If you’re tired of the same old burgers and want to try something fresh, nutritious, and downright delicious, these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers will become your new go-to meal. Combining the hearty goodness of seasoned ground meat with the tender, slightly sweet flavor of baked cabbage slices, this dish offers an exciting twist that’s both comforting and wholesome. It’s a fantastic way to sneak some extra veggies onto your plate while satisfying your burger cravings with less fuss and a lot of flavor.

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but pack a punch in building layers of flavor and texture. Each one plays a key role—from the juicy, seasoned meat to the crisp-tender cabbage base, and lastly, the melty cheese topping that brings it all together.

1 small head of cabbage: Thick slices act as a wholesome, low-carb alternative to traditional buns.
1 ½ lbs ground beef (or turkey): The star protein ingredient, juicy and rich.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds an aromatic sweetness and depth to the burger mix.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch of flavor that elevates every bite.
1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors perfectly.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds just the right hint of heat and earthiness.
1 tsp smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth that pairs wonderfully with the beef.
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Provides an umami boost that deepens the meat’s flavor.
½ cup shredded cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese for a gooey, melty finish.
2 tbsp olive oil: Used to brush the cabbage slices for browning and flavor.
1 egg (optional): Helps bind the burger mixture for better hold and texture.

How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for an easy cleanup. This ensures your cabbage burgers won’t stick and will roast to perfection with a lovely caramelized edge.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage Slices

Carefully slice your cabbage into thick rounds about half an inch thick. Brush both sides with olive oil; this step is crucial because it helps the cabbage soften while getting those golden, slightly crispy edges in the oven. Arrange them on the baking sheet, ready to hold the juicy meat topping.

Step 3: Mix the Burger Meat

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey) with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and the optional egg if you want added binding power. Mixing all these ingredients well brings together a flavorful base that will stick nicely to each cabbage slice.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

Take a generous handful of the meat mixture and firmly press it onto each cabbage slice, shaping it into a patty that covers the surface evenly. This assembly method ensures every bite includes a perfect balance of meat and vegetable.

Step 5: Bake and Cheese

Bake your cabbage burgers for about 25 minutes until the meat is mostly cooked through and the cabbage has softened pleasantly. Then, take them out and sprinkle a hearty layer of shredded cheese on top of each patty for that irresistible gooey finish.

Step 6: Broil for the Final Touch

Pop the baking sheet under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely until the cheese melts, bubbles, and achieves a gorgeous golden-brown color. This step gives your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers a restaurant-quality finish that’s both visually appealing and tasty.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or enjoy with your preferred condiments like sour cream or mustard. These burgers are fantastic served straight from the pan, packed full of flavor and vibrant textures.

How to Serve Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives adds brightness and a pop of color, perfectly complementing the rich meat and mild cabbage. For an extra tangy twist, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of mustard works beautifully as well.

Side Dishes

Keep things fresh with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal. If you want to stay cozy, creamy mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf are comforting sides that pair well with the savory nature of these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking multiple cabbage burgers for a hearty layered “burger stack,” or serve them open-faced with a bright tomato salsa on top. You could also turn them into sliders by cutting slices smaller and unique dipping sauces on the side, creating a fun appetizer or party snack option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavors well, making for easy next-day meals or snacks that still taste fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze the cabbage burgers individually by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or placing them in freezer bags. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for meal prep or busy days when a quick, wholesome dinner is needed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the burgers on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually 15-20 minutes. This method helps retain the cabbage’s texture and keeps the cheese delightfully melty.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in this recipe, offering a leaner option that stays juicy when mixed well with the seasonings and cooked properly on the cabbage slices.

Do I need to peel the cabbage before slicing?

No need to peel it. Just remove any damaged outer leaves and slice the cabbage into thick rounds as the recipe directs. The outer layers add nice texture and color after roasting.

Is the egg necessary in the burger mixture?

The egg is optional but helps bind the meat to the cabbage firmly, especially if using leaner meat like turkey. If you prefer, you can omit it and rely on careful pressing when assembling.

Can I make these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers spicy?

Definitely! Add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture, or top the finished burgers with spicy mustard or a hot sauce drizzle for an extra kick.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Choose a cheese that melts well like cheddar or mozzarella. You can also combine both or use a smoky cheese for added depth. It’s all about your flavor preference!

Final Thoughts

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are a fantastic, fun way to shake up your weeknight dinner routine while sneaking in some veggies with every delicious bite. They’re comforting, wholesome, and easy to customize—trust me, once you try them, this recipe will become a cherished favorite. So grab your cabbage, fire up the oven, and treat yourself to a burger experience that’s both lighter and bursting with flavor!