Name: Cabbage Burgers Oven-Baked for a Guilt-Free Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head of green cabbage; 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 1/2 cup chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg; 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (optional); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt & pepper to taste; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar; 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Olive oil for brushing

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If you’re anything like me, you crave comfort food but not the guilt that tags along. These Cabbage Burgers Oven-Baked are a cozy, satisfying twist on a classic burger—without the bun, but all the flavor.

I first made them on a hectic Tuesday, juggling work emails and laundry piles, and wow—they saved dinner! With juicy patties, melty cheese, and tender cabbage rounds baked to golden bliss, this dish hits the spot every time.

It’s a quick fix for busy moms, a low-carb lifesaver, and honestly, just plain delicious. Your family won’t even miss the bun!

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Burgers Oven-Baked

This recipe is a weeknight wonder—simple, satisfying, and surprisingly quick. You’ll love how these Cabbage Burgers Oven-Baked deliver all the juicy, cheesy goodness of a traditional burger, minus the carb coma.

It’s a wholesome meal that pleases picky eaters, fits low-carb goals, and doesn’t leave a pile of dishes behind. Plus, it feels like comfort food without the regret. What more could a tired, hungry home cook ask for?

Ingredients Cabbage Burgers Oven-Baked

Let’s break down what you’ll need to whip up these delicious Cabbage Burgers Oven-Baked—no fancy store runs required. Most of these ingredients are probably hanging out in your kitchen right now.

Green cabbage: Choose a medium, firm head. You’ll slice it into thick, sturdy rounds that serve as your “bun.” Look for tightly packed leaves.
Ground beef (or turkey): Juicy ground beef gives that classic burger taste, but ground turkey is a leaner, equally tasty option.
Chopped onion: Adds sweet depth and texture to the patties. Yellow or white onions both work great.
Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic gives a savory punch. Garlic powder can pinch-hit in a rush.
Egg: Acts as a natural binder to keep the patties from falling apart. No one wants a crumbly burger!
Breadcrumbs (optional): Add tenderness and hold. Skip them for a keto-friendly burger idea.
Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty richness to the mix. Grated fresh is best, but pre-shredded works too.
Smoked paprika: This spice adds smoky depth that takes your patties from “meh” to memorable.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning. Don’t be shy—these two make all the difference.
Shredded mozzarella or cheddar: Melty, gooey cheese crowns each burger. Use what your crew loves for the ultimate cheesy cabbage patties.
Marinara or tomato sauce: Adds saucy, tangy flavor. Jarred or homemade—just make sure it’s one you’d eat with a spoon.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle on top for a fresh pop of color and herby brightness.
Olive oil: Brushed on cabbage slices to help them roast to tender perfection.

For exact amounts and a handy printable version, scroll to the bottom of the post. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this one handy!

How to Make Cabbage Burgers Oven-Baked

Here comes the fun part—bringing this Cabbage Burgers Oven-Baked recipe to life! It’s as easy as layering, baking, and enjoying. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, these steps are simple to follow and totally doable on a weeknight.

Step 1 – Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. That sweet spot gives you juicy burgers and tender cabbage without drying anything out.

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze—and trust me, after a long day, that matters!

Step 2 – Slice and Arrange the Cabbage

Grab your cabbage and slice it into thick rounds, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Think of them as sturdy little veggie “plates.”

Lay each round flat on the baking sheet. Try to keep the layers intact so they hold up during baking—no floppy cabbage allowed!

Step 3 – Make the Burger Patties

In a big bowl, mix your ground beef (or turkey), onion, garlic, egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs (if using), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This combo smells like dinnertime magic already.

Form the mix into patties that are roughly the same size as your cabbage rounds. You want them to nestle in just right.

Step 4 – Assemble the Cabbage Burgers

Brush the tops of your cabbage rounds with a little olive oil. This helps them roast up tender and flavorful.

Now, gently place one burger patty on each cabbage slice. It’s like building a low carb burger alternative without the bun fuss.

Step 5 – Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The patties should be cooked through, and the cabbage will turn soft and lightly browned around the edges.

That sweet roasted smell filling your kitchen? That’s your new favorite healthy comfort food recipe doing its thing.

Step 6 – Add the Sauce and Cheese

Time to dress things up! Spoon a bit of marinara or tomato sauce over each patty—just enough for a saucy layer.

