If you’re searching for a dish that’s both simple and packed with bold flavors, this Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks Recipe is an absolute game changer. Thick slices of cabbage get beautifully caramelized in the oven with a fragrant garlic blend and a hint of smoked paprika, transforming humble cabbage into a savory, crispy, and tender delight. It’s such a satisfying way to eat your greens and perfect for adding a little wow factor to your weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on this recipe is refreshingly easy since the ingredients are straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to bring out the best in every bite. Each element plays its part in creating that irresistible balance of crispy edges, aromatic warmth, and vibrant flavor.
- 1 large green or red cabbage: The star of the show, slicing into thick steaks ensures a perfect roasted texture that holds up well in the oven.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter for a richer flavor): This coats the cabbage, helping it caramelize beautifully while adding smooth, rich notes.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a robust garlic flavor that infuses each bite without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color that makes the cabbage steaks truly pop.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Offers a gentle savory depth to complement the other spices.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a delicate herbal aroma that adds complexity and freshness.
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Essential for enhancing every flavor and balancing the sweetness of roasted cabbage.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and peppery kick, rounding out the seasoning.
- Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or fresh parsley: For added texture, a touch of heat, or a burst of brightness on serving.
How to Make Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Start by carefully removing any loose outer leaves from your cabbage and trimming the stem if needed to create a flat base. Slice the head of cabbage into thick steaks, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This solidity lets the cabbage hold together firmly while roasting, delivering a satisfying bite that’s soft in the center but beautifully crisp around the edges.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning Blend
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning mix is the magic that elevates the cabbage steaks with complex, savory layers that pair wonderfully with the natural sweetness that roasting brings out.
Step 3: Oil and Season the Cabbage
Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil all over each cabbage steak to ensure every surface gets coated. Then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly on both sides of every steak. If you prefer a richer taste, melted butter works beautifully here to add some indulgence to the dish.
Step 4: Roast to Golden Perfection
Place the cabbage steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased roasting pan. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to develop even caramelization. The sizzling heat transforms the cabbage’s edges to a deep golden brown while tenderizing the inside for a fantastic textural contrast.
How to Serve Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks Recipe
Garnishes
Once your cabbage steaks come out of the oven, don’t hesitate to add finishing touches that bring even more flavor and visual appeal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty richness that melts slightly on the hot cabbage. Red pepper flakes can give you that subtle heat kick, and a scattering of fresh parsley adds a fresh, bright pop of color and herbaceous aroma.
Side Dishes
This Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks Recipe shines brilliantly as a side dish or even a main component of your meal. Pair it with smoky grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a simple grain like quinoa or rice for a wholesome plate. It’s also fantastic alongside roasted potatoes or a crisp garden salad to round out your dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or switch things up, serve the cabbage steaks stacked as little towers with layers of your favorite sauces like tahini, yogurt drizzle, or a tangy vinaigrette. You could also chop them after roasting and toss into salads or grain bowls for a warm, flavorful addition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover roasted cabbage steaks store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to cool them completely before sealing to keep the texture intact and flavors vibrant.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, these cabbage steaks freeze well for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best taste.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the cabbage steaks into a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp edges return. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make them soggy instead of keeping that delightful texture.
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage in this Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks Recipe?
Absolutely! Red cabbage works wonderfully and adds a lovely pop of color to your plate. The roasting process brings out its natural sweetness just like green cabbage, so feel free to use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika? Can I substitute it?
If smoked paprika isn’t available, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper can work as a substitute. The smokiness adds a unique flavor, but you can still create a delicious dish without it.
Is this recipe vegan friendly?
Yes, it absolutely is vegan if you stick with olive oil instead of butter and skip toppings like Parmesan cheese. The natural flavors shine beautifully without any animal products.
How thick should I slice the cabbage steaks?
About 1 to 1.5 inches thick is ideal. This thickness allows the cabbage to hold together during roasting while achieving a great balance between tender insides and crisp, caramelized edges.
Can I add fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
You can, though garlic powder distributes evenly and roasts without burning more easily. If using fresh garlic, mince it finely and toss it with the oil before brushing it on the cabbage steaks to avoid burning and bitterness.
Final Thoughts
This Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks Recipe is one of those simple yet impressive dishes that you’ll want to come back to again and again. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it delivers maximum flavor and texture that can elevate any meal. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy cabbage!
Print
Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks Recipe
Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks are a simple and flavorful vegetarian side dish featuring thick slices of green or red cabbage roasted to perfection with a blend of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and aromatic herbs. These cabbage steaks come out tender with a slight char, enhanced by optional toppings like grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or fresh parsley, making them an excellent savory, healthy addition to any meal.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large green or red cabbage
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove any loose outer leaves of the cabbage and cut it into 1-inch thick slices to form cabbage steaks.
- Season the cabbage: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Brush both sides of each cabbage steak generously with the seasoned oil mixture to ensure even flavor coverage.
- Arrange for roasting: Place the cabbage steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, arranging them in a single layer without overlapping to promote even roasting.
- Roast the cabbage: Roast the cabbage steaks in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Roast until the edges are tender and caramelized, and the surface shows a lovely golden-brown crust.
- Add optional toppings and serve: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or fresh parsley over the roasted cabbage steaks immediately after removing them from the oven. Serve warm as a side dish or a light vegetarian main.
Notes
- Use a large sharp knife and stable cutting board when slicing the cabbage steaks to maintain their shape.
- Adjust seasoning quantities according to your taste preferences.
- Cabbage steaks can be paired beautifully with a variety of mains, including grilled meats, roasted poultry, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
- To make vegan, use olive oil instead of butter and skip Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Leftover cabbage steaks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or stovetop for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
