Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
When it comes to burgers, we often think of juicy beef patties sandwiched between fluffy buns, paired with melted cheese, crisp lettuce, and tangy sauces. While undeniably delicious, the traditional burger isn’t always the healthiest option, especially for those trying to cut down on carbs or looking for gluten-free alternatives.
Enter the Oven-Baked Cabbage Burger — a wholesome twist on the classic that replaces the bun with roasted cabbage “rounds.” Each cabbage slice becomes a sturdy yet tender base that not only holds the filling but also adds a naturally sweet, earthy flavor. This recipe proves that eating healthy doesn’t mean giving up comfort food.
These burgers are oven-baked, which means they’re lighter than pan-fried or grilled versions, yet still packed with flavor. Imagine a juicy beef patty, seasoned to perfection, tucked between layers of roasted cabbage, topped with cheese, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
In this article, we’ll cover everything from the origins of cabbage-based recipes, nutritional benefits, detailed cooking steps, creative serving ideas, and storage tips. By the end, you’ll have the ultimate guide to making Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers at home.
Why Choose Cabbage as a Burger Base?
Cabbage might not be your first thought when imagining a burger bun substitute, but once roasted, it transforms into something magical:
- Nutritional Boost: Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and fiber while being low in calories.
- Keto & Gluten-Free Friendly: Perfect for low-carb, keto, or gluten-sensitive diets.
- Surprisingly Flavorful: When baked, cabbage becomes slightly caramelized, bringing out its natural sweetness.
- Budget-Friendly: A head of cabbage costs significantly less than specialty gluten-free buns.
- Sturdy Structure: Baked cabbage slices hold their shape, making them an ideal “bun.”
Ingredients
For the Cabbage “Buns”:
- 1 large green cabbage (cut into thick rounds, about 1-inch slices)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a leaner option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 1 egg (to bind)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra texture)
Toppings & Extras:
- 4 slices cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced red onions
- Pickles
- Lettuce leaves
- Favorite burger sauce (ketchup, mustard, or aioli)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the cabbage into thick, even rounds (about 1-inch thick) so they resemble burger buns. Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. - Bake the Cabbage:
Arrange the cabbage slices on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until edges are golden and slightly crispy but the centers remain tender. - Make the Patties:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, egg, and breadcrumbs (if using). Mix until just combined (don’t overmix). Shape into 4 equal patties. - Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil. Sear patties for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer them to a baking tray and finish cooking in the oven for about 8–10 minutes (internal temp: 160°F for beef). - Melt the Cheese:
Place a slice of cheese on each patty in the final 2 minutes of baking. Allow it to melt slightly. - Assemble the Burgers:
Take a roasted cabbage slice as the base, top with lettuce, the cheesy beef patty, tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Drizzle with sauce of choice and cover with another cabbage slice. - Serve & Enjoy:
Secure with a toothpick if needed. Serve hot with a side of baked sweet potato fries or a crisp salad.
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice cabbage into 1-inch rounds. Brush with olive oil, season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bake cabbage slices for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
- Mix ground beef, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, egg, and breadcrumbs. Shape into 4 patties.
- Sear patties in skillet 2–3 minutes per side, then transfer to oven for 8–10 minutes until cooked through.
- Top patties with cheese in final minutes of baking until melted.
- Assemble burgers with cabbage buns, patties, cheese, toppings, and sauce.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