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top. This is where the cheesy cabbage patties really shine.

Step 7 – Broil and Garnish

Switch your oven to broil and pop the tray back in for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely—the cheese should melt and bubble like a pizza commercial.

Pull them out, shower with fresh parsley, and serve hot. These oven baked veggie burgers are hearty, flavorful, and 100% satisfying.

Tips for Success

Use a sharp knife to slice cabbage evenly—this helps them cook at the same rate.
Don’t skip the olive oil—it keeps the cabbage tender and prevents sticking.
Mix patties gently—overworking the meat can make them tough.
Watch the broiler! Cheese goes from bubbly to burnt in seconds.
Let them rest a minute before serving—they’ll hold together better.

Equipment Needed

Baking sheet: A large one fits all your cabbage rounds. Line it with parchment for easy cleanup.
Mixing bowl: Use a medium to large bowl to combine your patty ingredients.
Chef’s knife: For slicing cabbage neatly—serrated knives tend to shred it.
Cutting board: A sturdy surface for prepping your veggies and meat.
Measuring cups/spoons: Handy for spices, cheese, and breadcrumbs if you’re using them.

Variations

Spicy twist: Add chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture or a dash of hot sauce in the marinara for a little extra kick.
Veggie-loaded: Mix in finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the patties for added nutrients and flavor.
Italian-style: Swap the marinara for pesto and top with shredded provolone or fresh mozzarella for a bold Mediterranean flair.
Southwest flavor: Use taco seasoning instead of paprika, and top with salsa and pepper jack cheese for a zesty makeover.
Dairy-free: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep it creamy and comforting without the dairy.
Vegan option: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute, flaxseed instead of egg, and vegan cheese for a fully oven baked veggie burger experience.
Mini sliders: Cut smaller cabbage rounds and form mini patties—perfect for parties or little hands at the dinner table.
Breakfast version: Top each patty with a fried egg instead of marinara and cheese for a savory morning treat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp side salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Serve alongside roasted sweet potato wedges or garlic green beans for added comfort.
A chilled sparkling water or light red wine complements the cheesy cabbage patties beautifully.
Garnish with extra parsley or red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these cabbage burgers oven-baked ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! I’ve prepped these cabbage burgers oven-baked the night before and they hold up beautifully. Just assemble everything up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready, pop them in the oven and bake as directed. It’s a great time-saver for busy weeknights or meal prep Sundays.

Q: Is this recipe a low carb burger alternative?

A: Yes, 100%! These cabbage burgers are your bun-free best friend. They ditch the carbs without ditching the flavor. You get all the juicy, cheesy satisfaction of a traditional burger, but with cabbage stepping in as a hearty, wholesome base. It’s the ultimate low carb burger alternative that even carb-lovers enjoy.

Q: What cheese works best for cheesy cabbage patties?

A: Mozzarella and cheddar are my go-to choices for melty goodness, but honestly, any cheese that melts well will do the trick. Think gouda, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack if you’re feeling bold. The key is to let the cheese bubble and brown a little—it’s what makes these cheesy cabbage patties so irresistible.

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this ground beef cabbage bake?

A: You sure can! I’ve swapped in ground turkey plenty of times when I wanted something leaner. It still delivers big flavor, especially when seasoned well. This easy swap keeps the dish light while still giving you that hearty, savory vibe of a classic ground beef cabbage bake.

Q: Are cabbage burgers a keto-friendly burger idea?

A: Definitely. Skip the breadcrumbs and you’re looking at a solid keto-friendly burger idea that fits right into your low-carb lifestyle. It’s packed with protein, cheesy goodness, and healthy fats—no bun needed! Plus, cabbage brings fiber and nutrients without spiking your carb count.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about pulling a tray of these Cabbage Burgers Oven-Baked out of the oven—cheese bubbling, marinara sizzling, and the kitchen smelling like a cozy hug. They’re proof that healthy comfort food doesn’t have to be bland or boring.

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, watching carbs, or just craving something hearty without the heaviness, this recipe delivers. It’s simple yet feels special, wholesome yet indulgent. And the best part? You made it with love—and probably in under an hour. Now that’s what I call a win at the dinner table.

Cabbage Burgers Oven-Baked for a Guilt-Free Meal