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Oven Baked High Protein Cabbage Burgers

Roasted cabbage steaks topped with seasoned beef patties and melted cheese for a satisfying low-carb burger alternative.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 425

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head green cabbage sliced into 1-inch thick steaks
  • 1 lb ground beef or 50/50 beef and pork blend
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for brushing
  • 1 tsp garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup green onions chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or sugar-free ketchup
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese divided

Equipment

  • Large rimmed baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • large mixing bowl
  • Sharp chef's knife
  • pastry brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice cabbage into 1-inch thick steaks, cutting through the core to hold layers together. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Brush cabbage steaks with olive oil on both sides and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Roast cabbage for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
  5. While cabbage roasts, combine ground beef, minced garlic, green onions, parsley, red pepper flakes, half of the cheese (about 3/4 cup), salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined.
  6. Divide meat mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties matching the size of your cabbage steaks. Make them slightly thinner in the center.
  7. Remove cabbage from oven. Spread 1 tablespoon of tomato sauce onto each cabbage slice.
  8. Place one beef patty on top of each sauced cabbage slice.
  9. Return to oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until beef reaches 160°F internal temperature.
  10. During the last 2 minutes of baking, sprinkle remaining cheese over each patty and bake until melted and bubbly.
  11. Remove from oven and let rest 2-3 minutes. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer to maintain texture.
Substitutions: Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef; ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
Make-Ahead: Prep meat mixture and slice cabbage up to 1 day ahead. Store separately and assemble when ready to bake.
Serving: Top with traditional burger toppings like pickles, onions, mustard, or extra cheese for a fully loaded experience.