OVEN-BAKED CABBAGE BURGERS EASY

I remember trying to trick my little brother into eating more vegetables, and these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers were surprisingly effective, mostly because he loved anything that resembled a burger! Now, I’m sharing this recipe with you, so you can enjoy a healthier and incredibly flavorful twist on a classic. Prepare to be amazed at how delicious and simple it is to make these, and I promise, even picky eaters will be asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Absolutely Adore These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

Okay, friend, let’s get real for a second. We all crave comfort food, but sometimes our bodies crave something a little…lighter. That’s where these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers come in to save the day! They’re not just a healthier alternative to traditional burgers; they’re a flavor explosion that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Here’s why you’ll be hooked:

• Healthier than traditional burgers: Cabbage is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. We’re talking serious nutritional power here.
• Surprisingly flavorful: Don’t let the cabbage fool you. With the right seasonings and additions, these burgers are incredibly savory and delicious.
• Easy to make: Forget standing over a hot grill. These burgers bake in the oven, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: You can customize these burgers with your favorite toppings and sauces. The possibilities are endless!
• Budget-friendly: Cabbage is an inexpensive vegetable, making these burgers a great option for feeding a crowd on a budget.

The Secret to the Best Cabbage Burger Patty

Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of making these burgers. The key to a successful cabbage burger patty is getting the right consistency and flavor. Here’s my foolproof guide:

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Cabbage: The star of the show! I prefer green cabbage for its mild flavor and affordability, but you can also use Savoy or Napa cabbage. You’ll need about half a medium-sized head, finely shredded.
• Ground Meat (Beef, Turkey, or Chicken): This adds protein and flavor. Lean ground beef is a classic choice, but ground turkey or chicken works just as well. About a pound should do the trick.
• Onion and Garlic: Essential for building a flavorful base. Dice one medium onion and mince a couple of cloves of garlic.
• Breadcrumbs: These act as a binder and help to absorb excess moisture. I prefer panko breadcrumbs for their light and crispy texture, but regular breadcrumbs will also work.
• Egg: Another binder that helps to hold the patties together. One large egg is usually sufficient.
• Seasonings: This is where you can get creative! I like to use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Optional Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like shredded carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also add cheese for extra flavor and richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage: This is a crucial step! Finely shred the cabbage and then massage it with a little salt. This helps to draw out excess moisture, preventing the burgers from becoming soggy. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, then squeeze out as much liquid as possible using your hands or a clean kitchen towel. Don’t skip this step – seriously!
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a little olive oil or butter until softened and fragrant. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the cabbage mixture.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the squeezed cabbage, sautéed onion and garlic, ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in tough burgers.
4. Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. You can make them any size you like, but I find that medium-sized patties (about 4 inches in diameter) are easiest to handle.
5. Bake the Burgers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers on your favorite buns with your favorite toppings.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cabbage Burgers Every Time

Alright, let’s talk about some insider secrets to ensure your cabbage burgers are a smashing success. I’ve learned a few things over the years, and I’m happy to share them with you:

• Don’t skip the squeezing! I can’t stress this enough. Excess moisture is the enemy of a good cabbage burger. Squeezing the cabbage ensures that the patties hold their shape and don’t become soggy during baking.
• Use the right breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are my go-to because they’re light and crispy. However, if you only have regular breadcrumbs on hand, that’s fine too. Just be sure to use plain breadcrumbs, not seasoned ones, so you can control the flavor yourself.
• Don’t overmix the mixture: Overmixing can lead to tough burgers. Mix everything together until just combined.
• Let the patties rest: After forming the patties, let them rest in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps them to firm up and hold their shape better.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure the patties are spaced out evenly on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can prevent them from browning properly.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that the burgers are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef, 165°F (74°C) for ground turkey or chicken.

Variations and Customization Options

One of the best things about these Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers is how versatile they are. You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Spicy Cabbage Burgers: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick. You can also add some chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
• Cheesy Cabbage Burgers: Add shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, or pepper jack cheese to the mixture for extra flavor and richness.
• Mediterranean Cabbage Burgers: Add chopped Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and dried oregano to the mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
• Asian-Inspired Cabbage Burgers: Add grated ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the mixture for an Asian-inspired flavor. Consider serving these with a side of Egg Roll In A Bowl for a complete meal!
• Vegetarian Cabbage Burgers: Substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu. You may also need to add more breadcrumbs to bind the mixture together.

