I still remember the first time I tried using cabbage as a wrap instead of a traditional bun. It was a chilly evening, and the warmth of the dish filled my kitchen with a comforting aroma. I was looking for a healthier alternative, and the result surprised me: a juicy burger wrapped in tender cabbage. Since then, I’ve made this recipe countless times for family and friends, and they always rave about it. This recipe matters because it takes a classic meal and gives it a healthy twist without sacrificing flavor. What’s more special than enjoying a guilt-free burger that tastes amazing?

Why Make This Recipe

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying meal while staying mindful of your health. By swapping out traditional burger buns for nutritious cabbage, you cut down on carbs and add more vitamins to your plate. Plus, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You can customize the filling to suit your tastes, making it a versatile choice for everyone in the family.

How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Ingredients

1 small head Cabbage (cut into thick slices)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for brushing)
1 pound Ground Beef or Turkey (or ground chicken or plant-based options)
1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves Garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
1 large Egg (optional, for binding)
1 cup Cheese (for sprinkling on top)

Directions

Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Cabbage: Cut the cabbage into thick slices and brush both sides with olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet.
Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and egg (if using). Mix until well combined.
Add the Filling: Take a scoop of the meat mixture and form it into patties. Place one patty on each cabbage slice.
Sprinkle Cheese: Top each burger with a sprinkle of cheese.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
Serve: Carefully remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

These cabbage burgers are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, mustard, or a creamy dressing. Pair them with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Store Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

If you have leftovers, store the cabbage burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Cabbage Size: Choose a small head of cabbage for manageable slices. Larger heads may be tougher to cut.
Binding the Meat: If you skip the egg and the filling feels too loose, try adding breadcrumbs for better binding.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese based on your taste.

Variation

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by using a plant-based meat substitute or by increasing the amount of vegetables in the filling, such as grated carrots or chopped mushrooms.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute the ground beef or turkey with chicken, pork, or any plant-based options you prefer.

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and cabbage slices in advance. Just assemble and bake them when you’re ready to eat.

What dipping sauces pair well with these burgers?

Ketchup, mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a creamy ranch dressing all make excellent choices for dipping. Feel free to get creative!