Cabbage Burgers are an innovative twist on the classic burger, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal without the traditional bread bun. This oven-baked cabbage burger recipe combines the earthy sweetness of cabbage steaks with juicy, seasoned beef patties and melty cheese, resulting in a wholesome, low-carb dish that makes an ideal lunch or light dinner. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, these cabbage burgers offer a fun way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals while still keeping that comforting burger experience intact.
Whether you are following a low-carb, gluten-free, or keto-inspired diet, or simply trying to add more vegetables to your lunch, this recipe delivers bold flavors, satisfying textures, and visual appeal. Each cabbage steak serves as a sturdy base for the savory beef patties, while a touch of Dijon mustard, garlic, fresh herbs, and shredded cheese enhances the overall taste. This dish is easy to assemble, customizable, and perfect for weekday meal prep or casual weekend lunches.
Ingredients for Cabbage Burgers
To make these delicious cabbage burgers, you will need the following ingredients:
For the cabbage base:
- 1–2 heads of green cabbage, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick steaks
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil, for brushing
- A pinch of salt and black pepper
For the beef patties:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley (15 g)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For assembling:
- ¼ cup tomato sauce or ketchup
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese or cheese of choice
Optional garnishes include extra parsley, thinly sliced tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled onions. You can also make this cabbage burgers recipe vegan by substituting the beef patties with plant-based patties and using vegan cheese.
How to Make Cabbage Burgers
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Steaks
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the cabbage into thick, 1-inch steaks. Brush each cabbage slice lightly with avocado oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. This initial pre-bake softens the cabbage just enough to hold the patty while retaining a slight crunch. Bake the cabbage steaks for about 10 minutes, until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Patties
While the cabbage is baking, mix the ground beef with Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty slightly smaller than your cabbage steaks. Season the patties lightly if desired.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Burgers
Remove the pre-baked cabbage steaks from the oven. Spoon a thin layer of tomato sauce or ketchup on each cabbage slice. Place a beef patty on top of each cabbage steak, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres. This layering ensures every bite has a balanced combination of cabbage, beef, and sauce.
Step 4: Bake Until Cooked Through
Return the tray to the oven and bake the cabbage burgers for 10–12 minutes, or until the beef patties are fully cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as you want the patties juicy and tender.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
In the final 2–3 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over each patty. Bake just long enough for the cheese to melt and bubble slightly, adding a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the slightly crisp cabbage.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the cabbage burgers from the oven and allow them to rest for a minute or two. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm as a satisfying low-carb lunch or as a main dish for dinner.
Tips for the Perfect Cabbage Burgers
- Choose the right cabbage: A firm, tightly packed head ensures the steaks hold their shape during cooking.
- Pre-bake the cabbage: Softening the cabbage before topping allows for even cooking and prevents the steaks from being too tough.
- Adjust the heat: Red pepper flakes can be omitted or increased depending on your spice preference.
- Cheese options: Try mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Make it vegetarian or vegan: Use a plant-based patty and vegan cheese for a meatless version of this cabbage burgers recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage burgers are versatile and can be paired with simple sides for a complete meal. Consider serving them with:
- Roasted sweet potatoes or baked potatoes
- A creamy cucumber salad
- Steamed vegetables or air-fried zucchini
- A scoop of spinach rice or quinoa
They also make a fun, low-carb alternative for parties or casual family lunches.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store cabbage burgers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual cabbage and patty portions for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, or microwave for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
Cabbage Burgers are a flavorful, low-carb, and nutritious alternative to traditional burgers. Perfect for a quick lunch, weeknight dinner, or meal prep, this recipe combines wholesome vegetables, juicy beef, and melty cheese into a satisfying and delicious dish. With customizable toppings, cheese options, and a simple preparation method, these cabbage burgers are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
