Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Description

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are a delicious and healthier twist on the classic burger. Instead of bread buns, tender roasted cabbage slices cradle a juicy, well-seasoned beef (or chicken/turkey) patty, topped with melted cheese and your favorite burger fixings. This recipe is hearty, low-carb, gluten-free, and full of flavor—perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome comfort meal.

Ingredients for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

• 1 medium head of green cabbage (cut into thick rounds, 1–1.5 inches)

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey/chicken/lamb)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg (to bind)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs or almond flour (optional, depending on diet)

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 slices cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella)

• Burger toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, mustard, ketchup, etc.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Slice cabbage into thick rounds (1–1.5 inches).

   • Brush both sides lightly with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place on a lined baking sheet.

2. Roast the Cabbage:

   • Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.

3. Prepare Burger Patties:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

   • Form into 4 patties.

4. Cook Patties:

   • Heat a skillet with a little olive oil. Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through.

   • Place cheese slices on top of each patty to melt.

5. Assemble Burgers:

   • Place one roasted cabbage round on a plate, top with a burger patty and desired toppings, then cap with another cabbage round.

   • Serve hot with a side salad or baked sweet potato fries.

Notes

• For extra flavor, brush cabbage with garlic butter before roasting.

• Can be made fully keto by skipping breadcrumbs and using almond flour or flaxseed meal.

• Works with chicken, turkey, or even plant-based patties.

• Can meal-prep roasted cabbage in advance.

Tips

• Slice cabbage evenly to ensure even roasting.

• Don’t overcrowd the baking tray—space allows caramelization.

• For crispier “buns,” broil the cabbage slices for 2–3 minutes after roasting.

• If you want a lighter version, grill the patties instead of pan-frying.

Servings

• Makes 4 cabbage burgers (serves 4 people).

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 320

• Protein: 24g

• Fat: 20g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Fiber: 4g

• Net Carbs: 6g

(Values may vary based on toppings and choice of meat.)

Health Benefits

• Low-carb & gluten-free: Perfect for keto or gluten-sensitive diets.

• Rich in fiber: Cabbage aids digestion and satiety.

• High protein: Builds muscle and keeps you full longer.

• Nutrient-dense: Cabbage provides vitamin C, K, and antioxidants.

Q & A

Q1: Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes! Use a black bean or lentil patty and follow the same method.

Q2: How do I keep the cabbage from falling apart?
Cut thick slices and roast until just tender—not too soft. A spatula helps lift them.

Q3: Can I meal-prep these burgers?
Yes! Roast cabbage ahead of time and store in the fridge. Reheat and assemble with fresh patties.

Q4: Can I freeze them?
You can freeze cooked patties, but roast cabbage fresh for best texture.

Q5: What sides go best with cabbage burgers?
Try baked sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a light cucumber salad.