Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage

Sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones that surprise you the most, and this Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage is exactly that. With just a few pantry staples and a head of cabbage, you can create a side dish that’s crispy, caramelized, and bursting with garlicky flavor. It’s a budget-friendly, healthy option that complements just about any meal.

Roasting cabbage changes everything. Instead of being bland or soggy, the cabbage becomes tender in the center with crispy, golden edges. The garlic-infused olive oil soaks into the layers, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat. It’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again, whether you’re eating low-carb, following a plant-based diet, or just trying to eat more vegetables.

this Recipe

What Is Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage?

Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage is a simple, sheet-pan side dish made by slicing a head of cabbage into thick rounds, brushing them with garlicky olive oil, and roasting until the edges are crispy and golden. It’s sometimes called cabbage “steaks” because of the hearty size of each slice.

This cooking method transforms cabbage into something rich, savory, and totally satisfying—without frying or complicated steps. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegan, and perfect for anyone who loves bold, roasted flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and caramelized – The oven brings out the cabbage’s natural sweetness.
• Minimal ingredients – Just cabbage, garlic, olive oil, and seasoning.
• Healthy and wholesome – Low in carbs, high in fiber, and packed with nutrients.
• Easy to prepare – No special equipment or skills required.
• Versatile – Serve it with meat, fish, tofu, or as part of a veggie platter.

What Does Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage Taste Like?

This dish is all about texture and flavor. The outer edges of the cabbage become crispy and browned, almost like potato chips, while the inside layers stay soft and juicy. The garlic infuses the cabbage with rich, savory flavor, and a touch of red pepper flakes adds a little spice. Fresh parsley adds color and brightness right before serving.

It’s earthy, sweet, and garlicky with a hint of smokiness from the roasted edges. Even people who usually don’t like cabbage are surprised by how tasty this version is!

Benefits of Making Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage

• Budget-friendly – Cabbage is inexpensive and readily available year-round.
• Nutrient-packed – Full of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Diet-friendly – Works for keto, paleo, vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie diets.
• Minimal cleanup – One pan, no mess.
• Customizable – Adjust spices, herbs, or toppings to match your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Roasted Cabbage:

• 1 medium green cabbage, cut into 1-inch thick rounds
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Additional red pepper flakes or lemon zest (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Baking sheet
• Small bowl for mixing oil and garlic
• Pastry brush (optional, but helpful)

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

• Try purple cabbage for a pop of color.
• Use butter instead of olive oil for a richer flavor.
• Add cheese like Parmesan or feta before serving for a creamy, salty finish.
• Sprinkle with lemon juice or zest for a citrusy kick.
• Use different herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary.

How to Make Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage

Step 1: Prep the Cabbage

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick rounds, keeping the core intact so the slices stay together.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Oil

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Season the Cabbage

Place the cabbage slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Brush both sides of each slice with the garlic oil mixture, making sure the garlic is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Roast

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The cabbage should be golden brown on the edges and tender in the center.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Add extra red pepper flakes or lemon zest if you like.

Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

What to Serve with Roasted Garlic Cabbage

• Grilled chicken, steak, or fish
• Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
• A simple grain bowl with quinoa or rice
• A vegetarian platter with hummus and pita
• Fried eggs for a hearty vegetarian breakfast

Tips for Success

• Slice the cabbage evenly to ensure all pieces cook at the same rate.
• Keep the core intact so the slices don’t fall apart.
• Watch carefully near the end of cooking—the edges should be crispy but not burned.
• Use parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Serve fresh—roasted cabbage is best hot from the oven.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep the edges crispy.
• Avoid freezing as the cabbage may become soggy when thawed.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 130
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 210mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes! Red cabbage will work, but it won’t caramelize exactly the same way. The flavor is still delicious.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway for crispy results.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s naturally low-carb and perfect for keto diets.

Can I cut the cabbage into wedges instead of rounds?
Yes, wedges work too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on size.

Conclusion

Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage is the kind of side dish that makes you wonder why you haven’t been roasting cabbage all along. It’s crispy, flavorful, and so easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side, a plant-based main, or a low-carb alternative to traditional starchy sides, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

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May 30, 2025 by Melissa