Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy meal option that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are a delightful twist on traditional burgers. They offer all the flavors we crave while keeping things light and nutritious. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, these burgers allow you to enjoy a hearty meal without the carbs.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? Let’s dive into why you’ll fall in love with this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few steps, you can whip up these tasty burgers in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids love the fun shape and delicious flavors, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep the burger mixture earlier in the day and assemble them when you’re ready to bake!
• Low-carb delight: Perfect for those following low-carb diets, these burgers are both satisfying and healthy.
• Customizable toppings: Get creative with your favorite toppings or dips—options are endless!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Gather these items for a delightful cooking experience:

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

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adjust it to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Go vegetarian: Replace meat with a mix of beans, lentils, or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
• Add veggies: Chopped bell peppers or spinach can be mixed into the burger mixture for extra nutrition.
• Experiment with spices: Try different spices like cumin or chili powder to give your burgers a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your burgers will bake evenly and develop that lovely golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

Slice your cabbage into thick rounds, about ½-inch thick. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil. This will help them caramelize beautifully in the oven while providing a tasty base for our burgers.

Step 3: Make the Burger Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef (or turkey), finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and egg if you’re using it. Mix until well combined—this step is crucial as it helps bind everything together and infuses flavor throughout your burgers.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

Take a handful of your burger mixture and press it onto each cabbage slice, shaping it into a patty. Make sure to cover the cabbage well; this will keep everything juicy during baking!

Step 5: Bake Them Up!

Place your assembled cabbage burgers on a lined baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. The goal here is to cook through while retaining moisture.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Broil

After baking, remove them from the oven and sprinkle cheese on top of each burger. Pop them back into the oven under the broiler for an additional 3-5 minutes until they’re melted and slightly golden. This step adds an irresistible cheesy goodness that takes these burgers over the top!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, garnish with fresh parsley if desired or serve with sour cream, mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every bite of your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers! They’re sure to become a family favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Creating delicious Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

• Choose the right cabbage: Opt for a small head of cabbage to ensure the slices are tender and manageable. A smaller cabbage also gives you perfectly sized rounds that hold the burger mixture well.

• Don’t skip the olive oil: Brushing the cabbage with olive oil not only enhances its flavor but also helps prevent sticking during baking. This way, your burgers come out beautifully golden and easy to lift off the baking sheet.

• Mix it well: When combining your burger mixture, use your hands for an even blend. This ensures all ingredients are evenly distributed, leading to flavorful bites in every burger.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the ground meat mixture. Fresh or dried herbs like oregano or thyme can enhance the flavor and make your burgers even more delicious.

• Check for doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, it’s smart to check that the internal temperature of the beef reaches 160°F (71°C) for safety. This ensures your burgers are cooked through while still juicy.

How to Serve Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Presenting your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers beautifully can make your meal feel even more special! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, making your burgers visually appealing.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top provides creaminess and tang, balancing out the flavors of the burgers perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to savory burgers while keeping things healthy. Their crispy texture pairs wonderfully with the cabbage.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing side of coleslaw adds crunch and a zesty kick that complements the grilled flavors of your cabbage burgers.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus bring vibrant colors and added nutrients, making them a great accompaniment.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing provides a nutritious, filling side without overwhelming the main dish.

Enjoy serving these delicious Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers with these garnishes and sides for a wholesome meal that everyone will love!

Make Ahead and Storage

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers make an excellent choice for meal prep! They are not only delicious but also easy to store and reheat, making them perfect for busy weekdays. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Flash freeze the burgers by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid.
• Transfer the frozen burgers to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated burgers, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen burgers, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat in a microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes per burger.

FAQs

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

Can I use different meats for the Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives can be used instead of ground beef. Just adjust cooking times accordingly if necessary.

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

To ensure your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are gluten-free, simply omit any sauces that may contain gluten and use gluten-free alternatives if needed.

Can I add other vegetables to the burger mixture?

Yes! Feel free to incorporate finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers! They offer a unique twist on traditional burgers while being healthy and satisfying. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and flavors as you make this dish your own. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!

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