If you’re searching for a healthy, low-carb dinner that still feels hearty and satisfying, these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are exactly what you need. Instead of traditional buns, thick cabbage slices act as the base for juicy, seasoned burger patties. As they bake, the cabbage becomes tender and slightly caramelized, while the meat stays flavorful and moist. Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers offer all the comfort of a classic burger with fewer carbs and more vegetables. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make them step by step, plus serving ideas, variations, and storage tips.
A Comfort Food Twist from Our Family Kitchen
In our kitchen, we love reinventing comfort food in simple, wholesome ways. Grandma always said that you don’t have to give up flavor to eat lighter. The first time I made Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. But once they came out of the oven, topped with melted cheese and sprinkled with parsley, I knew we had a winner.
The cabbage softens and holds the burger perfectly, almost like a rustic bun. Meanwhile, the edges caramelize slightly, adding natural sweetness. My husband loved how filling they were, and my daughter actually asked for seconds — which says everything.
If you enjoy vegetable-forward dishes like our Roasted Cabbage Steaks, this recipe builds on that same roasted flavor but adds protein for a complete meal.
These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are satisfying, balanced, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
For the Cabbage Base
- 1 small head cabbage, cut into thick ½-inch slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative)
- 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)
Optional Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
The smoked paprika adds depth, while Worcestershire sauce enhances savoriness. The egg helps bind the patties but isn’t required if your mixture holds well.
If you love protein-packed comfort meals like our Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole, this dinner version delivers similar satisfaction with a lighter twist.
How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage
Slice cabbage into thick ½-inch rounds. Brush both sides generously with olive oil.
Step 3: Mix the Meat
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Add egg if using. Mix until evenly combined.
Step 4: Form Patties
Shape the meat mixture into evenly sized patties. Place each patty directly on top of a cabbage slice.
Step 5: Bake
Place cabbage burgers on the baking sheet. Bake for about 25 minutes or until fully cooked.
Step 6: Add Cheese (Optional)
Sprinkle cheese over each burger and broil for 3–5 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh parsley and serve warm.
If you enjoy oven-roasted dinners like our Crockpot Lemon Garlic Chicken, these burgers fit perfectly into a balanced meal plan.
Serving, Variations & Storage
How to Serve Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Serve alongside:
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Simple green salad
- Garlic roasted broccoli
- Cauliflower mash
You can also drizzle with mustard or serve with a side of Greek yogurt sauce for extra flavor.
Flavor Variations
- Add shredded carrots into the meat mixture.
- Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Add chili flakes for spice.
- Swap cheese for dairy-free alternative.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days.
- Freeze cooked burgers up to 3 months.
- Reheat in oven to maintain texture.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers offer balanced macros while keeping carbs lower than traditional burgers.
FAQs About Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully and lowers fat content.
Does cabbage get soggy?
No. When sliced thick and roasted properly, cabbage becomes tender but still structured.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare patties in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Are these keto-friendly?
Yes. They are low in carbs and work well for keto-style diets.
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers – Healthy Low-Carb Dinner
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Description
Juicy oven-baked cabbage burgers with seasoned patties and optional melted cheese. Healthy low-carb dinner.
Ingredients
1 small head cabbage
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 medium onion
2 cloves garlic
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 egg (optional)
1 cup cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice cabbage and brush with oil.
3. Mix meat with seasonings.
4. Form patties and place on cabbage slices.
5. Bake 25 minutes.
6. Add cheese and broil 3-5 minutes.
7. Garnish and serve.
Notes
Store leftovers up to 3 days.
Freeze up to 3 months.