Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional burgers. They combine the crunchiness of cabbage with flavorful beef, creating a unique dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply looking for a healthy meal option, these burgers are sure to impress. With their easy preparation and delicious taste, they stand out as a go-to recipe for health-conscious diners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy all the flavor without the carbs found in traditional buns.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize your burgers with different cheeses or spices to suit your taste.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and veggies, these burgers make a nutritious meal option.
- Kid-Friendly: The fun presentation and flavors appeal to kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make your cooking experience smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Brush (for oiling)
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking and helps prevent sticking.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to ensure even flavor throughout.
- Parchment paper: Makes cleanup easy and prevents the cabbage from sticking to the baking sheet.

Ingredients
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional burgers, offering a flavorful and healthy meal option.
For the Cabbage Base
- 1 small head of cabbage (cut into thick slices)
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
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage
Slice the cabbage into thick rounds about ½-inch thick. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Make the Burger Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Ground beef (or turkey)
2. Chopped onion
3. Minced garlic
4. Salt
5. Black pepper
6. Smoked paprika
7. Worcestershire sauce
8. Egg (if using)
Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
Take a handful of meat mixture and press it onto each cabbage slice to form patties.
Step 5: Bake the Burgers
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until cooked through.
Step 6: Add Cheese Topping
Remove from the oven and sprinkle cheese on top of each burger.
Step 7: Broil for Finish
Broil for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Step 8: Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley or serve alongside sour cream, mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce!
How to Serve Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty dinner, these burgers can be customized to suit your taste.
With Fresh Greens
- Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves instead of buns for a fresh, crunchy alternative.
- Mixed Salad: Serve the burgers on a bed of mixed greens, topped with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers.
With Dipping Sauces
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang.
- Mustard: A spicy or honey mustard can enhance the flavor profile of the burger.
With Toppings
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the savory beef perfectly.
- Sliced Pickles: Add pickles for a tangy crunch that balances the flavors.
With Additional Veggies
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair your burgers with roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for added nutrition.
- Coleslaw: A side of coleslaw offers a crunchy contrast and refreshing taste.
How to Perfect Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
To ensure your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to season generously. The spices enhance the flavors and make the dish more exciting.
- Thick Slices of Cabbage: Cut cabbage slices about ½-inch thick for better stability when holding the burger mixture.
- Chill Before Baking: Refrigerate the assembled burgers for 15 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables provide better flavor compared to dried options.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your burgers while baking. Oven temperatures may vary, so adjust cooking time if needed.
Best Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Pairing side dishes with your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory burgers; bake or air-fry them for a healthier option.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing makes a nutritious pairing.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower is a low-carb alternative to potatoes that pairs well with beef flavors.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds a touch of elegance and is packed with nutrients.
- Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil and garlic creates a light side that complements the burgers well.
- Corn on the Cob: Grill or boil corn on the cob for a sweet, crunchy side that adds summer vibes to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the perfect Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers, avoid these common mistakes that can impact flavor and texture.
- Overcooking the cabbage: Cooking the cabbage too long can lead to a mushy texture. Stick to about 25 minutes of baking for the best result.
- Not seasoning enough: Neglecting to season your meat mixture can result in bland burgers. Use salt, pepper, and spices liberally for enhanced flavor.
- Skipping the cheese broiling step: Forgetting to broil at the end means missing out on that delicious melted cheese finish. Always broil for 3-5 minutes after baking.
- Using too thin cabbage slices: Thin slices won’t hold up well as burger buns. Cut your cabbage into thick slices (about ½ inch) for better stability.
- Ignoring binding agents: If you’re using egg, don’t skip it! It helps hold everything together, especially if you’re making larger patties.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow burgers to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
- They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on high for about 1-2 minutes or until warm; be cautious not to overheat as it can make them soggy.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes per side until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that keeps the dish lean while maintaining flavor.
What toppings go well with Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?
Consider topping with fresh herbs, sliced avocado, or your favorite sauces like mustard or sour cream.
How do I customize my Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?
Feel free to add different spices or vegetables into the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition!
Are Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not include any bread or flour ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not only delicious but also offer a healthy alternative to traditional burgers. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various toppings and spices. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its unique flavors!
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers offer a delicious and healthy twist on traditional burgers, making them perfect for anyone looking to reduce their carb intake without sacrificing flavor. These delightful patties showcase the crunchiness of cabbage paired with savory ground beef or turkey, resulting in a unique dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Ideal for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and incredibly versatile. Customize your burgers with different cheeses and spices to suit your taste preferences. With their kid-friendly appeal and wholesome ingredients, Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are a meal the whole family will enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 burgers 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage (cut into thick slices)
- 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
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the cabbage into thick slices, brush both sides with olive oil, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and egg (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Shape a handful of the meat mixture onto each cabbage slice to form patties.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle cheese on top of each burger.
- Broil for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley or alongside your favorite dipping sauces.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg