Oven-Baked Cabbage Rolls

This oven-baked cabbage rolls recipe brings together juicy beef or turkey patties nestled on tender cabbage rounds and topped with melted cheese for a comforting and hearty meal. It hits the spot when you want something filling yet low in carbs without sacrificing flavor.

I discovered this recipe while looking for a warm yet light alternative to regular meat and potatoes dinners. Now it has become a family favorite, especially when we want something cozy but not heavy.

Ingredients

• Cabbage: One small head of cabbage, cut into thick ½ inch slices, sturdy enough to hold the patties and adds a mild crunch
• Ground meat: One and a half pounds of ground beef or turkey, choose fresh meat with good fat content for juicy patties, turkey benefits from the optional egg to bind better
• Onion: One small onion, finely chopped, brings sweetness and depth when combined with meat
• Garlic: Two cloves of garlic, minced, adds a savory kick that balances the cabbage taste
• Salt: One teaspoon salt, enhances all the flavors
• Black pepper: Half a teaspoon black pepper, adds gentle heat
• Smoked paprika: One teaspoon smoked paprika, gives a subtle smoky warmth, look for Spanish smoked paprika if possible
• Worcestershire sauce: One teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, deepens meat flavor and adds complexity
• Shredded cheese: Half cup shredded cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella, melts beautifully for a creamy topping
• Olive oil: Two tablespoons olive oil, use extra virgin for better flavor and brush on cabbage slices to help them roast well
• Egg: One egg optional, great for binding especially when using turkey meat

Instructions

Slicing and Preheating:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius so it is nice and hot for cooking. Slice the small head of cabbage into rounds about half an inch thick. Brushing both sides with olive oil prevents sticking and helps them roast evenly. Arrange these rounds on a lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.

Mixing and Shaping:

In a large mixing bowl combine the ground meat with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. If you are using turkey, add the egg here to help everything stick together better. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated but be careful not to overwork the meat or patties may become dense. Shape the mixture into patties roughly the same diameter as your cabbage slices for even cooking.

Assembling and Baking:

Place each meat patty on top of a cabbage round and press lightly to adhere the two components. Slide the tray into the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. This will cook the meat all the way through and soften the cabbage while keeping its shape so the texture stays pleasant.

Finishing with Cheese:

Remove the baking sheet and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the patties. Change oven settings to broil and return the tray for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts completely and turns golden brown. Keep a close eye here to prevent burning.

Serving:

Once out of the oven, you can garnish with fresh parsley if you like to add a burst of color and freshness. Serve with a dipping sauce such as sour cream or mustard to complement the smoky notes and creamy cheese topping.

I love the way smoked paprika elevates the dish with a gentle smoky flavor that lingers without overpowering. One memorable evening, this recipe saved a last minute dinner when the fridge was looking bare. It brought everyone to the table smiling and satisfied.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground chicken can work if you prefer a lighter meat. You can swap the cheese for a dairy free alternative to keep it lactose free. Smoked paprika can be replaced with regular paprika plus a small pinch of cumin for a similar effect.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cabbage rolls with steamed green beans or a simple mixed green salad for freshness. They also go well with a dollop of tangy sour cream or your favorite mustard for dipping.

These oven baked cabbage rolls make a cozy, low carb weeknight dinner that reheats well for leftovers. Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream or mustard for added tang.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of meat works best for this dish?

Ground beef or turkey both provide juicy and flavorful patties, with turkey benefiting from an added egg for binding.

→ How do I prepare the cabbage slices for baking?

Cut the cabbage into thick ½ inch rounds, brush both sides with olive oil, and place on a baking sheet for even roasting.

→ Can I use different cheeses for topping?

Yes, cheddar, mozzarella, or any melty cheese work well to add a savory finish when broiled on the patties.

→ What temperature and time are ideal for baking?

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes to cook the meat through and soften the cabbage, then broil cheese for 3-5 minutes.

→ Are there tips for easier cabbage slicing?

Chilling the cabbage in the fridge for 30 minutes firms it up, making it easier to slice into uniform rounds.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, it naturally contains no gluten, making it appropriate for gluten-free meal plans.