Oven-Roasted Purple Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan

Oven-Roasted Purple Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan are a vibrant, savory addition to any meal. Sliced into thick rounds, the cabbage is roasted until caramelized at the edges and tender in the center, then topped with melted parmesan for a crispy, golden finish. This simple recipe transforms humble cabbage into a flavorful, hearty side dish—or even a satisfying vegetarian main—that’s both healthy and visually striking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually stunning with bold purple hues and golden cheese
• Crisp edges with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center
• Easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients
• Naturally gluten-free and low-carb
• A perfect way to enjoy more vegetables in your diet
• Can serve as a side dish or a vegetarian main course
• Roasting brings out a rich, caramelized flavor
• Topped with parmesan for savory depth and texture
• Pairs well with a variety of proteins or grains
• An excellent alternative to traditional roasted vegetables

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

purple cabbage
olive oil
garlic powder
smoked paprika
salt and black pepper
freshly grated parmesan cheese
fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick rounds to form “steaks.” Leave the core intact to help each slice hold together.
3. Arrange the cabbage steaks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle each slice with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are crisp and the cabbage is tender.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the parmesan cheese evenly over each cabbage steak.
7. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and slightly crisped.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegan Version: Omit the parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.
• Extra Crisp: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra golden tops.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for heat.
• Herb Blend: Use Italian seasoning or thyme instead of parsley.
• Lemon Zest: Add zest over the top before serving for brightness.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle with balsamic reduction after roasting.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts before serving.
• Asian-Inspired: Swap parmesan for sesame seeds and use sesame oil.
• Roasted Garlic Topping: Add minced roasted garlic for richer flavor.
• Double Cheese: Mix mozzarella or gruyère with the parmesan for extra melt.

storage/reheating

To store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to retain texture.
To freeze: Not recommended, as roasted cabbage may become soggy when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use green cabbage instead?

Yes, green cabbage works just as well, though it may not be as visually striking as purple cabbage.

How do I keep the steaks from falling apart?

Cut through the core and keep a section of it attached to help the slices stay intact during roasting.

Is parmesan the only cheese that works?

No, you can use any hard, grated cheese like pecorino, gruyère, or a blend of mozzarella and parmesan.

Do I need to flip the cabbage steaks?

Flipping helps achieve even caramelization on both sides, but it can be skipped if you prefer a softer center.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, roast the cabbage and reheat with cheese just before serving for the best texture.

What pairs well with this dish?

It’s excellent with roasted chicken, baked tofu, lentils, quinoa, or as a side to grilled meats.

How thick should the slices be?

About 1 inch thick provides the best texture balance—thicker slices may take longer to roast.

Can I air fry these?

Yes, you can air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, adding cheese in the final few minutes.

Do I need to peel off outer cabbage leaves?

Remove any wilted or tough outer leaves before slicing for better results.

Is this keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is low in carbs and suitable for a ketogenic diet.

Conclusion

Oven-Roasted Purple Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan are a flavorful, nutritious, and visually stunning way to bring vegetables to the forefront of your meal. With crispy edges, savory seasoning, and gooey parmesan, they strike the perfect balance of comfort and freshness. Whether served as a hearty side or a plant-forward main, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking simplicity with elegance in their cooking.

Oven-Roasted Purple Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan

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Turn simple cabbage into a stunning side with these Oven-Roasted Purple Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan—crispy on the edges, tender in the middle, and topped with golden, melty cheese and herbs. This easy, low-carb dish is perfect as a hearty vegetarian main or colorful, flavorful side.

• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Side Dish / Vegetarian
• Method: Roasted
• Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-Inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 large head of purple cabbage

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prep Cabbage:
   Remove any loose outer leaves. Slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick rounds, keeping the core intact so the steaks hold together.

3. Season & Roast:
   Place cabbage slices on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping once, until edges are browned and centers are tender.

4. Add Parmesan:
   Sprinkle grated parmesan over each cabbage steak. Return to oven for 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.

5. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm as a main or side dish.

Notes

• Great with a squeeze of lemon juice or drizzle of balsamic glaze for brightness.

• For a vegan option, sub with dairy-free parmesan or nutritional yeast.

• Use green cabbage for a milder flavor variation.