Name: Savory Roasted Cabbage Burgers: Cheesy Low-Carb Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 head Cabbage (green cabbage or savoy); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (or use fresh minced garlic); 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (sweet paprika is a substitute); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 1 lb Ground Beef (ideally 80/20); 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce (optional); 1/2 tsp Onion Powder (or use fresh onions); 1 tbsp Butter or Olive Oil (for cooking); 4 slices Cheddar Cheese (or mozzarella or vegan cheese if dairy-free); 4 tbsp Sugar-Free Ketchup (or homemade options)

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As I stood in the kitchen, the unmistakable aroma of savory garlic and smoky paprika wafted through the air, teasing my taste buds. That’s when I knew it was time to whip up my latest obsession—Cheesy Roasted Cabbage Burgers! This recipe is a clever twist on traditional burgers, featuring crispy roasted cabbage slices as the perfect low-carb substitute for buns. Not only is it super simple to prepare, but it’s also an absolute crowd-pleaser, ideal for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep—who wouldn’t love that? With juicy, pan-seared beef patties topped with gooey cheddar cheese, every bite offers a delightful crunch wrapped around the heartiness of a classic burger. Ready to explore a flavor-packed dish that fits seamlessly into any healthy eating plan? Let’s dive into these mouthwatering Roasted Cabbage Burgers!

Why choose Roasted Cabbage Burgers?

Unique Twist: These Roasted Cabbage Burgers redefine what a burger can be. With oven-roasted cabbage slices as buns, you get a refreshing crunch that traditional bread can’t offer.

Low-Carb Delight: Perfect for anyone on a keto or low-carb diet, this recipe satisfies cravings without the carbs, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Customizable Options: Feel free to top these burgers with anything from sautéed mushrooms to spicy jalapeños, allowing you to personalize each bite to your taste.

Family-Friendly Appeal: Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or the health-conscious, everyone will love the gooey cheddar and juicy beef—and you might even get to sneak in some veggies!

Time-Saving Meal: Whip these up quickly for a weeknight dinner, or meal prep them in advance for easy lunches throughout the week. Check out my Radish Salad Roasted for a perfect side!

Roasted Cabbage Burger Ingredients

For the Cabbage Buns

Cabbage – The star of our dish, offering a crunchy texture as the perfect base; green cabbage or savoy works wonders!
Olive Oil – Essential for roasting to achieve that golden crisp; avocado oil or melted butter can be substituted.
Garlic Powder – Adds a savory flavor kick; feel free to use fresh minced garlic for a stronger taste.
Smoked Paprika – Gives a depth of flavor with a smoky richness; sweet paprika is a suitable alternative for a milder hint.
Salt and Black Pepper – Crucial for seasoning; adjust to suit your taste preferences.

For the Beef Patties

Ground Beef (1 lb) – The main protein source, ideally 80/20 for juiciness; leaner meat works too if you prefer less fat.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp, optional) – Infuses umami depth; omit for strict keto or swap with coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
Onion Powder (½ tsp) – Enhances sweetness and flavor; fresh onions can be used instead for added texture.
Butter or Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Choice for cooking the patties; select based on your preference.

For the Toppings

Cheddar Cheese (4 slices) – Melts beautifully for a creamy addition; try mozzarella or vegan cheese if you’re dairy-free.
Sugar-Free Ketchup (4 tbsp) – Provides a tangy zing without the sugars; homemade options using tomato paste and spices work well too for those on a low-carb plan.

Get ready for a satisfying treat with these Roasted Cabbage Burgers, where health meets flavor seamlessly!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Roasted Cabbage Burgers

Step 1: Roast the Cabbage
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the cabbage and season generously with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, turning the cabbage halfway through until golden and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated. Form the mixture into four equal patties, ensuring they’re slightly larger than your cabbage rounds. This size will help them fit perfectly when assembling the Cheesy Roasted Cabbage Burgers.

Step 3: Cook the Burgers
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add your choice of butter or olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the beef patties into the skillet. Sear each patty for about 3-4 minutes on one side until browned, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked through and they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Remove the roasted cabbage from the oven once it’s crispy and golden. Place a slice of cheddar cheese atop each cabbage round and return them to the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is perfectly melted and gooey. This step adds an irresistible creamy layer to your Cheesy Roasted Cabbage Burgers.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
Once the cheese has melted, take the beef patties and place them atop each cheesy cabbage “bun.” Feel free to get creative with your toppings—crisp bacon, dill pickles, or finely chopped onions all add delicious flavors. Serve the assembled Cheesy Roasted Cabbage Burgers warm, allowing everyone to savor these delightful low-carb treats.

