Transform cabbage into a savory, crispy delight with this oven roasted garlic cabbage steaks recipe. With just a few kitchen staples and simple prep, thick cabbage slices become beautifully golden and flavorful. This plant-based dish offers a wonderful balance of texture—crispy outer edges and soft, tender centers—with a bold, garlicky seasoning you’ll crave again and again.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a vegetarian main course, this recipe is quick, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for family meals or to add something unexpected to your usual dinner rotation.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish stands out for its incredible texture and flavor. The cabbage caramelizes as it roasts, offering crispy edges that contrast beautifully with the soft interior. The spice blend highlights garlic and smoky notes that enhance the natural sweetness of the vegetable. It’s quick to make, customizable, and aligns with many dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free lifestyles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 large cabbage, green or red
Green cabbage is sturdier and holds its shape well while roasting. Red cabbage adds vibrant color and a slightly different flavor but may soften more quickly.
3 tablespoons olive oil
This helps achieve a crisp texture and carries the seasoning across the entire surface. Melted butter can be used for a richer version if desired.
1 teaspoon garlic powder
A concentrated flavor booster that infuses the dish with deep, savory notes.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Adds color and a hint of smokiness that enhances the roasted flavor.
½ teaspoon onion powder
Mildly sweet and aromatic, it adds complexity to the garlic seasoning.
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Brings an herby, slightly floral flavor that pairs well with cabbage.
1 teaspoon salt
Essential for flavor development and drawing out moisture from the cabbage to promote crisping.
½ teaspoon black pepper
Gives the dish a balanced finish with just a bit of warmth.
Optional Garnishes:
Add shredded Parmesan, chili flakes, or fresh parsley for more flavor and visual appeal.
How to Make Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks
The process is straightforward and doesn’t require special tools. Cabbage is cut into thick, round slices and brushed with a flavorful oil-based seasoning. The oven’s high heat does most of the work, producing a crispy, roasted exterior and a tender center.
Start by removing any damaged leaves and slicing the cabbage into rounds. Mix the spices with olive oil, then coat both sides of each slice. Roast the cabbage until it’s deeply golden and fragrant. The core of the cabbage helps hold the rounds together during cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
Step 2: Cut the cabbage
Discard any loose or wilted leaves. Wash and dry the cabbage, then slice it into ¾-inch thick rounds. Leave the core intact to help each slice remain whole.
Step 3: Mix the seasoning blend
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Apply the seasoning
Lay the cabbage slices flat on the baking sheet in a single layer. Brush the seasoning mixture generously over both sides of each slice.
Step 5: Roast the cabbage steaks
Place the tray in the oven and roast for about 15 minutes. Carefully flip each cabbage round, then roast for another 10 to 15 minutes until the edges are crisp and the center is tender.
Step 6: Finish and serve
Once roasted, you can add optional toppings like parsley, Parmesan, or chili flakes. Serve hot and enjoy the contrast of textures and bold flavors.
Helpful Tips
For evenly crispy results, make sure not to overcrowd your baking sheet. Each slice should have enough space for air to circulate. Use a sharp knife for clean, uniform slices. Always flip the steaks halfway through the roasting process to get that golden crust on both sides. Reheat leftovers in the oven to maintain the crispy texture. While these are best fresh, they can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
Details
Flavor: Garlicky, slightly smoky, and savory
Texture: Crunchy edges with a soft center
Occasion: Easy weeknight side dish or plant-based entrée
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Method: Roasting
Diet: Vegan
Notes (Optional Variations or Substitutions)
Feel free to experiment with seasonings. A dash of lemon juice after roasting adds brightness. For a spicy variation, include cayenne or chili powder in the oil mix. You can also use ghee or avocado oil instead of olive oil for different flavor profiles. If you’re not vegan, Parmesan or crumbled feta makes a nice finishing touch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
Frequently Asked Questions
How thick should cabbage steaks be cut for roasting?
Cabbage should be sliced into rounds that are about ¾ inch thick. This allows them to roast evenly without falling apart or becoming too soft.
How do you keep cabbage steaks from getting soggy in the oven?
Give each piece enough room on the baking sheet. Roasting at a high temperature and flipping them halfway through helps develop crisp edges instead of steaming.
What seasonings pair best with roasted garlic cabbage?
Spices like smoked paprika, garlic, thyme, cumin, and pepper all pair beautifully with the natural sweetness of roasted cabbage.
Can cabbage steaks be made crispy in the oven?
Absolutely. Proper slicing, a hot oven, and a light coating of oil are the keys to crispy cabbage steaks. Make sure to roast both sides evenly.
Storage Instructions
Cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes to bring back the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the edges. This recipe isn’t ideal for freezing.
Print
Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks | Crispy, Easy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Oven roasted garlic cabbage steaks are crispy on the edges, tender in the center, and loaded with savory seasoning. A simple, vegan, and satisfying vegetable dish.
Ingredients
1 large green or red cabbage
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet.
2. Cut cabbage into ¾-inch rounds, keeping the core intact.
3. Mix olive oil and all spices in a small bowl.
4. Brush mixture over both sides of each cabbage steak.
5. Place on the baking sheet with space between each.
6. Roast for 15 minutes, flip carefully, and roast another 10–15 minutes.
7. Add desired garnishes and serve hot.
Notes
Use red cabbage for color but expect a softer texture.
Add chili flakes for heat or lemon zest for brightness.
Serve with your favorite protein or enjoy as a main.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cabbage steak
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Conclusion
These oven roasted garlic cabbage steaks are a true celebration of simplicity. With just a few humble ingredients and a hot oven, you can create a dish that’s loaded with flavor, satisfying in texture, and easy to make on any night of the week. Whether you’re trying to eat more vegetables or just looking for something new, this recipe is one to bookmark and make again and again.