As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sautéing garlic filled the air, transporting me back to my grandmother’s home where comfort food reigned supreme. Today, I’m excited to share a twist on traditional burgers with these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers. Swapping out classic buns for tender cabbage slices not only creates a delightful crunch but also turns this beloved meal into a guilt-free treat. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up these quick, low-carb delights that are perfect for those looking to enjoy a hearty burger without the heaviness of bread. So, are you ready to take your taste buds on a healthy adventure? Let’s dive in! Why try these cabbage burgers? Unique Flavor Fusion: These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers blend the savory depth of traditional burgers with the refreshing crunch of cabbage, creating a satisfying bite. Healthier Alternative: Perfect for low-carb and gluten-free diets, these burgers let you indulge without compromising your health goals. Time-Saving Delight: Whipping these up takes just 45 minutes, making it a quick dinner choice for busy weeknights. Customizable Goodness: Mix and match flavors with various meats, spices, or even veggie alternatives for a personalized touch. Check out our Grilled Salmon Burgers for more healthy twists! Crowd-Pleaser: These burgers are sure to impress at any gathering, offering a fun and unique take on a classic favorite that everyone can enjoy. Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Ingredients For the Cabbage Buns • Cabbage (1 large head) – The primary “bun” ingredient; green or savoy cabbage will give you a tender texture. For the Filling • Ground Meat (1 lb) – Acts as the protein core of the burger; beef, turkey, or chicken work wonderfully, but for a vegetarian option, black beans or lentils are great substitutes. • Egg (1 large) – Serves as a binder to keep the burger patties intact. • Breadcrumbs (1 cup) – Provides structure; use regular or gluten-free varieties, or even oats for a healthier twist. • Onion (1 small, finely chopped) – Adds moisture and enhances flavor in every bite. • Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enriches the dish with its fragrant and savory notes. • Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning your mixture to perfection. • Spices (optional) – Consider paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor dimension. • Cheese (optional) – Add shredded cheese for an indulgent richness that enhances the burger’s overall taste. Enjoy crafting these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers as you dive into a flavorful and healthy adventure! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Start by removing the outer leaves of the cabbage, then slice the large head into 1-inch thick pieces to create your cabbage “buns.” Aim for about 8 slices, ensuring they are sturdy enough to hold the filling. As you do this, you’ll enjoy the fresh scent of cabbage filling your kitchen. Step 2: Preheat the Oven Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the filling. This temperature is essential for even cooking, allowing the cabbage to soften slightly and the burgers to develop a lovely golden-brown color as they bake. Step 3: Mix the Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of your choice of ground meat with 1 large egg, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and any desired spices. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough patties, as you’ll be forming the filling into delicious Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers. Step 4: Form the Patties Grab a handful of the mixture and shape it into patties about the size of your cabbage slices, roughly ¼ cup each. Try to make them slightly smaller than the cabbage to allow for shrinkage while baking. Lay them aside on a clean plate, ready for assembly. Step 5: Assemble the Burgers On a lined baking sheet, lay down a cabbage slice as your base. Place one of your freshly formed meat patties on top, and then cap it with another cabbage slice. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used, creating a delightful stack of Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers. Step 6: Bake Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on your burgers; they are done when the meat is fully cooked and the cabbage has softened but still retains some crunch. If adding cheese, sprinkle it over the burgers during the last 5 minutes for a deliciously melted topping. Step 7: Serve Once baked to perfection, remove the Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers from the oven and let them cool briefly. This pause allows flavors to meld while making them easier to handle. Serve them warm with your favorite toppings, and enjoy a hearty yet healthy meal that’s sure to satisfy! What to Serve with Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Elevate your meal by pairing these delightful cabbage burgers with sides that enhance their crunchy texture and savory flavors. Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of crispy sweet potato fries complements the savory cabbage and meat, creating a balance of flavors. Fresh Garden Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing contrast while keeping your meal light and healthy. Toss in a lemon vinaigrette for an added zing. Grilled Veggies: Smoky grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers not only add color but also deepen the meal’s flavor profile, making every bite a delight. Avocado Ranch Dip: A creamy dip enhances the crunchy cabbage burgers, bringing in richness that pairs beautifully with the freshness of cabbage. You can even spread it inside the burger for an added layer of flavor. Pickled Onions: Tangy pickled onions provide a delightful sharpness, cutting through the richness of the burger and adding a pop of color and flavor. Herbed Quinoa: A side of fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh herbs creates a nutty foundation that nicely complements the cabbage burgers, providing additional texture and nutrition. Expert Tips for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers • Choose the Right Cabbage: Opt for green or savoy cabbage; they provide a tender, flavorful base that enhances your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers. • Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when combining the filling ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough patties; we want tender, juicy burgers. • Mind the Size: Shape your patties smaller than the cabbage slices. This ensures they cook evenly and fit perfectly between the “buns.” • Flavor Boosters: For added depth, consider marinating the meat in your favorite spices or sauces for a few hours before mixing. • Cheese Timing: Add cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking if desired. This way, it melts beautifully without overcooking. • Proper Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re great for a quick meal the next day! Storage Tips for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Fridge: Store leftover Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh while preserving their flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the burgers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Reheating: To reheat, place the burgers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain their crispiness. Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate, giving your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers a head start for quick assembly at mealtime. Make Ahead Options These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the filling (ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh and flavorful. The cabbage “buns” can also be sliced ahead of time and kept wrapped in plastic or placed in a container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy these delicious burgers, just form the patties, assemble them with the cabbage, and bake them according to the recipe instructions. This way, you’ll have delightful, nutritious burgers ready to serve with minimal effort! Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Variations Feel free to explore delightful twists on your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers that cater to your taste buds! Vegetarian: Substitute ground meat with black beans or lentils to create a hearty, plant-based version. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats in place of regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-friendly burger that still packs a punch. Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of taco seasoning or chipotle powder to the meat mixture for an exciting flavor explosion. The smoky heat will perfectly complement the cabbage. Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses, like smoked gouda or pepper jack, to enhance the richness. Each will melt into the burgers beautifully, making them even more indulgent! Savory Sweetness: Try shredded carrots or finely chopped bell peppers in the filling for a hint of sweetness and added nutrition. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies! Herbaceous Twist: Blend in fresh herbs like chopped basil or cilantro for a burst of freshness. These greens will elevate the flavor and add vibrancy to your dish. Asian Flair: Incorporate ginger and soy sauce into the meat mixture for an Asian-inspired twist. Pair these with a sesame oil drizzle to complete the flavor profile. Hearty Add-Ins: Mix in chopped mushrooms or zucchini for extra moisture and a delectable texture. Such veggies marry perfectly with the savory elements of the burger. To round out your meal or bring even more deliciousness to your table, consider serving your fabulous burgers alongside a warm batch of Cabbage Soup Comforting or indulge in tantalizing Salmon Burgers Herb for additional variations that everyone will adore! Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Recipe FAQs What type of cabbage should I use for the burgers? I recommend using either green or savoy cabbage for the best results! Both types have a tender texture that holds up nicely as a bun while adding a wonderful crunch to your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers. How should I store leftover cabbage burgers? You can store leftover Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This ensures they stay fresh and flavorful, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week! Can I freeze these burgers? Absolutely! To freeze your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers, first let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. What if my cabbage slices are falling apart? If your cabbage slices are falling apart, it may be due to cutting them too thin or using a stronger variety. Ensure your slices are about 1-inch thick to provide enough support. If needed, you can also use toothpicks to keep the cabbage slices together as they bake, ensuring everything holds its shape! Can I make these cabbage burgers vegetarian? Very! For a vegetarian version of Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers, simply substitute the ground meat with black beans, lentils, or any preferred meat alternative. Just ensure that any additional binders or fillers, like breadcrumbs, are also suitable for your dietary preferences. How long do I bake the burgers for? Bake your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when the meat is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender yet still has a slight crunch. If using cheese, add it during the last 5 minutes for a delicious topping! Delicious Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers for a Healthy Feast Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers offer a healthy, low-carb twist on traditional burgers, using cabbage instead of buns for a delightful crunch. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 burgersCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cabbage Buns1 large head Cabbage green or savoy cabbage for a tender textureFor the Filling1 lb Ground Meat beef, turkey, or chicken; for vegetarian option use black beans or lentils1 large Egg as a binder1 cup Breadcrumbs regular or gluten-free, or oats for a healthier option1 small Onion finely chopped2 cloves Garlic mincedSalt and Pepper to tasteSpices optional; consider paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoningCheese optional; add shredded cheese for richness Equipment ovenbaking sheetmixing bowl Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Oven-Baked Cabbage BurgersRemove the outer leaves of the cabbage and slice into 1-inch thick pieces to create about 8 cabbage 'buns'.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, and spices. Season with salt and pepper to taste; mix gently until just combined.Form patties about the size of cabbage slices, slightly smaller to account for shrinkage while baking.On a lined baking sheet, place a cabbage slice, add a meat patty on top, and cap with another cabbage slice. Repeat until all ingredients are used.Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until meat is fully cooked and cabbage is softened, adding cheese during the last 5 minutes if desired.Remove from oven, cool briefly, and serve warm with your favorite toppings. Nutrition Serving: 1burgerCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, use green or savoy cabbage for a tender bun. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
