Irresistible Oven Baked Cabbage Burgers

Looking for a healthier alternative to traditional burgers? These Oven Baked Cabbage Burgers are perfect for anyone seeking a low-carb, gluten-free, and flavorful twist on the classic burger. With tender cabbage as the “bun” and a savory meat patty made from ground beef (or turkey), these burgers are loaded with flavor and super satisfying. They’re easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and are perfect for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet.

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Ingredients for Oven Baked Cabbage Burgers

This Oven Baked Cabbage Burgers uses a combination of fresh ingredients that make the burgers deliciously hearty and healthy. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 small head of cabbage (cut into thick slices)
• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)

These simple ingredients come together to create a tasty, low-carb meal that can be customized to suit your tastes.

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Preparation Instructions for Oven Baked Cabbage Burgers

Making these Oven Baked Cabbage Burgers is a breeze! Let’s walk through the easy steps to prepare them.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cabbage doesn’t stick and cleanup is easy.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Slice the cabbage into thick rounds, about ½-inch thick. This will form the “buns” for your burgers.
2. Brush both sides of the cabbage slices with olive oil and place them on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures that the cabbage becomes tender and slightly crispy as it bakes.

Step 3: Make the Meat Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and egg (if using).
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The egg helps bind the mixture, making it easier to shape into patties, but it’s optional.

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Step 4: Shape and Assemble the Burgers

1. Take a handful of the meat mixture and press it onto each cabbage slice. Shape it into a patty that covers most of the cabbage slice, leaving a small border visible. This way, the cabbage acts as a “bun” while the flavorful meat takes center stage.

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Step 5: Bake the Cabbage Burgers

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through. The internal temperature of the meat should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef, or 165°F (74°C) for turkey.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Broil

1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of each burger patty.
2. Switch the oven to broil mode and return the baking sheet to the oven. Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Be sure to watch carefully to prevent burning!

Step 7: Rest and Serve

1. Once the cheese is melted and golden, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cabbage burgers rest for a few minutes.
2. Serve the burgers hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. For dipping, offer sides like sour cream, mustard, or your favorite low-carb dipping sauce.

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Notes on the Recipe

• Cabbage Options: You can also use other cabbage varieties, such as napa cabbage or savoy cabbage, for a slightly different texture and flavor. However, green cabbage is the most commonly used and holds up well as a “bun.”
• Meat Choices: Ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef to make the burgers leaner. Both options work well, but beef will give the burgers a richer flavor.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to customize the cheese! Cheddar or mozzarella works best, but you could try provolone, gouda, or Swiss for a different flavor.
• Egg Binding: The egg is optional but helps the meat mixture hold together more firmly. If you’re looking for an egg-free version, you can omit the egg, though the mixture might be slightly softer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Undercooking the Meat: Make sure to check the internal temperature of the meat with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through. Undercooked meat can lead to foodborne illnesses.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature before baking the cabbage and meat. This ensures even cooking and the proper texture for the cabbage.
• Overcooking the Cabbage: Cabbage can become too soft and mushy if baked for too long. Monitor the baking time and remove the cabbage burgers once the meat is fully cooked and the cabbage has become tender.

Serving and Presentation Tips

These Oven Baked Cabbage Burgers are perfect for serving on their own or as part of a larger meal. Here are a few ways to present them:

• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair these burgers with a refreshing salad like Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta or a light Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice for a well-rounded meal.
• Offer Low-Carb Dips: Serve your cabbage burgers with low-carb dips like Ranch Queso Dip or Bacon Tomato Dip for an added burst of flavor.
• For Meal Prep: These cabbage burgers are great for meal prepping. Simply bake them in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven for a quick and easy meal.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cabbage burgers can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave them or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these Oven Baked Cabbage Burgers without the cheese?
Yes! If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can skip the cheese entirely or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I use a different vegetable as the “bun”?
While cabbage is the best option for this recipe, you could experiment with other vegetables like zucchini slices or portobello mushroom caps for a unique twist.

How can I make these spicier?
For added spice, consider adding some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. You can also top the burgers with jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Conclusion

These Oven Baked Cabbage Burgers are a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional burgers. The combination of juicy, well-seasoned meat, tender cabbage, and melty cheese is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping things low-carb. Whether you’re on a keto diet, looking for a gluten-free meal, or just wanting to try something different, these cabbage burgers are a tasty and satisfying option.

Give this Oven Baked Cabbage Burgers a try today, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! For more healthy and delicious recipes, be sure to subscribe to our blog and stay up-to-date with the latest culinary inspiration.

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