Crispy Roasted Parmesan Cabbage Steaks with Garlic Herb Butter is a delightful way to enjoy a vegetable that often gets overlooked. This dish transforms humble cabbage into an impressive and satisfying main course that’s both eye-catching and full of flavor. The par cooked cabbage, kissed by the oven, emerges with golden edges, topped with a crunchy layer of savory Parmigiano Reggiano cheese that brings an umami punch to every bite. Crisp outside with that irresistible garlic herb butter richness, they become a culinary celebration on your plate!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Crispy Roasted Parmesan Cabbage Steaks with Garlic Herb Butter
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Crispy Roasted Parmesan Cabbage Steaks with Garlic Herb Butter

Crispy Roasted Parmesan Cabbage Steaks with Garlic Herb Butter

I remember the first time I decided to try making cabbage steaks; I was intrigued by the concept. It seemed like a simple yet exciting twist on vegetables that nobody really talks about. The moment I took that first bite of the crispy, cheesy topping combined with the tender cabbage, I knew I had discovered a new favorite dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive side at a gathering, these crispy roasted parmesan cabbage steaks are sure to win hearts, one delicious bite at a time. Give this recipe a whirl, and you might just find your new go-to dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic, olive oil, and nutty Parmigiano Reggiano creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that everyone will love.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors and crispy texture make for a gorgeous presentation that impresses guests.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy these steaks as a main dish, appetizer, or a hearty side; they fit into any meal nicely.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, they’re suitable for many diets, making them a versatile recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 cabbage steaks: Look for medium-sized cabbages; cutting them into 1-inch thick “steaks” keeps them sturdy and flavorful.
1/3 cup olive oil: This adds richness and helps the cheese crisp up beautifully. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its robust flavor.
1 1/2 tsp. minced garlic: Fresh garlic brings a punch and aromatic depth; feel free to adjust according to your preference.
1/4 tsp. salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors of both the cabbage and cheese.
1/2 tsp. pepper: Fresh cracked black pepper adds a hint of heat that complements the richness.
1 tsp. smoked paprika: This lends a smoky undertone that elevates the flavor profile of the dish.
1 1/2 cups grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese: The star of the dish! This cheese adds a savory, nutty flavor that makes the dish truly indulgent.
1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar: A drizzle at the end enhances the flavors and balances the richness with a touch of acidity.
1 tbsp. chopped parsley: Fresh parsley not only brightens the dish visually but adds a subtle herbaceous flavor.

How to Make Crispy Roasted Parmesan Cabbage Steaks with Garlic Herb Butter

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. This high temperature is key to achieving perfectly crispy cabbage steaks.

Prepare the cabbage: Rinse the cabbage under cold water. Halve the cabbage vertically and then cut into thick “steaks,” about 1 inch in thickness, ensuring each steak includes part of the stem to hold it together. This technique keeps the steaks from falling apart.

Mix the garlic oil: In a bowl, combine 1/3 cup olive oil, 1 1/2 tsp. minced garlic, 1/4 tsp. salt, 1/2 tsp. pepper, and 1 tsp. smoked paprika. This rich mixture will help the cabbage soak up flavors while roasting.

Brush the cabbage: Generously brush both sides of each cabbage steak with the garlic oil mixture, ensuring an even coat that will yield a crispy texture.

Prepare the cheese beds: On your lined baking sheet, pile approximately 1/3 cup of grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese for each steak, creating a little cheese nest. This is where your cabbage steaks will sit while baking to develop that crispy crust.

Roast the cabbage steaks: Place each cabbage steak gently onto its cheese bed and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye out until the edges turn golden brown and crisp. You’ll know they are ready when the cheese has melted, bubbling around the edges.

Add finishing touches: After removing the steaks from the oven, drizzle them with 1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. This brightens each bite, cutting through the richness of the cheese.

Serve immediately: These crispy roasted Parmesan cabbage steaks are best enjoyed straight from the oven while still hot and crispy. Don’t forget to savor each delectable bite!

Storing & Reheating

To keep your delicious leftovers, store them at room temperature for a few hours, depending on your climate. For prolonged freshness, transfer the cabbage steaks to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to save them longer, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in a 375°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through, though the texture may be less crisp.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

When cutting the cabbages, ensure your knife is sharp. A clean cut helps maintain the structure of the steaks.
Don’t skimp on the garlic; it enhances the overall flavor beautifully, making each bite irresistible.
If you’re not a fan of smoky flavors, feel free to skip the smoked paprika or replace it with a pinch of chili powder for a mild kick.
For a personalized touch, customize the amount of cheese based on taste. More cheese equals a richer flavor!
Make ahead: Prepare and brush your cabbage steaks with the garlic mixture a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to roast.

These crispy roasted Parmesan cabbage steaks are not only a fantastic way to enjoy this underrated vegetable, but they also bring a bit of cheer to your dinner table. With their golden toasted cheese and savory aroma, they’re sure to impress any guests, or simply become your new favorite weeknight dish! Don’t hesitate to switch things up with herbs or spices to make this dish uniquely yours. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use another type of cheese instead of Parmigiano Reggiano?

Absolutely! While Parmigiano Reggiano offers a delightful nuttiness, you can substitute with aged cheddar or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that each cheese may affect the overall taste and melting behavior.

How do I know when the cabbage is done roasting?

Cabbage steaks are perfectly roasted when the edges are caramelized and crispy, typically after 20-25 minutes in the oven. You can also use a fork to test the tenderness—if it pierces easily, they are ready to be served.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Certainly! To create a vegan version, simply skip the cheese and replace the garlic herb butter with a mixture of nutritional yeast and olive oil blended with spices for flavor. You might miss that cheesy bite, but the cabbage itself remains delicious!

What else can I serve with these cabbage steaks?

These crispy roasted Parmesan cabbage steaks pair wonderfully with a light salad or can be served alongside grilled proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu. They can also stand alone as a satisfying main dish if you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian option.