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Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks

Posted on November 12, 2025.

Roasted Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks

Welcome to a truly simple yet remarkably flavorful dish that transforms humble cabbage into something extraordinary. These Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks are incredibly easy to make, offering crispy edges and a tender, buttery center. Whether roasted in the oven or grilled, they serve beautifully as a versatile side dish or a light, satisfying meal. Get ready to rediscover cabbage in a deliciously new way.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks

You’re going to adore preparing these delicious Crispy garlic cabbage steaks for so many reasons. They bring joy to your table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

  • Minimal Ingredients & Quick Prep: You only need a few pantry staples to create this impressive dish.
  • Deliciously Crispy Texture: High heat cooking ensures beautifully caramelized, crispy edges.
  • Healthy, Low-Carb Vegetable Side: It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious vegetable.
  • Extremely Versatile & Adaptable: Easily customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: From weeknight dinners to special gatherings, these fit right in.
Close-Up of Crispy Cabbage Steaks

Ingredients for Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks

Crafting these flavorful Crispy garlic cabbage steaks starts with fresh, quality ingredients. You likely have most of these on hand already!

  • 1 head green cabbage
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon garlic paste
  • 2 teaspoons fennel seeds or caraway seeds
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for optional garnish

Notes & Substitutions

For the best Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks, a firm head of green cabbage works wonderfully, but red cabbage also offers a lovely color. Feel free to swap fennel or caraway seeds with dried thyme, a pinch of onion powder, or even a touch of chili powder for a different kick. If garlic paste isn’t available, minced fresh garlic or garlic powder will do. You can also elevate the flavor further by using a good quality garlic-infused olive oil.

Equipment

Gathering your tools before you begin makes cooking seamless and enjoyable. You won’t need much for these savory cabbage steaks.

How To Make Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks

Creating perfect Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks is surprisingly simple, whether you prefer the oven’s consistent heat or the grill’s smoky char. Follow these steps carefully for tender interiors and delightfully crispy exteriors. Remember, cooking should be a joy, not a chore!

Raw Cabbage Steaks Ready
Seasoning Garlic Cabbage Steaks

Oven Roasted Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks

  1. Preheat oven to 400˚F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
  2. Prepare the cabbage. Remove any loose or damaged outer leaves from the cabbage head. Slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick disks or wedges, keeping the core intact if making wedges to hold them together.
  3. Arrange and season. Arrange the cabbage slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Brush each cabbage steak evenly with half of the olive oil, garlic paste, fennel seeds (or caraway seeds), kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
  4. Flip and season again. Carefully flip each cabbage slice. Apply the remaining oil, garlic, and spices to the other side. Ensure every piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
  5. First roast. Roast for 25 minutes. The edges of the cabbage touching the baking sheet should start to turn golden brown and slightly crispy.
  6. Flip and finish roasting. Carefully flip each cabbage steak over using a metal spatula. Roast for another 20 minutes, or until the cabbage becomes tender when pierced with a knife, and the edges are beautifully crispy. Avoid moving the slices excessively during roasting for best crisping.
  7. Serve. Serve your oven-roasted Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks warm, garnished with coarsely chopped fresh parsley if desired. Note: Leftover cabbage steaks will soften overnight, losing some crispness.

Grilled Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks

  1. Heat up the grill. Preheat your grill to a medium-high temperature, aiming for 400˚F (200°C). Close the lid to allow it to fully preheat.
  2. Prep the cabbage. Follow the initial steps for oven-roasted cabbage steaks to prep your cabbage slices. Lightly brush a perforated metal grill basket with cooking oil that has a high smoke temperature, such as avocado or safflower oil. Arrange the thick slices or wedges in the grill basket without overcrowding.
  3. Season for grilling. In a small bowl, mix the cooking oil with 1 tablespoon of garlic paste. Using a silicone basting brush, coat the top surface of the cabbage slices. Sprinkle evenly with fennel seeds, salt, and black pepper. Flip the cabbage slices and repeat the seasoning process on the other side.
  4. Grill the cabbage. Place the grill basket containing the cabbage steaks directly over the heat. Cook for 6-8 minutes on the first side.
  5. Flip and finish grilling. Using a wide metal spatula, carefully flip the grilled cabbage steaks. Cook for another 5-6 minutes. The cabbage is ready when the outer surfaces are a bit crispy and charred, and the inside is tender when a knife blade is inserted into the leaves.
  6. Serve. Serve these grilled Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks warm with your favorite toppings, such as grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of Ranch dressing, or more garlic oil.
Cabbage Steaks Roasting in the Oven

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Achieving the perfect crispy Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks is easy with a few simple tricks.

  • Slice cabbage 1 to 1.5 inches thick: Thicker slices hold together better and provide a satisfying texture.
  • Do not overcrowd baking sheet: Give each cabbage steak space for even roasting and crisping.
  • Minimize movement during roasting: Constant contact with the hot surface promotes caramelization.
  • Pre-salt for crispier results in humid areas: Salting helps draw out moisture, leading to a crispier texture.
  • Preheat baking sheet for faster crisping: Placing cabbage on an already hot sheet jumpstarts the caramelization process.
  • Keep root intact for wedges: This prevents the cabbage leaves from falling apart while cooking.

