Leave space between each cabbage burger on the baking sheet for even cooking and browning.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like pepper jack or feta for unique flavors that complement the beef.
Best Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Pairing sides with your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers can enhance the meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent side dish ideas.
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast until tender for a nutritious side.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to savory burgers; season them with paprika for added flavor.
- Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed salad is light yet filling; mix quinoa with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that’s easy to prepare; sauté with garlic for extra flavor.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus drizzled with balsamic vinegar makes a deliciously crisp accompaniment.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and herbs provide a fresh, low-carb option that pairs nicely with burgers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers, avoiding common mistakes can enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the meat mixture well can lead to bland burgers. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before forming patties.
- Using thin cabbage slices: Thin slices may not hold up during baking. Make sure to cut the cabbage into thick rounds (about ½-inch) for sturdy burgers.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many burgers on the sheet can cause them to steam instead of bake. Ensure there’s ample space between each cabbage slice for even cooking.
- Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat can result in unevenly cooked burgers. Always preheat your oven to ensure proper cooking temperatures.
- Ignoring broiling time: Not keeping an eye on the cheese while broiling can lead to burnt toppings. Broil just until golden and bubbly for the best results.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
- Place cooled burgers in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
- After they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place burgers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use medium power and reheat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently so they don’t dry out.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute ground turkey in Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. It will still provide great flavor and a healthy option.
How do I make these burgers vegetarian?
To create vegetarian Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers, replace meat with a mixture of beans, lentils, or mushrooms combined with breadcrumbs and spices for texture.
What toppings go well with Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?
Consider topping these burgers with fresh herbs, avocado slices, or your favorite sauces like mustard or yogurt-based dips for added flavor.
Can I prepare these burgers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the burger mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake.
Final Thoughts
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not just a tasty alternative; they offer versatility in customization. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or toppings based on your preferences. Enjoy this healthy meal that satisfies both cravings and dietary needs!
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 burgers 1x
Description
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are a delicious and innovative way to enjoy burgers without the carbs from traditional buns. These savory patties feature tender cabbage slices topped with flavorful ground beef or turkey mixed with aromatic spices, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have these low-carb delights ready in no time. Versatile and satisfying, you can serve them with your favorite sauces, alongside fresh salads, or as a hearty main course that everyone will love. Discover how easy it is to indulge in a healthy yet flavorful meal!
Ingredients
- 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)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice cabbage into thick rounds, brush with olive oil, and place on the baking sheet.
- In a bowl, mix ground meat, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and egg if using until combined.
- Shape meat mixture onto cabbage slices to form patties.
- Bake for 25 minutes; then sprinkle cheese on top and broil for an additional 3-5 minutes until melted.
- Serve hot with your choice of garnishes or dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg