Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks – Crispy, Tender, and Packed with Flavor
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s simple, healthy, and unbelievably delicious, these Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks are about to become your new favorite. With their crispy golden edges, tender centers, and garlicky buttery aroma, they’re proof that cabbage can be so much more than a soup or slaw ingredient.
This dish turns a humble head of cabbage into a savory, melt-in-your-mouth treat with just a few ingredients. It’s budget-friendly, naturally low-carb, keto-friendly, and pairs beautifully with almost any main dish — from grilled meats to hearty vegetarian meals.
What Makes These Cabbage Steaks So Good
What I love most about roasted cabbage is how it transforms in the oven — it goes from firm and mild to caramelized, nutty, and slightly sweet. The garlic butter infuses each layer, creating a flavor that’s rich and deeply satisfying without being heavy.
They’re elegant enough for a dinner party yet easy enough for a quick weeknight meal. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite seasonings — think paprika, Parmesan, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra heat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 medium head of green cabbage
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Optional Add-Ins
- Red pepper flakes for spice
- Lemon juice or zest for brightness
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Slice the Cabbage
Remove any loose outer leaves, then cut the cabbage from top to bottom into thick, even slices — about ¾ to 1 inch thick. Be gentle to keep the slices intact; the core helps hold them together.
3. Make the Garlic Oil
In a small bowl, combine olive oil (or melted butter) with minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Brush and Roast
Place the cabbage steaks on the baking sheet. Brush the garlic oil mixture generously over each slice. Roast for 20 minutes, flip carefully, brush again, and roast another 15–20 minutes until golden brown and tender.
5. Finish and Serve
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a crispy, cheesy finish. Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Prep & Cooking Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
Per Serving:
Calories: 130
Fat: 10g
Carbs: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 3g
Tips for the Best Cabbage Steaks
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give the cabbage room to roast — this ensures crispy edges instead of steaming.
- Use high heat. The key to caramelization is a hot oven.
- Flip carefully. A large spatula helps keep the slices from falling apart.
- Add flavor layers. Brush with garlic butter midway through roasting for even more richness.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Garlic Cabbage Steaks: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan before the final few minutes of roasting.
- Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper or a drizzle of sriracha to the garlic mixture.
- Balsamic Glazed: Drizzle balsamic reduction right before serving for a sweet-savory twist.
- Smoky Paprika: Use smoked paprika or a touch of cumin for depth and warmth.
What to Serve with Garlic Cabbage Steaks
These cabbage steaks make a versatile side dish. Serve them with:
- Grilled chicken, steak, or salmon
- Roasted potatoes or mashed cauliflower
- A dollop of sour cream or keto ranch dressing
- A grain bowl or lentil salad for a vegetarian meal
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 5–7 minutes to bring back their crisp edges. Avoid microwaving — it makes the cabbage soggy.
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes! Red cabbage works beautifully and gives a more colorful presentation. Just note that it has a slightly stronger flavor.
How do I keep the cabbage from falling apart?
Cut through the core and keep a bit attached to each steak — that’s what holds the slices together while roasting.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
It already is! Just use olive oil instead of butter and skip the Parmesan, or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Can I roast cabbage steaks in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
How can I make it more filling?
Top with a fried egg, crispy bacon, or chickpeas for a hearty meal version.
Bringing Simple Ingredients to Life
These oven-roasted garlic Cabbage Steaks prove that even the simplest vegetables can shine when cooked right. With golden, crispy edges and a melt-in-your-mouth center, they’re a side dish that transforms everyday cabbage into something special.
Whether you serve them as a light vegetarian main, a keto-friendly side, or part of a festive dinner spread, they’ll impress with their flavor and texture. Simple, rustic, and downright delicious — this is comfort food with a healthy twist.
Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of green cabbage
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp paprika optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese optional
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Optional Add-Ins:
- Red pepper flakes for spice
- Lemon juice or zest for brightness
- Balsamic glaze for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove loose cabbage leaves and slice cabbage into ¾–1 inch thick steaks. Keep the core attached so they hold together.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil (or butter) with garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange cabbage slices on the sheet and brush generously with the garlic oil.
- Roast for 20 minutes, flip gently, brush again, and roast another 15–20 minutes until golden and tender.
- During the last 5 minutes, sprinkle Parmesan if using.
- Garnish with parsley and lemon juice before serving.
