Name: cabbage steaks Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head green cabbage (Approximately 2-3 pounds); 4 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe

If you have never tried cabbage steaks, you are in for a real treat that brings a whole new level of flavor and texture to this humble vegetable. These cabbage steaks are thick, hearty slices of cabbage that roast or grill to tender, caramelized perfection while soaking up a beautiful blend of olive oil, garlic, and paprika. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying vegetarian main or a stunning side dish that delights the senses, these cabbage steaks combine simplicity with a bold, savory taste that turns a basic veggie into a star of the meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these cabbage steaks lies in their pure simplicity—just a handful of well-chosen ingredients that each add crucial texture, color, or flavor to this irresistible dish.

1 medium head green cabbage: Around 2-3 pounds, providing thick, sturdy slices perfect for grilling or roasting.
4 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the seasonings stick and creates a golden, crispy exterior.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a deep, savory aroma that complements the cabbage’s natural sweetness.
1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild smoky kick and vibrant color to those crispy edges.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the wonderful flavors in the cabbage.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle heat to balance the mildness of the cabbage.
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a nutty, salty crust that’s hard to resist when sprinkled on top.
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Provides a fresh, herbal finish that brightens each bite.

How to Make cabbage steaks

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven or Grill

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re roasting, or warm up your grill to medium heat for grilling. This ensures your cabbage steaks start cooking in a hot environment, crucial for achieving those beautifully caramelized edges.

Step 2: Clean and Slice the Cabbage

Rinse the cabbage under cool running water to wash away any dirt. Remove any damaged or wilted outer leaves to reveal crisp, fresh layers underneath. Then, place the cabbage on a cutting board and carefully slice it into thick, 1-inch slabs—the perfect thickness to hold together during cooking and to get a satisfying bite.

Step 3: Season Generously

Lay your cabbage steaks out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if roasting—this makes cleanup a breeze. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Brush each slice generously with this flavorful mixture, making sure every bit is well-coated to guarantee maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Add Cheese if Desired

If you’re a fan of parmesan, sprinkle half a cup of grated cheese over your coated cabbage steaks. This step is optional but highly recommended, as it melts and crisps up during cooking to create a wonderful savory crust.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Roast the cabbage steaks in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes or grill them for 8 to 10 minutes on each side. Keep an eye out for tender, slightly browned, and caramelized edges—this is the hallmark of perfectly cooked cabbage steaks that burst with deep, roasted flavor.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the cabbage steaks from your heat source and let them cool for a couple of minutes. This brief resting time allows the flavors to settle and makes the steaks easier to handle before plating.

How to Serve cabbage steaks

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a timeless choice for garnish, adding a bright pop of color and a light herbal note that balances the umami from the seasoning and parmesan. Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like chives or thyme for a unique twist that complements the cabbage steaks beautifully.

Side Dishes

Cabbage steaks work wonderfully alongside a variety of sides. Pair them with roasted potatoes, a creamy polenta, or even quinoa salad for a balanced, wholesome meal. They’re fantastic on a plate with grilled meats or fish, too, adding a nutritious and flavor-packed green element that holds its own.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or something a little special, try stacking a few cabbage steaks like a savory veggie tower topped with dollops of garlic yogurt or tahini sauce. You could also chop them after cooking and toss with toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and vinaigrette for a warm cabbage salad that is a real showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, simply transfer the cooled cabbage steaks into an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They stay delicious for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or as an easy side you can reheat.

Freezing

While cabbage steaks freeze best without the parmesan topping to maintain texture, you can freeze them by placing the cooled steaks on a baking sheet to flash freeze first. Once solid, stack them with parchment paper in between and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat your cabbage steaks gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving to keep that lovely texture intact. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

FAQs

What are cabbage steaks?

Cabbage steaks are thick, sliced pieces of cabbage that are roasted or grilled to achieve a tender, caramelized texture, often seasoned with olive oil and spices to enhance their natural sweetness and depth.

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

Absolutely! Red cabbage works beautifully for cabbage steaks and offers a slightly earthier flavor and vibrant color, which can make your dish look even more stunning on the plate.

Do I have to add parmesan cheese?

No, parmesan is entirely optional but recommended if you love a crispy, savory crust. If you avoid dairy, the steaks are still delicious without it.

Can I cook cabbage steaks on a grill pan?

Yes! A grill pan is perfect if you want those lovely char marks but don’t have access to an outdoor grill. Just make sure it’s preheated well and brush the pan with oil to prevent sticking.

How do I know when my cabbage steaks are done?

You’ll want them tender when poked with a fork and showing caramelized, golden edges. They should be cooked through but still hold their shape well, usually after about 20-25 minutes in the oven or 8-10 minutes per side on the grill.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve made these cabbage steaks, you’ll see how such a simple vegetable can be transformed into something truly spectacular. Their crispy, flavorful edges and tender centers are endlessly satisfying and surprisingly versatile, perfect for any meal. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do—happy cooking and savor every delicious bite!

cabbage steaks Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 29 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious and easy-to-make cabbage steaks roasted or grilled to perfection with a flavorful blend of garlic, paprika, and olive oil. Optional parmesan cheese adds a savory finish, while fresh parsley garnish provides a touch of freshness. This is a healthy and satisfying side dish suitable for vegetarian and gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 medium head green cabbage (Approximately 2–3 pounds)
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Ingredients

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat Oven or Grill: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or if grilling, preheat the grill to medium heat to ensure the cabbage steaks cook evenly and develop a nice caramelization.
Prepare Cabbage: Rinse the cabbage thoroughly under cool water and remove any damaged or wilted outer leaves to have a clean and fresh base.
Slice Cabbage Steaks: Place the cabbage on a cutting board and, using a sharp knife, carefully slice it into 1-inch thick steaks ensuring the core holds the layers together.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Lay the cabbage steaks flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful oil mixture.
Coat Cabbage Steaks: Brush or spoon the oil mixture generously over each cabbage steak until well-coated for maximum flavor.
Add Parmesan (Optional): If using parmesan cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the cabbage steaks to add a savory, cheesy crust during roasting.
Cook Cabbage Steaks: Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or grill for about 8-10 minutes on each side, until tender and caramelized along the edges.
Cool Slightly: Remove the cooked cabbage steaks from heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes to allow flavors to settle.
Serve: Serve the steaks warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

For a vegan version, omit the parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Use a sharp knife to prevent the cabbage from falling apart while slicing.
Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more or less salt and spices as preferred.
To add extra flavor, you can drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the steaks before serving.
If grilling, keep an eye on the cabbage steaks to prevent burning due to high direct heat.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting or Grilling
Cuisine: American