There’s something incredibly satisfying about a burger night, but as I reached for the usual frozen patties, I craved something different—something healthier. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers. Imagine juicy, seasoned meat nestled within crispy, golden cabbage “buns.” The moment they hit the oven, the mouthwatering aroma of meat and spices fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
These burgers effortlessly combine the comfort of traditional fare with the benefits of a low-carb, gluten-free twist. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe ticks all the boxes: it’s easy to prepare, customizable with various meats, and above all, incredibly delicious. Why settle for fast food when you can indulge in these guilt-free delights? Let’s dive into the recipe and transform your burger night into a wholesome celebration!
Why are Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers a must-try?
Deliciously Unique: This recipe reinvents the classic burger with crispy cabbage buns, offering a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with juicy meat.
Low-Carb Option: Guilt-free indulgence awaits as these burgers fit seamlessly into your low-carb lifestyle while satisfying your cravings.
Quick and Easy: Ideal for busy weeknights, they come together in just a few steps, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with loved ones.
Customizable Goodness: Use your choice of meat—beef, turkey, or even plant-based options—to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The savory blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone at the table will love.
Consider pairing them with a light side salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal, just like in my Cabbage Sausage Skillet—you won’t be disappointed!
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Ingredients
For the Cabbage Buns
• Cabbage – The star ingredient! A small head of green cabbage will give you sturdy yet tender “buns” perfect for holding all the delicious goodness.
For the Meat Patties
• Ground Beef/Turkey – Your choice of protein; ground turkey is a great low-fat option if you prefer something lighter.
• Onion – Adds essential sweetness and moisture; chop finely for an even distribution throughout the patties.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor beautifully; you can use garlic powder in a pinch, although it won’t have the same texture.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your personal taste.
• Smoked Paprika – This adds a smoky depth to the burgers; regular paprika or cayenne can work as substitutes depending on your heat preference.
• Worcestershire Sauce – For a rich umami flavor; if you’re avoiding gluten, consider soy sauce as a tasty alternative.
• Egg (optional) – Helps bind the mixture; you can either omit this for a lighter bite or use a flax egg for a vegan variation.
For Assembly
• Olive Oil – Brush on cabbage for browning and flavor; avocado oil or melted butter can be a delicious change-up.
• Shredded Cheese (optional) – Sprinkle on top for added richness; feel free to use any cheese that melts beautifully!
These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not only unique and satisfying but also allow for endless customizations to cater to your taste buds. Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
- Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures perfect cooking of both the meat patties and the cabbage, delivering that irresistible golden color. - Slice the Cabbage:
Carefully cut the cabbage into ½ inch thick rounds to create your “buns.” Brush both sides with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet, ensuring they fit comfortably. - Mix the Meat Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and egg (if using). Mix until well combined; the texture should be cohesive and flavorful. - Form the Patties:
Take portions of the meat mixture and form them into patties, pressing them down gently onto the cabbage rounds. Make sure they are evenly shaped to ensure consistent cooking. - Bake the Burgers:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes. You’re looking for the meat to be fully cooked and the cabbage to turn tender while still holding its shape. - Add Cheese (Optional):
If you want a gooey, cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the burgers and broil for an additional 3-5 minutes until melted and bubbling, creating a gorgeous golden layer. - Garnish and Serve:
Once done, garnish the burgers with fresh parsley, and serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, like sour cream or mustard, for extra flavor!
Optional: For an extra kick, add some sliced jalapeños on top before broiling!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?
Enhance your dinner experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement these low-carb burgers.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the savory richness of cabbage burgers.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like zucchini or bell peppers bring a sweet depth while providing a vibrant color contrast.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: This creamy, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes brings flavor and texture without the extra carbs, making it a fitting companion.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds a refreshing bite, contrasting beautifully with the juicy meat and crispy cabbage.
- Pickles or Jalapeños: A side of zesty pickles or spicy jalapeños can elevate the flavor profile, offering a delightful contrast to the burgers.
- Creamy Dipping Sauce: Whip up a quick sour cream or yogurt-based sauce with herbs for an extra creamy element that pairs wonderfully with your oven-baked burgers.
- Sparkling Water or Light Beer: Opt for refreshing drinks like sparkling water or a crisp, light beer to cleanse the palate between bites.
How to Store and Freeze Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Fridge: Store leftover Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.
Freezer: To freeze, arrange uncooked assembled burgers on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: For reheating, place burgers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to regain crispiness or microwave for 1-2 minutes, covered, until warmed through.
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your delicious cabbage burgers with these fun variations!
- Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option. You’ll still get robust flavor without all the fat.
- Veggie Delight: Substitute ground meat with black beans or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option that’s packed with nutrients. You’ll be amazed at how delicious a meatless burger can be!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for an extra heat boost. This twist transforms your burgers into a fiery feast, perfect for spice lovers.
- Herb Explosion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for brightness and flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the taste and make your burgers refreshing!
- Cheese Variations: Change up the cheese toppings—try pepper jack for a spicy twist or feta for a creamy, tangy option. Each cheese brings its own unique character to the dish.
- Seasonal Flavors: Incorporate seasonal herbs like sage in the fall, or basil in the summer for a fresh and seasonal touch. This is a delightful way to celebrate what’s in season!
- Zesty Toppings: Consider topping your burgers with sliced avocado or a drizzle of sriracha mayo for a mouthwatering finish. These toppings not only add flavor but also bring a creamy texture to the burgers.
- Smoke it Up: For an even bolder flavor, finish your burgers on the grill instead of baking. The smoky aroma adds an irresistible element that’ll have family and friends coming back for seconds.
Expert Tips for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
• Even Patties: Ensure your meat patties are uniform in size to guarantee even cooking throughout, preventing some from being overcooked while others remain underdone.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between the cabbage rounds on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate, promoting even browning of both the cabbage and meat.
• Check Temperature: For perfectly cooked meat, use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is reached for your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers.
• Customize Flavor: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices. A pinch of oregano or basil can elevate the flavor profile, making each batch uniquely yours.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow your burgers to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier, more delicious bite.
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage should I use for the buns?
Absolutely! A small head of green cabbage is ideal as it offers sturdy yet tender leaves that hold up well in baking. Look for heads that are tightly packed with no dark spots. If you can’t find cabbage, other firm greens can be used, but they won’t provide the same structure.
How long can I store leftover Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?
Very! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers, and how should I do it?
You can indeed! To freeze, first, assemble the uncooked burgers on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What should I do if my cabbage is wilting or has brown spots?
If your cabbage is wilting with dark spots, you should avoid using it. Look for heads that are firm, green, and free of blemishes for the best results. In case you find yourself with slightly wilted cabbage, you can revive it by soaking it in cold water for about 30 minutes before using.
Are Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers safe for people with gluten allergies?
Glad you asked! Yes, these burgers are inherently gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for flavoring. Always check the labels of the ingredients to ensure they are safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?
Experimenting with spices is a great way to amp up the flavor! I often recommend adding herbs like oregano or basil to the meat mixture. You can also consider topping the burgers with different cheeses or fresh ingredients like sliced avocado after baking for an extra flavor boost!
Savory Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers You'll Crave Again and Again
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing bowl
- knife
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Buns
- 1 small head green cabbage
For the Meat Patties
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey Your choice of protein.
- 1 medium onion Chopped finely.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced.
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Substitute with regular paprika or cayenne if desired.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Consider gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
- 1 large egg Optional; helps bind the mixture.
For Assembly
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For brushing on cabbage.
- 1 cup shredded cheese Optional.
Instructions
How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully cut the cabbage into ½ inch thick rounds. Brush both sides with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and egg (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Form them into patties, pressing them down gently onto the cabbage rounds.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the burgers and broil for an additional 3-5 minutes until melted and bubbling.
- Garnish the burgers with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
Nutrition
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