If you’re looking for a new way to fall in love with veggies, let me introduce you to Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks. This simple but transformative dish turns humble cabbage into golden-edged, buttery wonders, infused with aromatic garlic and a hint of smoked paprika. You’ll get tender centers, perfectly caramelized edges, and loads of crave-worthy flavor in every slice. Whether you’re making a plant-based main dish or want to jazz up your side game, this recipe will absolutely surprise you with its deliciousness!

Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks lies in just how few ingredients you actually need—each one playing a starring role in the final flavor. From the rich butter to the smoky paprika, every element brings something extra.

Green cabbage: Choose a large, firm head—its crisp layers will roast beautifully and hold together when sliced.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter soaks into every layer, giving that luxurious, rich finish—we’re talking serious comfort food vibes!
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic boosts aroma and taste, making the whole kitchen smell incredible.
Smoked paprika: This adds a subtle smoky depth that totally elevates the cabbage—don’t skip it if you can help it!
Onion powder: Rounds out the savory profile for every bite, adding umami without overpowering.
Salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the cabbage and helps everything caramelize.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds gentle heat and keeps things lively on the palate.
Fresh parsley: A pop of green and freshness at the end livens up both look and flavor.
Red pepper flakes (optional): If you appreciate a little kick, these add a gentle, lingering heat that contrasts the butteriness beautifully.

How to Make Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by warming your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks get that perfect crispy edge while staying super tender in the middle. If your oven tends to run cool, crank it a bit higher for even golden browning.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

Remove any wilted outer leaves from your cabbage and give it a rinse. Slice it into thick, 1-inch “steaks,” making sure to cut through the core so each piece stays intact. Depending on your cabbage size, you should have around 4 to 6 steaks; use the largest ones for the most impressive presentation.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This is where the magic starts: the mixture should smell incredible—just wait until it hits the oven! Be generous with the garlic; it’s the backbone of those classic Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks flavors.

Step 4: Coat the Cabbage Steaks

Lay your cabbage steaks flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them a bit of room. Brush both sides thoroughly with your garlic butter mixture, ensuring every crevice is loaded with savory goodness. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the top for subtle heat.

Step 5: Roast the Cabbage

Roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, gently flipping halfway through. Watch as the edges caramelize to deep golden brown and the centers soften—this transformation is where Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks become truly irresistible. Don’t rush; that extended roast is what gives you those dreamy, crispy bits!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once your steaks are tender and glowing with roasted color, pull them from the oven and immediately shower with fresh parsley. Serve warm as they’re bursting with flavor straight from the pan; every forkful is packed with buttery richness, smokiness, and savory delight.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but feel free to get creative! Try a dusting of extra smoked paprika, flaky sea salt, or even a squeeze of lemon for a burst of brightness. For a fancier finish, add toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze—it adds a touch of elegance that guests love.

Side Dishes

Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks make a fantastic partner for so many dishes. Pair them with mashed potatoes, roasted chicken, or even a creamy risotto. If you’re plant-based, serve with quinoa, lentil salad, or a hearty bean stew. They hold their own beautifully or balance a rich, saucy main.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your cabbage steaks layered on a platter with other roasted vegetables, or top them with feta and toasted seeds for a stunning appetizer. For a personal touch, stack them over grains and finish with a poached egg—brunch game changer! However you plate them, Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks always shine as a centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let them cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors mellow and meld, making for a delicious next-day lunch or snack.

Freezing

While you can freeze Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks, it’s best to know their texture changes a bit: they become softer, losing some of their crisp edge. If you need to freeze, place them in a single layer with parchment between each steak and store for up to one month. Let thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, re-crisp your cabbage steaks in the oven at 375°F until warmed through, about 10-12 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, a few minutes in a hot skillet works, too. The microwave is convenient (and totally fine), but you’ll lose some of those roasted textures—still delicious, but different!

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

Absolutely! Red cabbage adds a vibrant pop of color and a slightly earthier flavor to your Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Just be aware that the texture might be a little firmer and the flavor a touch stronger, but it’s a tasty twist.

Is it possible to make these vegan?

Yes, simply swap the butter for a vegan butter alternative or use a generous drizzle of olive oil. The garlic, smoked paprika, and other seasonings will still shine, and you’ll get that signature roasted goodness.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

No worries! You can substitute regular paprika, a pinch of chipotle powder, or even a dash of cumin for complex flavor. It won’t have that pronounced smokiness, but your Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks will still taste amazing.

How do I keep my cabbage steaks from falling apart?

Cutting the cabbage through the core is crucial; it acts as a “glue” holding each steak together. Use a large, sharp knife and handle the slices gently while flipping and moving them—thicker steaks also tend to stay together better.

Can I cook these on the grill?

Definitely! Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks are fantastic on the grill. Just oil your grill grates, brush both sides with the garlic butter mixture, and grill on medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side. You’ll love the added smokiness!

Final Thoughts

Don’t be surprised if Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks become your go-to for a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish. You’re just a few humble ingredients and a hot oven away from savoring one of the best ways to enjoy cabbage. Give it a try—you may find yourself reaching for seconds (and thirds) before you know it!

Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 11 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks are a flavorful and simple way to enjoy cabbage. The combination of garlic, butter, and spices creates a deliciously savory dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients

Scale

Cabbage Steaks:

1 large green cabbage

Garlic Butter Mixture:

1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)

Garnish:

2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Cabbage: Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage. Cut the cabbage into 1-inch thick slices (steaks) through the core so that each steak holds together. You should yield about 4-6 steak pieces depending on the size of the cabbage.
Make the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Coat the Cabbage Steaks: Place the cabbage steaks on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush both sides generously with the garlic butter mixture. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle the red pepper flakes over the steaks.
Roast the Cabbage: Roast the cabbage in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and the cabbages are tender.
Garnish and Serve: Once roasted, remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, buttery, and savory flavors!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American