Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

If you’re looking for a fun and healthy twist on your usual burger night, then these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are just what you need! They pack a punch of flavor while keeping things light and low-carb. I love making these when I’m craving something hearty yet wholesome. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and everyone will be asking for seconds!

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to put together. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that feels indulgent without the guilt. Trust me, once you give these Cabbage Burgers a try, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the fun shape and taste, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
• Healthy & low-carb: These burgers are packed with protein and veggies, giving you all the satisfaction without the carbs.
• Make ahead convenience: You can prepare the mixture in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of spices and melted cheese brings all the flavors together beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to make our Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers truly delightful. Let’s gather what you need:

For the Cabbage Base

• 1 small head of cabbage (cut into thick slices)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Burger Mixture

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)

For Topping

• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Feel free to get creative with your toppings or the meat used. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add extra veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers or spinach into the burger mixture for added nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like feta or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
• Spice it up: Add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to give your burgers an extra kick!

How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven helps cook the burgers evenly and gives them that lovely golden finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

Slice the cabbage into thick rounds about ½-inch thick. Brush both sides with olive oil before placing them on a lined baking sheet. This not only adds flavor but also helps prevent sticking during baking.

Step 3: Make the Burger Mixture

In a bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and egg if you’re using it. Mixing it well ensures that every bite is loaded with flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

Take a handful of your meat mixture and press it onto each cabbage slice to form patties. This step is where you get to have some fun shaping each burger – don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; they’ll taste great either way!

Step 5: Bake

Place your assembled burgers in the oven for about 25 minutes. Baking allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Broil with Cheese

After baking, remove from oven and sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each burger. Broil them for an additional 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and slightly golden. This adds an irresistible cheesy layer that completes our burgers perfectly.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve alongside your favorite dipping sauce like sour cream or mustard. Enjoy every bite of these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers—your new favorite dinner!

Pro Tips for Making Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Making Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to ensure your burgers turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right cabbage: Opt for a small head of cabbage, as it will yield thicker slices that hold up better when baking. Larger cabbages can be tougher and harder to manage.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions add a burst of flavor that enhances the overall taste of your burgers. Avoid pre-packaged options when possible for the best results.

• Consider your cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese! Cheddar offers sharpness, while mozzarella provides a gooey texture. Find what suits your taste buds best.

• Don’t skip the egg: If you want a firmer burger, adding an egg helps bind the mixture together, making it easier to mold onto the cabbage slices.

• Make it spicy: If you enjoy a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture. This will elevate the flavor profile and make your burgers even more exciting!

How to Serve Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not only tasty but also visually appealing. Present them in a way that highlights their deliciousness and makes the meal feel special!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up your plate.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop on top provides creaminess and balances out the flavors beautifully.
• Pickled jalapeños: For those who like it spicy, pickled jalapeños provide not just heat but also a tangy contrast to the rich meat.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli in olive oil and roast until tender. They make for a colorful and nutritious side.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of the burgers while adding healthy grains.

• Sweet potato fries: Baked sweet potato fries are not only delicious but also add a lovely sweetness that pairs well with savory burgers.

• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with shredded carrots and cabbage tossed in a light vinaigrette adds texture and freshness to your meal.

Enjoy crafting your perfect plate with these delightful serving suggestions! Your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance, ensuring you have a healthy and delicious meal ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the burgers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the burgers cool down completely.
• Wrap each burger individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped burgers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers:

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

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will work perfectly in this recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times as turkey may cook faster than beef.

How do I make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers gluten-free?

To make these burgers gluten-free, simply replace Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free version or use coconut aminos. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

Can I use different types of cheese on my Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with any cheese you love. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add a delightful twist to your burgers.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy trying out these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers! They’re not only tasty but also a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re preparing them for dinner or meal prep, I trust they will bring joy to your table. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to experience how wonderful these burgers can be!