Name: Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 large head cabbage; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter ((or vegan butter for a plant-based option)); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Ever thought cabbage could be the star of your plate? If you’ve only ever known it as a sidekick in coleslaw or a hearty soup ingredient, prepare to have your mind (and taste buds!) blown. Forget everything you thought you knew about this humble cruciferous veggie, because we’re about to transform it into something truly spectacular: Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks. Imagine tender, flavorful cabbage, caramelized and kissed with garlic, boasting irresistibly crispy edges. It’s shockingly simple, incredibly delicious, and about to become your new favorite way to eat your greens. Get ready for a veggie revelation that’s healthy, satisfying, and ridiculously easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unbelievably Delicious: Say goodbye to bland vegetables! These Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks caramelize in the oven, developing a sweet, savory depth perfectly complemented by the aromatic garlic and buttery richness.
Seriously Simple & Quick: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have these flavorful steaks on your table in under 35 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick, healthy side.
Healthy & Wholesome: Cabbage is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins and fiber. This recipe offers a low-carb, low-calorie, and nutrient-dense option that supports a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
Budget-Friendly: Cabbage is an incredibly affordable vegetable, making this recipe a fantastic choice for stretching your grocery budget while still enjoying a gourmet-tasting dish.

Ingredients (with measurements)

🥬 1 large head of cabbage
🫒 1 tablespoon olive oil
🧈 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or vegan butter for a plant-based option)
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
🧂 1/2 teaspoon salt
⚫ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Detailed Step-by-Step Directions on How to Make the Recipe

Preheat & Prepare: First things first, fire up your oven! Preheat it to a steady 350°F (180°C). While it’s getting to temperature, grab a large baking sheet and line it generously with parchment paper. This little trick is your secret weapon for effortless cleanup later – you’ll thank yourself!
Craft Your Flavorful Butter: In a small, eager bowl, combine the glossy olive oil, the liquid gold of melted butter (or its vegan counterpart), and your fragrant minced garlic. Whisk these ingredients vigorously until they’re beautifully emulsified and ready to impart their magic. This simple blend is the heart of your incredible Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks!
Prep Your Cabbage Steaks: Carefully place your large head of cabbage on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, slice it lengthwise into thick, generous 1-inch ‘steaks’. Make sure to keep the core intact on each slice where possible, as this helps hold the ‘steaks’ together during baking. Gently remove and discard any overly loose or damaged outer leaves. Arrange your lovely cabbage slices in a single, uncrowded layer on your prepared baking sheet.
Season Up for Success: Now for the delicious part! With a pastry brush, generously coat the tops of each individual cabbage ‘steak’ with your aromatic garlic butter mixture. Don’t be shy – every inch deserves that glorious flavor! Once brushed, evenly sprinkle them with salt and black pepper. Feel free to add a little more if you like extra seasoning.
Bake to Perfection: Gently slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven. Let the magic happen for about 25-30 minutes. Keep a watchful eye on them; you’re looking for those gorgeous, golden-brown edges and a tender-crisp texture that signifies perfection. Once they reach this stage, carefully remove them from the oven. Serve immediately and get ready to enjoy your healthy, flavorful, and wonderfully crispy garlic cabbage steaks!

Detailed Different Ways You Can Present the Recipe and How to Serve It

These Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks are incredibly versatile! They can shine as a show-stopping main dish or play a fantastic supporting role. For an elegant presentation, arrange 2-3 steaks artfully on a plate. A sprinkle of fresh, vibrant herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or a scattering of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat can really elevate their appeal. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens all the flavors and adds a zesty finish.

As a main course, pair them with a side of fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a complete vegetarian meal. You could also serve them alongside a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or a tangy vegan aioli for dipping. If you’re looking to add protein, they’re excellent with grilled chicken, baked salmon, or even crispy tofu. As a side dish, they complement virtually any protein – from a juicy steak to a simple roasted chicken. Don’t forget, they also make a surprisingly addictive appetizer for a healthy snack option!

How You Can Store It and How Long Does It Last

While Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks are absolutely best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, any leftovers can be stored. Allow them to cool completely to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, the crispiness might diminish slightly, but the flavor will still be fantastic. To revive some of the texture, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or in an air fryer for a few minutes, until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave if you want to retain any crispiness, as this tends to make them softer.

FAQs

Can I use purple cabbage instead of green? Absolutely! Purple cabbage works just as well and adds a vibrant pop of color to your Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks.
How do I ensure my cabbage gets extra crispy? For maximum crispiness, make sure your oven is fully preheated, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet (give each steak space!), and consider baking for an extra 5-10 minutes until deeply golden.
Can I add other seasonings to the garlic butter? Yes! Feel free to experiment with a pinch of paprika, onion powder, a dash of cayenne for heat, or even some dried herbs like oregano or thyme.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet? Yes, simply substitute the unsalted butter with an equal amount of vegan butter to make these Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks entirely plant-based.
What’s the best way to cut the cabbage steaks? Slice the cabbage head lengthwise from top to bottom, aiming for 1-inch thick slices. Try to keep a bit of the core intact on each slice to help hold them together.
Can I grill these cabbage steaks? While designed for oven baking, you could grill them! Brush with the garlic butter and grill over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, until tender and charred.
What if my cabbage steaks aren’t tender after 30 minutes? Cabbage density can vary. If they’re not tender-crisp, simply return them to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, checking periodically.
Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time? Yes, you can whisk together the garlic butter mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Bring it to room temperature before using.
Is this recipe low-carb/keto-friendly? Yes, cabbage is naturally low in carbohydrates, making these Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks an excellent option for low-carb and keto diets.
Can I use a different type of oil? You can substitute olive oil with another high-heat cooking oil like avocado oil if preferred, though olive oil adds a lovely flavor.