Golden edges, tender centers, and that deep roasted garlic aroma drifting through the kitchen. These Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks turn a humble head of cabbage into something truly comforting and beautiful.
If you think cabbage is plain or boring, this recipe will completely change your mind. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness, and the garlic melts into every layer. It is simple, budget-friendly, and surprisingly elegant on the plate. Let's get cooking!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Made with just a handful of simple ingredients
- Crispy edges with soft, buttery centers
- Naturally low carb and vegetarian
- Ready in about 35 minutes
- Perfect as a healthy side dish or light main
- Family-friendly and great for weeknights
I have made these cabbage steaks more times than I can count, especially when I want something cozy but lighter. Every time, I am reminded how roasting transforms even the simplest vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 large green cabbage
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for warmth and color)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Cabbage: Choose a firm, heavy head with tight leaves. Green cabbage works best, but savoy cabbage is also lovely.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the richest flavor. Garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh really shines here.
- Olive oil: Helps the edges crisp and adds depth. Avocado oil is a good substitute.
- Parmesan: Optional, but it creates a savory, lightly crisp topping.
If you are curious about different cabbage varieties and their uses, Bon Appétit has a helpful guide on cooking with cabbage.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove any loose outer leaves from the cabbage. Slice it into 1-inch thick rounds, keeping the core intact so the slices hold together.
- In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil and minced garlic.
- Arrange the cabbage slices on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides generously with the garlic oil mixture. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and slightly crisp. The centers should be tender when pierced with a fork.
- If using Parmesan, sprinkle it on during the last 5 minutes of roasting so it melts and lightly browns.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Slice the cabbage evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
- Do not skimp on the oil. It helps achieve those crispy edges.
- Roast on the middle rack for even browning.
- Flip carefully using a wide spatula to keep the slices intact.
- For extra crispness, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end. Watch closely.
The first time I made these, I cut the slices too thin and they fell apart. Now I keep them about an inch thick, and they roast beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This keeps the edges crisp better than the microwave.
Make Ahead & Freezing
You can slice the cabbage and prepare the garlic oil mixture a day ahead. Store separately in the refrigerator until ready to roast.
I do not recommend freezing after roasting, as cabbage can become watery once thawed.
Tips and Variations
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze after roasting for a sweet-savory finish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella during the last few minutes for a cheesy twist.
- Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Add crispy bacon bits for a heartier side dish.
If you enjoy vegetable-forward sides, you might also love my Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin for another cozy oven dish.
FAQs
They may be overcrowded on the pan. Spread them out so the heat circulates properly.
Yes, but the cooking time may vary slightly. Red cabbage can take a few extra minutes to become tender.
Flipping helps both sides brown evenly, but you can skip it if you prefer one deeply caramelized side.
📖 Recipe
Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
- Diet: Vegan
Description
If you're looking for a simple, healthy, and irresistibly crispy dish, Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks are a must-try.
Ingredients
- 1 large green or red cabbage
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it
- Remove outer leaves from cabbage and slice into ¾-inch thick steaks keeping the core intact
- In a small bowl mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper
- Brush mixture generously onto both sides of each cabbage steak
- Arrange steaks in a single layer on prepared baking sheet
- Roast for 25-30 minutes flipping halfway through until tender and crispy
- Serve warm with optional toppings if desired
Notes
Keep the core intact when slicing to help the steaks hold together. Adjust seasoning to taste and add optional toppings like red pepper flakes or fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
Serving Suggestions
These oven roasted garlic cabbage steaks pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a hearty lentil dish. They also make a wonderful addition to holiday tables alongside dishes like my Ultimate Green Bean Casserole.
Serve them warm, straight from the oven, when the edges are still crisp and the garlic aroma is irresistible.
Nutrition & Notes
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 to 40 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 120 per serving (without Parmesan)
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary.
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Related Recipes
If you love cozy breakfast recipes, you might also enjoy:
- Easy Chocolate Chip Banana Peanut Butter Muffins Recipe
- Grandma's Cinnamon Rolls
- Slow Cooker Millet Porridge
This is one of those recipes that proves simple ingredients can create something truly special. I hope these oven roasted garlic cabbage steaks become a cozy staple in your kitchen.
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