Serving Suggestions and Topping Ideas

Now that you’ve made your delicious Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers, it’s time to serve them up! Here are some serving suggestions and topping ideas to take your burgers to the next level:

• Classic Burger Toppings: Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise are always a good choice.
• Gourmet Burger Toppings: Avocado, bacon, fried egg, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, and blue cheese dressing are all fantastic options.
• Sauces and Spreads: Pesto, hummus, tzatziki sauce, sriracha mayo, and chipotle mayo are all great ways to add flavor to your burgers.
• Sides: Serve your cabbage burgers with a side of sweet potato fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad. If you’re looking for a quicker side dish, consider Sheet Pan Sausage Veggies.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

These Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers are perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time. Here’s how to store them:

• Uncooked Patties: You can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
• Cooked Burgers: Cooked burgers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the burgers for longer storage. Wrap the patties individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

• Oven: Reheat the burgers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Reheat the burgers in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
• Skillet: Reheat the burgers in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until heated through.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best recipes, things can sometimes go awry. Here are some common issues you might encounter when making cabbage burgers and how to fix them:

• Burgers are too dry: If your burgers are too dry, try adding a little more egg or milk to the mixture. You can also add some grated zucchini or shredded carrots to increase the moisture content.
• Burgers are too soggy: If your burgers are too soggy, make sure you’ve squeezed out as much moisture as possible from the cabbage. You can also add more breadcrumbs to the mixture to absorb excess moisture.
• Burgers are falling apart: If your burgers are falling apart, try adding more egg or breadcrumbs to the mixture. You can also let the patties rest in the refrigerator for a longer period of time before baking. Sometimes, the texture of ground meat itself can cause issues — if that’s the case, consider using the mixture as a filling for something like Taco Casserole Recipe.
• Burgers are burning: If your burgers are burning, lower the oven temperature and bake them for a longer period of time. You can also cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil to prevent the burgers from browning too quickly.
• Burgers are bland: If your burgers are bland, add more seasonings to the mixture. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.

The Health Benefits of Cabbage

Beyond their delicious flavor, cabbage burgers offer a range of health benefits, thanks to the nutritional power of cabbage itself. Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable that’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here are some of the key health benefits of cabbage:

• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, and folate. It also contains minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
• High in fiber: Cabbage is a good source of dietary fiber, which can help to promote healthy digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and lower cholesterol.
• Antioxidant properties: Cabbage contains antioxidants like sulforaphane and anthocyanins, which can help to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: Cabbage contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.
• May help to lower cholesterol: Studies have shown that cabbage consumption may help to lower cholesterol levels.
• May help to prevent cancer: Some studies have suggested that cabbage consumption may help to prevent certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer and breast cancer.

Other Ground Meat Recipes to Try

If you’re a fan of ground meat recipes, here are a few other delicious options to try:

• Salisbury Steak Recipe: A classic comfort food dish made with ground beef patties simmered in a savory mushroom gravy.
• Baked Ground Beef Tacos: A fun and easy way to enjoy tacos. Simply fill taco shells with seasoned ground beef and bake until crispy.

Conclusion

So there you have it – my foolproof recipe for Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers! I hope you’ll give them a try and discover how delicious and easy they are to make. They’re a healthy, flavorful, and budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love. Remember to experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own signature cabbage burger. Happy cooking, my friend, and I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers

These oven-baked cabbage burgers offer a healthy and flavorful twist on a classic burger. Packed with vitamins and fiber from the cabbage, these burgers are easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings, making them perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 pound ground meat beef, turkey, or chicken
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• Burger buns
• Toppings of choice lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, avocado, bacon, fried egg, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, blue cheese dressing, etc.

Equipment

• Large bowl
• large skillet
• baking sheet
• parchment paper
• measuring cups and spoons
• knife
• cutting board
• Meat Thermometer
• spatula

Method

 

1. Finely shred the cabbage and massage it with a little salt. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil or butter until softened and fragrant (5-7 minutes). Let it cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the squeezed cabbage, sautéed onion and garlic, ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Mix until just combined.
4. Shape the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned, and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for ground beef, 165°F (74°C) for ground turkey or chicken.
7. Serve on burger buns with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Don’t skip squeezing the cabbage to remove excess moisture. Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for a light and crispy texture. Don’t overmix the mixture to avoid tough burgers. Let the patties rest in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before baking to help them firm up. For spicy cabbage burgers, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce. For cheesy cabbage burgers, add shredded cheese. Uncooked patties can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cooked burgers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven, microwave, or skillet.