Name: Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers: Crispy, Flavorful, Guilt-Free Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 43 min
Ingredients: 4 cups cabbage (shredded); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free optional); 1 large egg (or 1 flax egg for vegan); 1/4 cup cheese (grated, optional); 1 small onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); spices (such as paprika and cumin); 1 tablespoon olive oil (or cooking spray)

The aroma of freshly baked burgers wafted through my kitchen as I realized a delightful change was brewing. Say goodbye to grease-laden patties and hello to Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers—a unique twist that merges crunch with comfort. These deliciously healthy burgers are a fantastic way to satisfy cravings without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Not only are they low-calorie and incredibly easy to prepare, but they’re also completely customizable, allowing you to dress them up with your favorite toppings or savor them just as they are. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or seeking a quick dinner solution, these cabbage burgers fit the bill perfectly. Ready to spice up your nutritious meal options? Let’s jump into this recipe that might just become your new favorite!

Why Are Cabbage Burgers So Special?

Healthy and Guilt-Free: These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are a guilt-free indulgence that allows you to enjoy a burger without the heavy calories.

Crispy Yet Tender: Baked to perfection, they boast a crispy exterior while remaining tender and flavorful inside, offering the best of both worlds.

Completely Customizable: Whether you prefer traditional toppings or want to get creative with spices, these burgers can adapt to your taste!

Quick and Simple: The straightforward instructions mean that even beginner cooks can whip these up in no time, making them ideal for busy weeknights.

Vegan Option Available: With a simple swap of ingredients, you can easily create a delectable vegan version that everyone will love.

For a twist on flavors, why not explore the Savory Cabbage Beef recipe for some hearty inspiration?

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Ingredients

For the Base

Cabbage – The star ingredient that provides the perfect structure; use green, savoy, or Napa for different textures.
Breadcrumbs – Bind the mixture and add crunch; swap with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
Egg or Flax Egg – Acts as a binder; for vegan versions, mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water.

For Flavor

Cheese (optional) – Adds creaminess and flavor; use cheddar or mozzarella, or omit for a vegan version.
Onion – Adds depth of flavor; can be sautéed for a milder taste if desired.
Garlic – For aromatic flavor that enhances the burger experience.
Spices (Paprika, Cumin, etc.) – Elevates overall taste; adjust quantity based on personal preferences.

For Cooking

Olive Oil or Cooking Spray – Ensures even baking and crispy edges for those mouthwatering Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers.

Dive into this delightful combination of textures and flavors that promises a satisfying burger experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup later. This will create a perfect surface for your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers, allowing them to bake evenly and attain that crispy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage
Shred 4 cups of fresh cabbage, choosing green, savoy, or Napa, depending on your preference. Once shredded, place the cabbage in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze to remove excess moisture. This crucial step will help prevent soggy burgers, ensuring your cabbage retains its texture when baked in the oven.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed cabbage with 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 egg (or flax egg for a vegan option), 1/4 cup of grated cheese, 1 small chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and your favorite spices such as paprika and cumin. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, creating a flavorful base for your delicious cabbage burgers.

Step 4: Form the Patties
Using a scoop or measuring cup, portion out about 1/3 cup of the cabbage mixture and shape it into round patties. Place each patty onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them for even cooking. Aim for a uniform thickness to ensure that all your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers cook at the same rate, achieving that perfect crispy exterior.

Step 5: Bake the Burgers
Lightly brush the tops of the patties with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray for added crispiness. Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, gently flip each patty to achieve an even golden-brown color, ensuring both sides become deliciously crispy.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the patties from the oven and allow them to cool for about 2-3 minutes on the baking sheet. This short cooling time will help them firm up a bit more. Serve these delightful Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers warm on burger buns, lettuce wraps, or alongside your favorite dips for a healthy and satisfying meal.

How to Store and Freeze Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Fridge: Keep your leftover Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their flavor and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked patties on a tray for 1 hour, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months!

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, bake frozen patties directly from the freezer for an additional few minutes until heated through.

Make-Ahead: Preparing the patties in advance and freezing them is a great way to enjoy healthy meals at your convenience!

What to Serve with Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Pair your cabbage burgers with vibrant sides that elevate your meal into something truly special.

Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fries add a touch of sweetness and color to your plate. They’re a crowd-pleaser and provide a satisfying crunch.
Fresh Garden Salad: A mix of leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers will brighten your meal. Drizzled with a light vinaigrette, this salad offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the burgers.
Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic provide a savory flavor that complements the cabbage burgers beautifully while adding a gourmet touch.
Creamy Avocado Dip: This silky dip offers a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with crispy burgers, enhancing every bite with a delightful twist.
Quinoa Tabouli: Bursting with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon, this dish adds a pleasant zing and celebrates the vibrant flavors of your meal.
Sriracha Mayo: A unique, zesty sauce that brings a spicy kick, perfect for drizzling over your cabbage burgers for an exhilarating flavor boost.

Craft your dining experience with these delightful pairings that will make your Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers shine!

Make Ahead Options

These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cabbage mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the cabbage to maintain that delightful texture. Additionally, you can shape the patties and freeze them uncooked for up to 2 months; just place them on a tray for an hour before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake the frozen patties directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for sensational, crispy results!

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers: Your Choice

Get ready to unleash your creativity with these flavorful burgers, as there are so many delightful ways to customize the recipe!

Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the mixture for a fun heat that livens up every bite.
Mediterranean Flair: Fold in feta cheese, black olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for an aromatic twist that transports you to a sun-soaked patio.
Seasonal Veggies: Toss in grated carrots or zucchini to increase nutrition and add a lovely texture to your cabbage burgers. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in veggies!
Low-Carb Option: Swap out breadcrumbs for almond flour to create a guilt-free, low-carb version that’s just as satisfying.
Herb-Infused: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the mix for a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens every bite.
Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate extra cheese like pepper jack for a melty, savory treat that’s bound to be a hit with cheese lovers.
Savory Sauces: Serve your burgers topped with zesty sauces like tzatziki or homemade aioli to elevate your burger experience to another level.
Crunchy Toppings: Try adding a handful of crunchy slaw or pickled veggies on top just before serving to give that satisfying crunch and extra zing!

Always remember, the beauty of these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers lies in their adaptability. For more delicious options, check out our Savory Cabbage Beef for another tasty twist on cabbage!

Expert Tips for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Squeeze Excess Water: Make sure to thoroughly squeeze the cabbage after shredding to avoid soggy Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers that won’t hold their shape.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to enlist your favorite spices, but remember that less is often more; start with smaller amounts and adjust to taste for best results.
Perfect Patties: Aim for uniform patty sizes to ensure even cooking. If they’re too thick, they may not crisp up nicely in the oven.
Vegan Binding: For a great vegan binder, ensure your flax egg is mixed well and allowed to sit for a few minutes; this helps it gel properly.
Leftover Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but for best texture, enjoy them fresh out of the oven!
Freezer Friendly: Create extra patties and freeze them; they can easily be baked straight from frozen with a few extra minutes of cooking time for quick meals later.

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Recipe FAQs

What type of cabbage is best for making cabbage burgers?
Absolutely! You can use green, savoy, or Napa cabbage for these burgers. Each type brings a different texture and flavor; green cabbage is crisp, savoy is tender, and Napa is slightly sweeter. Choose based on your personal preference or availability!

How should I store leftover Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers?
Keep any leftover Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their flavor and texture. It’s best to reheat them in the oven to keep that crispiness intact!

Can I freeze Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers? How?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked patties, shape them as instructed and lay them out on a tray. Freeze for 1 hour to firm them up, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, bake them straight from frozen for an extra few minutes.

What should I do if my burgers are too soggy?
If your burgers turn out soggy, it’s likely due to excess moisture in the cabbage. To prevent this, always squeeze out extra water thoroughly after shredding. Store them flat on a baking sheet before baking if they are too wet, giving them more time to crisp up during cooking.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cabbage burgers?
Yes! These burgers can easily be made vegan by replacing the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). If you have gluten sensitivities, simply switch out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free varieties. Always double-check your cheese options if you’re catering to dietary restrictions.

Can I add other vegetables to the mixture?
Very! Feel free to incorporate seasonal veggies like grated carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just remember to keep the water content in mind—squeeze out any excess moisture from these vegetables as well to maintain that perfect burger texture!