Oven-baked cabbage burgers are a fun twist on the classic burger! These tasty treats replace the bun with crispy cabbage leaves, filled with your favorite goodies like beef or veggies.
I love how easy they are to make! Just roast them in the oven until golden, and you’ve got a deliciously healthy meal. Plus, they won’t weigh you down like a regular burger! 🍔💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is perfect for this recipe due to its sturdy leaves. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try using savoy cabbage for a slightly sweeter taste.
Ground Beef: I recommend ground beef for a classic taste, but ground turkey is a leaner option. You could also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version!
Panko Breadcrumbs: They add a great crunch! If you want a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cakes. Regular breadcrumbs work too, but might not be as crispy.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan gives a nice depth of flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Cabbage Burgers?
Cooking cabbage burgers just right is key for flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Don’t skip resting the cabbage! Salting it and letting it rest helps remove excess moisture, ensuring the patties hold together better.
- When mixing the ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can make the burgers tough. Just mix until everything is combined.
- For even cooking, ensure your oven is preheated. Flipping the burgers halfway will help achieve a crispy exterior on both sides.
- For extra crispiness, broil the burgers for a minute or two after baking. Keep a close eye as they can brown quickly!
Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cabbage Patties:
- 1 small head of green cabbage (about 1.5 pounds), finely shredded
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped or grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce (for serving)
- Olive oil spray or 1-2 tablespoons olive oil for brushing
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for making these delicious cabbage burgers is about 40-45 minutes. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep, followed by about 30 minutes of baking. Cooking doesn’t get much easier than this!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your burgers bake evenly and become deliciously golden brown. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cabbage:
In a large mixing bowl, add your finely shredded cabbage and sprinkle with a little salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will soften the cabbage. Afterward, squeeze out the excess moisture either by hand or using a clean kitchen towel. This helps keep your burgers from getting soggy!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In the same bowl, add the ground beef, grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want these burgers to be tender!
4. Shape the Patties:
Now it’s time to form your mixture into burger-sized patties, roughly 6-8 depending on your preferred size. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, giving them some space in between.
5. Bake the Burgers:
Lightly spray or brush the tops of the patties with olive oil to encourage a nice browned crust. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Then, carefully flip each burger and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
6. Optional Crispiness:
If you like a crispier top, you can switch to broil mode for 1-2 minutes after baking. Just keep a close eye on them, as they can brown quickly!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cabbage burgers hot with warm marinara or tomato sauce spooned on top or on the side. Sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan and fresh thyme on top for added flavor. Enjoy your healthy, savory oven-baked cabbage burgers as a unique alternative to traditional burgers!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat’s fat content.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand, regular breadcrumbs will work fine, but they might not give the same crispy texture. For a gluten-free option, use crushed rice cakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cabbage burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for a quicker option.
Can I Freeze Cabbage Burgers?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties! Just freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. When you’re ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
