Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Recipe

Introduction

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers offer a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, featuring tender, roasted cabbage wrapped around a savory filling. These low-carb, gluten-free burgers are bursting with flavor and perfect for anyone looking for a lighter, vegetable-packed option. With a satisfying combination of crispy cabbage, seasoned meat, and flavorful seasonings, this recipe provides a hearty meal without compromising on taste.

Whether you’re following a low-carb, gluten-free diet or simply looking for a creative way to enjoy cabbage, Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are an exciting twist on the classic burger. This guide will walk you through every step of the recipe, offering tips for perfect results and suggestions for customizing the filling to suit your tastes. Get ready to enjoy a nutritious and mouthwatering alternative to your regular burgers.

Why You’ll Love Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

• Healthy Alternative to Traditional Burgers: These burgers use cabbage instead of a bun, making them a great option for anyone looking to cut down on carbs or avoid gluten.
• Flavorful and Filling: Despite being a lighter option, these burgers are full of savory flavors, thanks to the seasoned ground meat and the naturally sweet and crisp cabbage.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. They bake in the oven, freeing you from standing over the stove.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the filling to include your favorite ingredients, such as cheese, herbs, and spices. Add extra veggies or switch up the protein for a unique spin.
• Low-Carb and Gluten-Free: These burgers are a great choice for those following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free lifestyle, providing a satisfying meal without the usual bread bun.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories per burger, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 7-9g
• Protein: 22-25g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Burgers:

• 1 medium head of cabbage (preferably green or savoy cabbage)
• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian option)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for added flavor)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)

Special Equipment

While making Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers doesn’t require many specialized tools, the following items can help ensure smoother preparation and better results:

1. Large Knife: A sharp knife will help you carefully cut the cabbage into large leaves.
2. Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet is essential for arranging the cabbage burgers in a single layer for even baking.
3. Large Bowl: A mixing bowl is necessary to combine the ground meat, seasonings, and any additional ingredients.
4. Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat can help prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
5. Cooking Brush: A brush is useful for applying olive oil or any other glaze to the cabbage wraps for added crispiness and flavor.
6. Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements of seasonings and ingredients will ensure the right balance of flavors.
7. Meat Thermometer: Using a meat thermometer is helpful to check when the ground meat has reached the appropriate internal temperature (160°F or 71°C for ground beef).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Start by removing the outer leaves of the cabbage and discarding them. Cut the cabbage in half through the core, and then carefully remove the core of the cabbage. Once you’ve removed the core, separate the cabbage into large leaves. You will need about 8-10 leaves for the burgers, depending on their size.

To make the cabbage leaves pliable, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. This softens the leaves and makes them easier to fold around the filling. After blanching, immediately transfer the cabbage leaves to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain the leaves well and set them aside.

2. Prepare the Meat Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or chosen protein), finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. If you want to add cheese to the filling, you can mix in ½ cup of shredded cheese at this stage.

If the mixture feels too loose, you can add an egg to help bind it together. The egg is optional but can improve the texture and help keep the filling in place.

Mix everything together thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

3. Assemble the Cabbage Burgers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent the cabbage from sticking.

Take one of the prepared cabbage leaves and place a generous spoonful of the meat filling in the center. Carefully fold the edges of the cabbage leaf around the filling to create a secure bundle. You may need to overlap the edges of the cabbage leaf to ensure the filling stays inside.

Repeat this process with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling, arranging each cabbage burger on the prepared baking sheet. If any leaves are particularly large, you can cut them in half to better fit the size of the filling.

4. Brush with Olive Oil

Using a brush, lightly coat the cabbage wraps with olive oil. This will help them become golden and crispy as they bake. You can also sprinkle a bit of salt on top of each cabbage burger for added flavor.

5. Bake the Cabbage Burgers

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cabbage burgers for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and lightly browned. If you’re using cheese in the filling, the cheese should melt and become slightly golden.

For extra crispiness, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on the burgers during this step to prevent burning.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the cabbage burgers are cooked to your liking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them as a main dish, alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. These cabbage burgers are also great with a side of low-carb dipping sauce, like a tangy tomato sauce or creamy ranch dressing.

Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

• Use Fresh Cabbage: For the best results, use fresh cabbage that is crisp and firm. Avoid older, wilted cabbage leaves, as they may not hold up as well during the baking process.
• Season the Filling Well: Since cabbage has a mild flavor, it’s important to season the meat filling generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your taste.
• Avoid Overstuffing the Cabbage: While you want to add plenty of filling, be careful not to overstuff the cabbage leaves. Overstuffed wraps are more likely to break apart while baking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the meat is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the filling. It should reach at least 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Different Proteins: If you’re using a leaner protein like ground turkey, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Lean meats tend to cook faster, so keep an eye on the burgers to avoid overcooking.

Variations of Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

• Turkey Cabbage Burgers: Swap out ground beef for lean ground turkey for a lighter, healthier alternative. The mild flavor of turkey pairs wonderfully with cabbage.
• Vegetarian Cabbage Burgers: For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based protein like crumbled tempeh, tofu, or lentils as the filling. Add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, to boost the flavor and texture.
• Cheese-Stuffed Cabbage Burgers: For a cheesy twist, add a cube of mozzarella or cheddar cheese inside each cabbage wrap before baking. The cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey center.
• Spicy Cabbage Burgers: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat filling for a spicy kick. These burgers pair perfectly with a cool, creamy dipping sauce to balance the heat.

Storage and Shelf Life

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later. Allow the burgers to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, you can place the burgers back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cabbage burgers. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen cabbage burgers can last for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply reheat in the oven until hot.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Pair these delicious Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers with a variety of complementary sides to complete the meal:

• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative to regular rice, cauliflower rice pairs well with the cabbage burgers for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, provide a colorful and healthy side dish.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a great way to balance the richness of the cabbage burgers.
• Sweet Potato Fries: If you’re craving something a little heartier, serve the burgers with a side of baked sweet potato fries for a sweet and savory combination.

Print

Conclusion

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers offer a flavorful and healthy alternative to traditional burgers. With tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of seasoned meat and cheese, these burgers are satisfying without being heavy. Whether you’re following a low-carb or gluten-free lifestyle or simply looking for a new way to enjoy cabbage, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Quick, customizable, and full of flavor, Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are a great addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy this nutritious, tasty burger alternative today!