Why You’ll Love Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
Roasted cabbage steaks are the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. The high-heat roasting method transforms cabbage into something extraordinary, with crispy, caramelized edges and a buttery-soft center. Garlic and herbs add depth and aroma, making each bite satisfying and savory. It’s a great side dish for almost any meal and fits seamlessly into various diets like vegan, gluten-free, paleo, keto, and more.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 large head of green cabbage
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Remove any loose or damaged outer leaves from the cabbage.
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Slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick rounds (steaks), keeping the core intact to help them hold together.
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In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Place the cabbage steaks on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides generously with the garlic-herb oil mixture.
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Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are crispy and browned, and the centers are tender.
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Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve warm with lemon wedges if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 120 kcal per serving
Variations
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Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the oil mixture.
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Cheesy twist: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast before roasting.
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Balsamic glaze: Drizzle with a balsamic reduction after roasting for tangy-sweet depth.
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Different herbs: Try rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning in place of thyme.
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Asian-inspired: Replace olive oil with sesame oil and season with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover cabbage steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
FAQs
How do I keep the cabbage steaks from falling apart?
Keep the core intact when slicing the cabbage into steaks; it helps hold the layers together during roasting.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook them in batches at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Do I need to boil the cabbage first?
No, roasting raw cabbage creates a better texture and enhances its natural sweetness.
Can I use red cabbage instead?
Yes, red cabbage works as well, but it may not get as caramelized and will have a slightly different flavor.
What’s the best way to cut cabbage into steaks?
Cut straight through the center from top to base into 1-inch thick slices, keeping the core intact to help them stay whole.
Are these freezer-friendly?
They’re best fresh, but you can freeze them. Reheat in the oven for best results, as microwaving may affect texture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and season the cabbage steaks in advance, then roast them just before serving.
What can I serve with cabbage steaks?
They pair well with roasted meats, plant-based proteins, or grains like quinoa and rice.
How do I make this oil-free?
You can roast them with vegetable broth or aquafaba for a low-fat version, though they won’t be as crispy.
Why are my cabbage steaks burning?
Check your oven temperature and don’t slice them too thin. Flipping halfway also helps prevent burning.
Conclusion
Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Garlic and Herbs are a flavor-packed, healthy, and versatile side dish that will surprise you with how delicious simple ingredients can be. Perfectly seasoned and roasted to golden perfection, they’ll win over veggie lovers and skeptics alike. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving them fresh out of the oven, these cabbage steaks are a guaranteed hit.

Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Garlic and Herbs
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- Author: Mia
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Thick slices of cabbage roasted until golden and tender, infused with olive oil, garlic, and aromatic herbs. A simple, healthy side dish that’s crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft on the inside.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove any loose or damaged outer leaves from the cabbage.
- Slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick rounds (steaks), keeping the core intact so they hold together.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the cabbage steaks on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each side generously with the garlic-herb oil mixture.
- Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are crispy and browned, and the center is tender.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve warm, with optional lemon wedges for brightness.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Use red cabbage for a colorful twist.
- These are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cabbage steak
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg