Cabbage Burgers with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Cabbage burgers offer a unique twist on a classic favorite by using cabbage slices instead of traditional buns. This light and flavorful recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a delicious burger while cutting down on carbs. It’s easy to prepare and customizable to suit your taste.

Ingredients
- 1 small head Cabbage (cut into thick slices)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for brushing)
- 1 pound Ground Beef or Turkey (or ground chicken or plant-based options)
- 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 large Egg (optional, for binding)
- 1 cup Cheese (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Slice the small head of cabbage into thick ½ inch slices. Brush both sides of each slice generously with olive oil.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and add the egg if using.
- Step 4: Shape the meat mixture into patties that fit on the cabbage slices. Place each patty on top of a cabbage slice.
- Step 5: Arrange the cabbage burgers on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the patties are fully cooked.
- Step 6: If desired, sprinkle cheese on top of each patty and broil for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like.
Tips & Variations
- Use ground chicken, plant-based meat alternatives, or turkey as a lighter option.
- Add finely chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro into the meat mixture for extra flavor.
- Swap smoked paprika with your favorite spices such as cumin or chili powder for a different taste.
- For a crispier cabbage base, grill the cabbage slices briefly before assembling the burgers.
- If you want to keep this dish dairy-free, omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute.
Storage
Store leftover cabbage burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven until warmed through. For best texture, avoid reheating the cabbage slices too long to prevent them from becoming soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare cabbage burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the patties and cabbage slices a day ahead. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving for the best freshness.
Are cabbage burgers gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses cabbage slices instead of traditional buns. Just ensure any added sauces or Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free if needed.
PrintCabbage Burgers with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe
These delicious Cabbage Burgers offer a unique twist on traditional burgers by using thick cabbage slices as the base instead of buns. Perfectly seasoned ground meat patties are baked atop tender cabbage rounds, making for a healthier, low-carb alternative that’s flavorful and satisfying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Base
- 1 small head Cabbage (cut into thick ½ inch slices)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for brushing)
For the Burger Patties
- 1 pound Ground Beef or Turkey (or ground chicken or plant-based alternatives)
- 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 large Egg (optional, for binding)
- 1 cup Cheese (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the burgers.
- Prepare Cabbage Slices: Slice the small head of cabbage into thick ½ inch slices, ensuring they hold together well, then brush both sides generously with olive oil to help them roast and develop flavor.
- Mix Patty Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey with the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning. Add the egg if using, to help bind the mixture.
- Form Patties onto Cabbage: Shape the meat mixture into patties sized to match the cabbage slices, then place each patty on top of a cabbage slice, creating an open-faced burger.
- Bake the Burgers: Place the cabbage and patties on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
- Add Cheese and Broil: If desired, sprinkle cheese over the patties and switch your oven to broil. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley if using, and serve warm for a tasty and nutritious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives according to preference.
- Using an egg is optional but helps the patties hold together better.
- Adjust seasoning quantities as needed depending on taste and dietary preferences.
- For extra flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the meat mixture.
- Leftover cabbage slices can be stored in the refrigerator and used in salads or stir-fries.
Keywords: cabbage burgers, low carb burger, baked burgers, healthy burger recipe, ground beef recipe, cabbage recipe

