Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, juicy burger but want to sneak in some extra veggies without sacrificing any flavor, these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are going to become your new go-to. Imagine thick, tender slices of cabbage acting as a delightful base for seasoned, perfectly baked ground beef patties, all topped with melty cheese that forms a golden, irresistible crust. This recipe takes the classic burger experience and gives it a fresh, wholesome twist that’s just as satisfying and much more colorful. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight meal or something special to impress friends, these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers deliver a juicy, flavorful bite every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the flavor and texture of these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers. Each component plays a crucial role in building a burger that’s juicy, aromatic, and packed with vibrant color.

• 1 small head of cabbage: Thick slices create a sturdy, slightly sweet base that crisps beautifully in the oven.
• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or ground turkey): The star protein for a rich, savory patty with great juiciness.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds mild sweetness and moisture to the meat mixture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a warm, fragrant kick that elevates the overall taste.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the savory flavors in the meat and cabbage.
• ½ tsp black pepper: Provides a gentle heat that balances the other spices.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and depth without overpowering.
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Delivers umami richness and a slight tangy note.
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or favorite): Creates a luscious, golden topping that binds the burger together.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Keeps the cabbage slices tender and prevents sticking while baking.
• 1 egg (optional): Helps bind the meat mixture for easier shaping and a firmer patty.

How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Cabbage Slices

Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup. Then, take your small head of cabbage and slice it into thick rounds, about half an inch thick. These slices are going to act like the buns or base for your burger patties, so thickness is important to hold all the juicy goodness. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil to help them roast to a tender, slightly caramelized perfection in the oven.

Step 2: Make the Burger Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and the optional egg if you’re using it. The egg helps bind everything together, especially if you want your patties to hold their shape perfectly. Mix everything gently but thoroughly—just until combined—to maintain a juicy texture in your patties.

Step 3: Assemble the Burgers

Now for the fun part! Take a good handful of your meat mixture and firmly press it onto each cabbage slice. Shape the meat tightly into a patty that covers the cabbage but doesn’t spill over too much. These layers of cabbage and beef come together beautifully to create succulent, handheld portions that feel substantial without being heavy.

Step 4: Bake and Broil

Place your assembled cabbage burgers on the prepared baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for 25 minutes until the beef is cooked through and the cabbage has softened just enough. Then, pull the tray out and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over each burger. Switch your oven to broil and return the sheet for 3-5 minutes, watching closely as the cheese melts into a bubbly golden crust that’s downright irresistible.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the hot burgers from the oven and get ready to indulge. These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, though they’re more than happy to be dressed up your way with sauces or fresh herbs. The combination of juicy beef, tender cabbage, and melty cheese is truly something special.

How to Serve Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Garnishes

To add an extra punch of flavor and color, I love topping these burgers with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of chopped green onions. A dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of mustard, or even a spoonful of your favorite tangy barbecue sauce perfectly complements the smoky richness of the meat and cheese.

Side Dishes

These burgers pair wonderfully with simple sides like crispy roasted potatoes, a fresh green salad, or even a tangy coleslaw that echoes the cabbage flavor but with a crunchy, refreshing twist. For a low-carb option, steamed green beans or sautéed mushrooms make excellent companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to get a little fancy? Try stacking these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers with layers of grilled bell peppers or avocado slices for extra creaminess and color. You can even serve them open-faced alongside a vibrant chickpea salad or pair with a hearty grain bowl for a balanced, beautiful plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, no worries—these burgers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

To save some for later, wrap each burger individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps keep the cabbage tender and the cheese melty without drying out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works great if you want a leaner option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as turkey can dry out faster than beef. Adding the optional egg helps keep the patties moist.

Is it necessary to broil the burgers after baking?

Broiling at the end gives that gorgeous melted and slightly golden cheesetop that adds flavor and texture. You can skip it if you prefer, but I highly recommend it for the full experience.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While the original recipe relies on ground meat, you can experiment with plant-based ground alternatives or even lentil patties. Just adjust seasoning and cooking times to fit the substitute.

How thick should I slice the cabbage?

About half an inch thick works best. Thin slices won’t hold the meat well, and thicker slices may take too long to cook through evenly.

What cheese works best on these burgers?

Cheddar and mozzarella are classics because they melt nicely, but feel free to use your favorite shredded cheese. A sharp cheese adds more flavor, while a mild cheese keeps it creamy and subtle.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers that hits all the right notes: juicy, cheesy, flavorful, and with just the right touch of healthy veggie goodness. They’re simple to make, fun to assemble, and a refreshing way to enjoy a burger without the bun. I encourage you to give this recipe a try — I promise it will become a favorite in your recipe rotation, bringing warmth and delicious comfort to your table time and again.

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