Garlic Parmesan & Mozzarella Crusted Cabbage Steaks
Garlic Parmesan & Mozzarella Crusted Cabbage Steaks are a delicious way to turn an ordinary head of cabbage into a flavorful, cheesy side dish. Thick cabbage slices are seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and herbs, then roasted until tender and topped with Parmesan and melted mozzarella.
The edges become beautifully golden, while the cheese creates a savory, slightly crispy crust. This easy oven-baked recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or anyone looking for a creative way to enjoy more vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Simple ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples and fresh cabbage.
– Cheesy and flavorful: Parmesan adds a salty, savory taste, while mozzarella melts into a delicious topping.
– Easy preparation: Just slice, season, roast, and add cheese.
– Versatile side dish: Pairs well with chicken, beef, fish, or vegetarian meals.
– Naturally low in carbohydrates: A satisfying vegetable dish without complicated ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 large head of green cabbage
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes
How to Make Garlic Parmesan & Mozzarella Crusted Cabbage Steaks
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Remove any damaged outer cabbage leaves. Place the cabbage on a cutting board and slice it into thick rounds, approximately ¾ to 1 inch thick. Keep the core intact so the slices hold together during cooking.
Arrange the cabbage steaks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Mix until everything is evenly blended.
Brush the seasoning mixture over both sides of each cabbage steak, making sure to coat the edges for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Roast Until Tender
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the cabbage for approximately 20–25 minutes.
Carefully turn the steaks halfway through cooking if they are firm enough to handle. The cabbage should begin to soften and develop lightly browned edges.
Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan and Mozzarella
Remove the cabbage from the oven.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan evenly over each steak, followed by shredded mozzarella.
Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become bubbly.
For a deeper golden crust, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the cabbage steaks from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and, if desired, a little extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes.
Serve warm while the cheese is melted and delicious.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Steaks
– Cut thick slices: Thick cabbage rounds are easier to handle and less likely to fall apart.
– Keep the core intact: The core helps hold each steak together.
– Season both sides: This gives every bite a balanced garlic and herb flavor.
– Avoid overcrowding: Leave space between the steaks so they roast instead of steam.
– Use freshly grated Parmesan: It provides excellent flavor and melts more evenly into the topping.
– Watch the broiler: Cheese can brown very quickly, so keep an eye on it.
Easy Variations
Add Bacon
Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the mozzarella before returning the cabbage to the oven. It adds a smoky, savory flavor.
Make It Spicy
Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the garlic seasoning for a little heat.
Try Different Cheeses
You can replace some of the mozzarella with cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
Add Lemon
Finish the roasted cabbage with a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice to balance the richness of the cheese.
What to Serve with Cabbage Steaks
These cheesy cabbage steaks make a wonderful side dish for many meals. Try serving them with:
– Grilled or roasted chicken.
– Garlic butter steak.
– Baked salmon or white fish.
– Roasted potatoes.
– Rice or quinoa.
– A fresh green salad.
They can also be served as a light vegetarian main dish with a bowl of soup or a hearty grain salad.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm the cabbage steaks in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–12 minutes, or until heated through. An air fryer can also help restore some crispness.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended because cabbage can become watery and soft after thawing, and the cheese topping may change texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare cabbage steaks ahead of time?
Yes. You can slice the cabbage and prepare the garlic seasoning a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then season and roast when ready.
Why are my cabbage steaks falling apart?
This usually happens when the slices are too thin or the core has been removed. Cut thick rounds and leave the core intact to help hold the leaves together.
Can I make this recipe without mozzarella?
Absolutely. Parmesan alone creates a flavorful topping, although it will not have the same stretchy, melted texture. You can also use another good melting cheese.
How do I know when cabbage steaks are done?
The cabbage should be tender when pierced with a fork, with lightly browned edges and melted, golden cheese on top.
Can I cook cabbage steaks in an air fryer?
Yes. Arrange the seasoned steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 12–16 minutes, depending on thickness. Add the cheeses during the final 3–4 minutes and cook until melted.
Garlic Parmesan & Mozzarella Crusted Cabbage Steaks Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Servings: 4
Cooking Method: Oven-baked
Ingredients
– 1 large green cabbage
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves minced garlic
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ cup grated Parmesan
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
2. Slice the cabbage into thick ¾–1-inch rounds, keeping the core intact.
3. Mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
4. Brush both sides of the cabbage steaks with the seasoning mixture.
5. Roast for 20–25 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften and brown.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella over the steaks.
7. Return to the oven for 8–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan & Mozzarella Crusted Cabbage Steaks are an easy and delicious way to make vegetables the star of the meal. With tender roasted cabbage, fragrant garlic seasoning, and a golden layer of melted cheese, this recipe delivers plenty of flavor with very little effort.
Serve them as a comforting side dish or enjoy them as a simple vegetarian meal. Once you try this cheesy cabbage recipe, it may become one of your favorite ways to prepare cabbage.