What to Serve with Cheesy Roasted Cabbage Burgers

A delightful meal is just around the corner, filled with vibrant flavors and textures.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Adds a sweet, crunchy contrast to the savory cabbage burgers, creating a balanced meal everyone will love.
Fresh Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes brings refreshing elements that highlight the richness of the burgers beautifully.
Spicy Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy slaw complements the crunch of the cabbage burgers while adding a spicy kick that enhances every bite.
Garlic Butter Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with garlic butter provides an elegant side dish, perfectly contrasting the savory flavors of the burger.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, these noodles are a great low-carb pairing that adds a hint of sweetness to your meal.
Avocado Salsa: Creamy avocado mixed with tomatoes and cilantro offers a rich topping that elevates the savory notes of the cabbage burgers.
Chilled Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate and enhances the enjoyable experience of every bite.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For a healthier dessert option, this rich, creamy treat can round off your meal while staying low-carb!

Roasted Cabbage Burgers Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Roasted Cabbage Burgers—there are so many delicious ways to make this dish your own!

Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack for a spicy twist or vegan cheese for a dairy-free option without compromising the delicious melt factor.
Herb Infusion: Blend in fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil into the beef mixture to add a pop of freshness.
Mushroom Fun: Sauté mushrooms to add a savory, earthy flavor that complements the beef and cabbage beautifully.
Bacon Boost: Crumble crispy bacon on top for a salty crunch that elevates the overall experience.
Heat Factor: Spice things up by adding jalapeños or chipotle seasoning to the beef for a fiery kick.
Ketchup Alternatives: concoct a delicious homemade sauce using tomato paste mixed with balsamic vinegar and smoked paprika for a unique tang.
Corn-Free Option: Instead of Worcestershire sauce, opt for coconut aminos to keep it soy-free and ensure it’s suitable for various diets.
Vegetarian Version: Swap beef patties for black bean patties or grilled portobello mushrooms, creating a hearty, plant-based meal.

Utilize these variations to personalize your Roasted Cabbage Burgers and delight your taste buds! For a vibrant side, don’t forget to try my Radish Salad Roasted—a refreshing accompaniment! Plus, if you want to add a delightful texture contrast, why not try out a Pasta Salad with Roasted Veggies alongside for a complete meal?

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Roasted Cabbage Burgers are a fantastic option for meal prep aficionados! You can prepare the cabbage buns and beef patties up to 24 hours in advance. Simply roast the cabbage as described and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it crispy. For the patties, form them and refrigerate them without cooking; this helps in maintaining flavor and texture. Before serving, simply sear the patties in a skillet until cooked through, and then assemble with melted cheese on the pre-roasted cabbage. Enjoy the convenience of a delicious meal ready in minutes, just as satisfying as if freshly made!

Expert Tips for Roasted Cabbage Burgers

Cabbage Thickness Matters: Ensure your cabbage rounds are at least 1-inch thick to hold the burger and toppings without drooping.
Crispy Cabbage: Flip the cabbage halfway through roasting to achieve that wonderfully crispy texture. This prevents sogginess and enhances flavors.
Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor punch, consider marinating the ground beef patties before cooking. It infuses them with rich, savory notes.
Skillet Space: Avoid overcrowding your skillet when searing patties. This way, they cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
Topping Choices: Don’t hesitate to customize! Adding unique toppings like sautéed mushrooms or spicy jalapeños can elevate your Roasted Cabbage Burgers to new flavor heights.

How to Store and Freeze Roasted Cabbage Burgers

Fridge: Store leftover Roasted Cabbage Burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping the cabbage and patties separate can help maintain their textures.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled burgers wrapped tightly in plastic, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the cabbage remains crispy while warming the patties and cheese through.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving the burgers out for longer than 2 hours at room temperature to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Roasted Cabbage Burgers Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best cabbage for these burgers?
Absolutely! When choosing cabbage, look for heads that are firm and heavy for their size, with vibrant color and no dark spots all over. Green cabbage is a common choice, but savoy cabbage offers a milder flavor and a more tender texture, making it perfect for these delicious Roasted Cabbage Burgers!

What’s the best way to store leftover Roasted Cabbage Burgers?
You can store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend keeping the cabbage rounds and patties separate to help maintain the wonderful textures. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven to retain that crispy cabbage goodness!

Can I freeze Roasted Cabbage Burgers?
Yes! To freeze, wrap each assembled burger tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, and then pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and still crispy.

What if I have leftover beef patties or cabbage?
No worries! Both the beef patties and roasted cabbage can be stored individually. Keep cooked beef patties in the fridge for up to 3 days, and roasted cabbage can also be kept for the same period. You could use leftover patties in salads, or the cabbage in a stir-fry, so you don’t waste any deliciousness!

Are Roasted Cabbage Burgers suitable for kids or picky eaters?
Very! The delicious combination of gooey cheddar cheese and juicy beef is often appealing to kids and picky eaters. Plus, using cabbage instead of traditional buns can be a sneaky way to incorporate more veggies into their diet while still offering flavors they enjoy!