Roasted Cabbage Steaks are a simple and tasty way to enjoy cabbage with a new twist. Thick slices of cabbage are brushed with olive oil, sprinkled with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, and then roasted until they get those delicious crispy edges and a tender inside. The natural sweetness of the cabbage comes out during roasting, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
I love making these because they feel special but are actually super easy to put together. It’s one of those side dishes that looks impressive but won’t keep you in the kitchen for long. Sometimes I add a little garlic or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top before roasting, which takes the flavor up a notch. You can really tailor it to whatever you’re in the mood for.
My favorite way to serve Roasted Cabbage Steaks is alongside roasted chicken or fish, but they also work great as part of a vegetarian meal. They hold up well on a plate and make a nice change from the usual steamed veggies. Whenever I make these, people always comment on how tasty and different they are, so it’s become a go-to when I want something quick, healthy, and comforting.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is perfect for roasting because it holds up well and gets tender inside. If you don’t have green cabbage, try savoy or napa cabbage for a milder flavor and softer texture.
Olive Oil: This helps the cabbage caramelize and adds richness. You can swap it with avocado oil or melted butter for a different taste. Just make sure to use a good amount for crisp edges.
Thyme: Thyme brings a gentle herbal note. If you don’t have thyme, oregano, rosemary, or even dried Italian seasoning works well too.
Salt and Pepper: These simple seasonings highlight the cabbage’s natural sweetness. Feel free to add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a mild kick.
Garlic (Optional): Adding minced garlic boosts aroma and flavor. If you want to avoid raw garlic bits, infuse garlic into the oil before brushing the cabbage.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy and Tender Roasted Cabbage Steaks?
Roasting cabbage needs a balance between crispy edges and a tender center. Here’s how I do it:
- Slice Evenly: Cut cabbage into ¾ to 1-inch thick steaks to ensure they cook evenly without falling apart.
- Coat Well: Brush olive oil generously on both sides. This helps with browning and prevents drying.
- Flip Halfway: Roast the steaks about 25-30 minutes, flipping after 15 minutes to brown both sides nicely.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give each steak room on the baking sheet so hot air can circulate for even roasting.
- Check Doneness: The cabbage should be tender when pierced with a fork but still hold its shape.
These simple steps help you get flavorful cabbage steaks with crispy, browned edges and a juicy, soft inside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend a rimmed sheet so the cabbage steaks don’t slide off.
- Parchment paper or lightly greased foil – makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
- Sharp knife – needed to cut the cabbage evenly without slipping.
- Measuring spoons – to accurately measure oil, salt, and herbs.
- Brush – for spreading olive oil evenly on the steaks.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Spice it up with paprika, cumin, or chili flakes for a smoky or spicy flavor.
- Top with crumbled feta or grated parmesan after roasting for a salty, cheesy finish.
- Add sliced red pepper, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet for extra veggies.
- Finish with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for brightness and tang.
Roasted Cabbage Steaks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme sprigs)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to roast. So in less than 45 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful, crispy, and tender cabbage dish ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Cabbage:
Remove any loose or damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Then slice the cabbage into thick rounds, about ¾ to 1 inch thick, which are your “steaks.” You should get around 4-6 steaks depending on the size of your cabbage.
3. Season the Cabbage Steaks:
Place the cabbage steaks carefully on the baking sheet. Brush both sides of each steak generously with olive oil. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and thyme evenly over both sides. If you want to use garlic, either add the minced garlic directly on top or mix it into the olive oil before brushing.
4. Roast the Cabbage Steaks:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Be sure to flip the steaks halfway through the cooking time so they brown evenly. The edges should become crispy and brown, and the center should be tender.
5. Finish and Serve:
If you like, drizzle balsamic vinegar or lemon juice over the cabbage steaks right before serving to add a bright, fresh touch. Serve warm as a tasty side dish or a vegetarian main course.
Enjoy the lovely caramelized flavor, crispy edges, and juicy center of your Roasted Cabbage Steaks!
Can I Use Other Types of Cabbage for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While green cabbage works best for roasting, you can use savoy or napa cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as some varieties cook faster.
How Should I Store Leftover Roasted Cabbage Steaks?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the steaks tender and avoid drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to Roast Alongside the Cabbage?
Yes! Feel free to roast sliced root vegetables like carrots or potatoes, or softer veggies like bell peppers and cherry tomatoes alongside the cabbage. Just cut them to similar sizes and keep an eye on cooking times.
Is There a Good Way to Make This Recipe Vegan or Dairy-Free?
This recipe is naturally vegan and dairy-free as written. If adding cheese toppings, simply omit or use a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.