Serving Suggestions, Storage, & Variations

These versatile Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks fit seamlessly into various meals, offer convenient storage, and invite creative modifications.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with roasted chicken, pork loin, or a juicy steak for a complete meal.
  • Serve as a healthy, low-carb side dish to complement any protein.
  • Top a warm cabbage steak with a perfectly poached egg for a delightful vegetarian lunch.
  • Add chopped grilled cabbage to a vegetarian Irish stew for extra depth and texture.

Storage

  • Store leftover Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
  • Be aware that the cabbage will soften overnight and lose its initial crispiness.
  • Reheat in the oven or an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to help restore some crispness.
  • These are not ideal for freezing, as the texture changes significantly upon thawing.

Variations

  • Try using red cabbage instead of green for a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color.
  • Add a teaspoon of ginger paste to the oil mixture for an Asian-inspired twist.
  • Experiment with other spices like smoked paprika, a pinch of curry powder, or extra chili powder.
  • Substitute garlic butter for olive oil and garlic paste for an extra rich and decadent flavor.
  • Sprinkle your finished cabbage steaks with grated Parmesan cheese or a nutritional yeast for a cheesy umami boost.
Tender Garlic Cabbage Steak

Nutrition Information

Cabbage is a wonderfully nutritious and incredibly versatile vegetable, making these Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks a healthy choice. It’s naturally low in calories and carbohydrates, while being a good source of vitamins K and C, and dietary fiber. Enjoy this simple yet nourishing dish knowing you’re fueling your body well.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, cabbage offers numerous health benefits, including boosting your immune system and improving digestion.

NutrientAmount
Calories62.1 kcal
Carbohydrates7.2 g
Protein1.6 g
Fat3.6 g
Saturated Fat0.5 g
Polyunsaturated Fat0.4 g
Monounsaturated Fat2.6 g
Sodium311.5 mg
Potassium200.6 mg
Fiber2.9 g
Sugar3.7 g
Vitamin A111.4 IU
Vitamin C42.1 mg
Calcium49 mg
Iron0.6 mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I cut cabbage into steaks?

First, remove any loose outer leaves. Then, place the cabbage on a cutting board and slice it crosswise into 1 to 1.5-inch thick disks or lengthwise into wedges, ensuring the core remains intact to hold the leaves together.

How do you make roasted cabbage crispy?

For crispy roasted cabbage, slice it thickly and arrange it in a single layer on a preheated baking sheet. Use high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan, minimizing flips to allow good contact with the hot surface for caramelization.

Can I use other spices with cabbage steaks?

Absolutely! Experiment with different flavors like smoked paprika, a dash of cumin, or a touch of dried Italian herbs. This dish is very adaptable to your favorite spice blends.

What’s the best way to store leftover cabbage steaks?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. Reheat them in the oven or an air fryer to help regain some of their initial crispiness.

Can I prepare Crispy garlic cabbage steaks ahead of time?

You can slice and season the cabbage a few hours in advance, but for optimal crispness, it’s best to cook your Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks fresh. They lose some texture when prepared too far ahead.

Final Thoughts

Embrace the humble cabbage and transform it into a culinary star with these incredibly simple yet profoundly satisfying Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks. This recipe offers a delightful way to bring fresh, wholesome flavors to your table, whether you roast or grill. The crispy edges and tender heart make for a truly comforting and memorable dish. We encourage you to try them soon and create new, joyful connections around your dining table.

Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks
Dominique

Crispy Garlic Cabbage Steaks: Crispy Roasted & Grilled

These versatile garlic cabbage steaks can be either oven-roasted until golden brown and tender-crisp or grilled to perfection with a smoky char. Seasoned with olive oil, garlic paste, fennel seeds, salt, and pepper, they make a delicious and healthy side dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 steaks
Course: Appetizer, Light Lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, International
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 head green cabbage
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon garlic paste
  • 2 teaspoons fennel seeds or caraway seeds
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley for optional garnish

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Metal spatula
  • Grill
  • Perforated metal grill basket
  • Small Bowl
  • Silicone basting brush
  • Knife

Method
 

Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
  2. Slice the cabbage head into 1-inch thick wedges, arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, and brush both sides with olive oil, garlic paste, fennel, salt, and pepper.
  3. Roast for 25 minutes until the edges are golden brown, then carefully flip and roast for another 20 minutes until tender and crispy.
  4. Serve the cabbage steaks warm, optionally garnished with coarsely chopped fresh parsley.
Grilled Cabbage Steaks
  1. Preheat your grill to a medium-high temperature of 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice the cabbage and lightly brush a perforated metal grill basket with a high smoke point cooking oil; arrange the cabbage slices in the basket. Mix cooking oil with garlic paste, then baste both sides of the cabbage and sprinkle with fennel seed, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Place the grill basket over direct heat and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, until the outer surfaces are crispy and the inside is tender.
  4. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as grated Parmesan cheese, Ranch dressing, or garlic oil.

Notes

For crispy edges when roasting, avoid moving the cabbage slices except for the single flip. Leftover cabbage steaks tend to lose their crispiness by the next day, so serve immediately.
Dominique

Hi there, I’m chef living in New York City. Every morning, I wake up to the sounds of my little one’s laughter and the comforting routine of preparing breakfast for my family my husband, our child, and my beloved mother, who’s become both my rock and my inspiration since my father passed away. As the only daughter left in our family, I feel a deep responsibility to carry on his memory whenever I step into the kitchen.

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