If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and visually striking vegetable dish to add to your dinner rotation, then this Easy Roasted Cabbage Steaks Recipe is just what you need. Thick, tender cabbage slices get a vibrant coating of smoky, garlicky oil before roasting to golden perfection, delivering satisfying crisp edges paired with a melt-in-your-mouth interior. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply want to enjoy a vegetable side with bold taste and simple prep, these cabbage steaks transform humble cabbage into a star dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of everyday ingredients can create such incredible flavor and texture in this recipe. Each ingredient enhances the cabbage’s natural sweetness and adds layers of savory and smoky goodness.
- 1 large green cabbage: The sturdy base for these steaks, firm enough to slice and hold up in the oven.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the seasoning stick while promoting caramelization.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses every bite with aromatic depth and subtle pungency.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a warm, smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the cabbage’s natural taste.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity to balance the sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A touch of spice for those who like a little kick.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped): Freshens the dish with bright, herbaceous notes as a finishing touch.
How to Make Easy Roasted Cabbage Steaks Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Cabbage
First, preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for an easy cleanup. While the oven warms, remove any tough outer leaves from the cabbage—these can be too fibrous for roasting. Then slice the cabbage crosswise into thick 1-inch rounds that will become your steaks. Thick slices are key for that perfect balance between crispy edges and a tender heart.
Step 2: Arrange and Season
Place the cabbage steaks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to roast evenly. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Brush this savory mixture generously over both sides of each steak, coating them well to maximize flavor and promote even browning during roasting.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and roast the cabbage steaks for about 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the steaks halfway through cooking to encourage caramelization on both sides. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are beautifully browned and crispy, and the centers have softened to a tender, almost buttery texture. This roasting process brings out the natural sweetness and creates those irresistible crispy bits.
Step 4: Add Fresh Parsley and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh herbal flavor. And just like that, your Easy Roasted Cabbage Steaks are ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Roasted Cabbage Steaks Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate these beautiful cabbage steaks. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds brightness, or try a zest of lemon to cut through the richness. For those craving indulgence, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of roasting for an irresistible golden crust.
Side Dishes
These cabbage steaks pair wonderfully with a variety of mains and sides. Serve them alongside grilled meats like steak or chicken, or with hearty roasted root vegetables for a cozy meal. They also complement fish beautifully, or work as a standout side with grain bowls and plant-based dishes, making this recipe perfect no matter your dietary preferences.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these Easy Roasted Cabbage Steaks as a base for toppings like sautéed mushrooms, a drizzle of tahini sauce, or even melted cheese and crispy bacon bits if you’re not vegan. Layered in a bowl with grains, legumes, and roasted veggies, they become a stunning centerpiece that’s both delicious and Instagram-ready!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cabbage steaks keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store them separated with parchment paper between layers to avoid sogginess. When refrigerated properly, they maintain their flavor and texture nicely.
Freezing
While you can freeze leftover cabbage steaks, note that their crispy texture will soften after thawing. To freeze, place cooled steaks in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for a couple of hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Use within 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy edge on refrigerated or thawed cabbage steaks, reheat them in a 400°F oven or toaster oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the delightful roasted texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is classic for this recipe, you can also use savoy or red cabbage. Red cabbage adds a beautiful color but may require a slightly longer roast time to soften fully.
Is it necessary to flip the cabbage steaks while roasting?
Flipping the steaks halfway ensures even caramelization on both sides, which brings out the best flavor and texture. If you skip this step, one side might not develop those delicious crispy edges.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free and vegan?
This Easy Roasted Cabbage Steaks Recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan as written. Just skip any optional cheese toppings or replace with vegan-friendly alternatives if desired.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of ground cumin can add warmth, although the smoky note is a nice signature element of this dish.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I omit the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that you can easily adjust or omit to suit your taste. The dish will remain flavorful without the spice, making it family-friendly.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Easy Roasted Cabbage Steaks Recipe enough for anyone who loves simple, delicious vegetable dishes that don’t require fuss but make a big impression. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests who appreciate tasty, wholesome flavors. Give it a try and watch this humble cabbage become your new favorite side dish!
Print
Easy Roasted Cabbage Steaks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free, Low Carb
Description
Easy Roasted Cabbage Steaks are a simple and flavorful vegan side dish featuring thick cabbage slices brushed with a smoky garlic and paprika-infused olive oil mixture and roasted to crispy caramelized perfection. This healthy and low-carb recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains and is quick to prepare and cook.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large green cabbage
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
- Slice the Cabbage: Remove any tough outer leaves from the cabbage and slice it into 1-inch-thick rounds, also known as cabbage steaks. Arrange these steaks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make the Seasoning Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to create a flavorful brush-on seasoning.
- Brush Cabbage Steaks: Generously brush the seasoning mixture over both sides of each cabbage steak, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor and caramelization.
- Roast the Cabbage: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the cabbage steaks for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the steaks halfway through the cooking time so they brown evenly and develop crispy, caramelized edges while keeping the centers tender.
- Add Parsley and Serve: Once roasted, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the cabbage steaks before serving to add a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the cabbage steaks during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- These cabbage steaks make a perfect side dish to grilled meats, fish, or plant-based main courses.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
