Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

If you’re looking for a tasty and satisfying meal that won’t break your diet, you’re in for a treat! Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not just a fun twist on the classic burger; they are also incredibly flavorful and healthy. I love making these for my family during busy weeknights or when we have company over. They’re easy to whip up, and everyone gets excited about digging into these delicious low-carb wonders!

What makes this recipe extra special is how adaptable it is. You can customize the flavors to match your family’s preferences, or even use leftovers creatively. Trust me, these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: In just 15 minutes, you can get everything ready to pop in the oven.
• Low-carb goodness: Perfect for anyone watching their carb intake while still wanting a hearty meal.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy these burgers wrapped in cabbage!
• Customizable: Use whatever ground meat you prefer and mix in your favorite spices.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare everything in advance and bake when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that making Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers is a breeze with simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful dish!

For the Burgers

• 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
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)

Variations

One of the best things about Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers is how flexible they are! Here’s how you can switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try ground chicken or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Mix in some finely chopped bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like feta or pepper jack for a unique taste.
• Spice it up: Add some chili flakes or your favorite hot sauce to give it an extra kick.

How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that your burgers won’t stick and makes cleanup super easy!

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 the prepared baking sheet. This step not only adds flavor but also helps the cabbage soften and hold together during baking.

Step 3: Make the Burger Mixture

In a large bowl, combine your ground beef (or turkey), finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and egg if you’re using it. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This mixture will become the delicious filling on top of each cabbage slice.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

Take handfuls of your meat mixture and press them onto each cabbage slice, shaping them into patties. It’s okay if they don’t look perfect; they’ll hold together beautifully once baked!

Step 5: Bake Time!

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. The burgers should be cooked through by now!

Step 6: Add Cheese & Broil

Remove from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each burger. Broil for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown. This gives an irresistible gooey topping that everyone will love!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with sour cream, mustard, or any dipping sauce you fancy! These burgers are sure to impress both family and friends alike—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Making Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers can be a fun and rewarding experience, and these tips will help you create the best version possible!

• Choose the right cabbage: Opt for a small, firm head of cabbage to ensure thick slices that hold up well during baking. This prevents the burgers from falling apart and gives you a sturdy base.

• Don’t skip the oil: Brushing olive oil on the cabbage slices not only adds flavor but also helps them crisp up nicely in the oven. This creates a delightful texture contrast between the tender meat and crispy cabbage.

• Let the mixture rest: After mixing your burger ingredients, let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes before forming patties. This allows flavors to meld together and improves the binding of ingredients, especially if you’re using an egg.

• Watch your baking time: Keep an eye on your burgers as ovens can vary in temperature. If you notice them browning too quickly, consider covering them loosely with foil to prevent burning while ensuring they cook through.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the meat mixture! A dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning can kick up the flavor profile and make each batch unique.

How to Serve Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

These delicious Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not only easy to make but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.

• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that complements the savory burgers beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots roasted with olive oil and herbs make for a colorful and nutritious side that pairs perfectly with the burgers.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast in textures and flavors.

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are not only healthier than regular fries but also add a hint of sweetness that balances out the savory cabbage burgers.

By presenting your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers with these garnishes and sides, you’ll create a meal that’s both visually appealing and satisfying! Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your own!

Make Ahead and Storage

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious and healthy meals throughout the week without any hassle. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked cabbage burgers to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, first allow the burgers to cool completely.
• Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Transfer the frozen burgers to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave for about 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions 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 pairs wonderfully with the flavors of cabbage. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.

How do I keep my Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers from falling apart?

Using an egg as a binder can help keep your burgers together. If you prefer not to use an egg, ensure your meat mixture is well-combined and packed tightly onto the cabbage slices.

Can I add other vegetables to my Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even shredded carrots into your meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

What dipping sauces pair well with Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?

Many sauces complement these burgers nicely. Try serving them with sour cream, mustard, or a homemade yogurt dip for a delicious touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers! They’re not just a unique twist on traditional burgers; they’re also a fantastic way to introduce more veggies into your meals while satisfying your cravings. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and toppings that suit your taste. I’m sure you’ll love them as much as I do!