Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both delicious and healthy, then these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are just what you need! I love this recipe because it combines the hearty flavor of burgers with the freshness of cabbage, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, they’re low-carb, so they fit wonderfully into a variety of diets without sacrificing taste. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a favorite in your home!

These burgers are not only tasty but also incredibly fun to make. You can get the kids involved in shaping the patties, and everyone will enjoy customizing them with their favorite toppings. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time!
• Healthy Option: Low in carbs and packed with protein, these burgers are guilt-free and nourishing.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun shape and great taste, making dinner a breeze.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the components in advance and bake them when you’re ready to eat!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and melted cheese makes each bite utterly delightful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers call for simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. It’s always nice to know that we can create something special without running around for exotic items. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 parts about these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Mix in some chopped bell peppers or spinach into the meat mixture for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like chili powder or cumin to give your burgers an extra kick.
• Cheese options: Try different cheeses such as feta or pepper jack for a unique twist on flavor.

How to Make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your burgers cook evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

Slice the cabbage into thick rounds—about ½-inch thick works well. Brush both sides with olive oil and place them on a lined baking sheet. This method not only keeps the cabbage from sticking but also adds a lovely roasted flavor.

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 choose to use it. Mixing these ingredients well is essential; it helps distribute all those wonderful flavors throughout your burger patties.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

Take a handful of your meat mixture and gently press it onto each cabbage slice to form patties. Making sure they are well-shaped will help them hold together during baking.

Step 5: Bake

Place your baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. After this time, remove them from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each burger. This is where the magic happens—the cheese melts beautifully!

Step 6: Broil

Switch your oven setting to broil and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Keep an eye on them during this step; broiling can go quickly!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley or serve alongside sour cream or mustard for dipping. These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not just meals; they’re moments to enjoy with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

These handy tips will help you perfect your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers, making them even more delicious!

• Select fresh cabbage: Choosing a fresh, firm head of cabbage ensures that your burgers hold together well and have a delightful crunch. Look for vibrant green leaves with no wilting or browning.

• Don’t skip the seasoning: Properly seasoning your meat mixture makes all the difference in flavor. Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices, like oregano or cayenne pepper, to suit your taste.

• Adjust the burger size: If you prefer smaller or larger burgers, simply adjust the amount of meat mixture you use on each cabbage slice. Just remember to keep an eye on cooking time, as smaller patties will cook faster.

• Use parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only makes cleanup easier but also prevents the burgers from sticking, ensuring they come off the sheet easily without falling apart.

• Let them rest: Allow the cabbage burgers to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for a juicier bite when you take your first delicious mouthful!

How to Serve Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile! Here are some fun ways to serve them up.

Garnishes

Enhance your dish with these simple garnishes:

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the flavors.

• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that complements the savory burger perfectly while adding healthy fats.

Side Dishes

Pair your burgers with these delightful side dishes:

• Sweet potato fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet and crispy contrast to the savory flavors of the burgers. They’re easy to make and add a nutritious touch to your meal.

• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with shredded carrots and green onions tossed in a light vinaigrette can provide a crunchy side that balances out the richness of the burgers.

• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice is not only colorful but also adds a nutritious element, making for a well-rounded plate.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon dressing brings a refreshing grain option that pairs beautifully with the cabbage burgers, adding both texture and flavor.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re all set to create an impressive meal featuring Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily prepare these burgers in advance, making your weeknight dinners a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cabbage burgers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, first let the burgers cool completely.
• Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Don’t forget to label it!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the frozen burgers on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warm.

FAQs

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

Can I use other meats for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a substitute for ground beef. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ground meat.

How do I make sure my Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers hold together?

Using an egg as a binder helps keep everything together. If you prefer not to use an egg, ensure your meat mixture is well-combined and consider adding a bit of cooked quinoa or breadcrumbs for extra binding.

Can I make Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers ahead of time?

Yes! These burgers are fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy.

What can I serve with Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?

These cabbage burgers pair wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even some sweet potato fries. Add your favorite dipping sauces for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers! They bring a delightful twist to the classic burger while keeping things healthy and low-carb. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and toppings that suit your taste! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—happy cooking!