Roasted garlic cabbage steaks are a flavorful, crispy, and nutritious dish that comes together with minimal effort. I love how simple ingredients transform cabbage into something truly special. This recipe works great as a side dish or a light main course and can be easily adapted to suit different tastes.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe for how easy and satisfying it is. The cabbage turns beautifully golden and crispy on the edges while staying tender inside. It’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and vegan, making it perfect for almost any diet. I also appreciate that I can make it in either the oven or air fryer depending on how much time I have.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 large green or red cabbage
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3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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Optional: grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, fresh parsley
Directions
Oven Method
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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Remove any damaged outer cabbage leaves. Slice the cabbage into ¾-inch thick rounds, keeping the core intact to hold each “steak” together.
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Mix the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Brush both sides of each cabbage steak with the mixture.
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Arrange the steaks in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until edges are golden and crispy.
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Let them cool for a couple of minutes. Top with cheese, red pepper flakes, or parsley if desired, and serve.
Air Fryer Method
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Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
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Prepare the cabbage as above and brush with seasoning.
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Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
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Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Variations
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Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
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Sprinkle with Parmesan before baking for a cheesy finish.
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Use fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for extra depth.
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A dash of lemon juice or zest adds brightness to the final dish.
Storage and Reheating
I store leftover cabbage steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or air fryer for about 5–7 minutes until they’re warm and crispy again.
FAQs
How do I keep cabbage steaks from falling apart?
I make sure to slice through the core when cutting the cabbage. The core holds the leaves together while cooking.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, red cabbage works just as well. It has a slightly different flavor and brings a pop of color to the plate.
What can I serve with cabbage steaks?
I like pairing them with grilled meats, roasted fish, or plant-based mains like quinoa bowls or veggie burgers.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, I can slice and season the cabbage in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge and roast when ready to serve.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely. Cabbage is low in carbs and fits perfectly into a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
Conclusion
Roasted garlic cabbage steaks are one of those dishes I find myself making again and again. They’re easy, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether I’m cooking for myself or a crowd, these steaks always impress with their simplicity and deliciousness.

Easy Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks
- Author: Evelyn
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: roasting, Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Easy Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks are a crispy, flavorful, and healthy side dish or light main course perfect for any meal. Made with simple seasonings and oven-roasted or air-fried to golden perfection, this vegan, gluten-free, and keto-friendly recipe is a quick and nutritious option for any dietary preference. Keywords: roasted cabbage steaks, garlic cabbage, crispy cabbage, vegan cabbage recipe, keto cabbage, healthy side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 large green or red cabbage
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, fresh parsley
Instructions
- Oven Method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.
- Remove outer cabbage leaves and slice into ¾-inch thick steaks, keeping the core intact.
- Mix olive oil with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Brush both sides of each cabbage steak with the mixture.
- Place steaks on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges are golden and crispy.
- Top with optional garnishes and serve immediately.
- Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Slice and season cabbage as above.
- Place in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Notes
- Keep the core attached to help cabbage steaks hold together.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture.
- Add lemon juice, cayenne, or fresh herbs for variations.