Mediterranean Baked Cabbage Steaks with Cheese and Sauce

Mediterranean Baked Cabbage Steaks with Cheese and Sauce

Table of Contents

Cabbage gets a delicious Mediterranean makeover in this simple baked dish. Thick slices of cabbage, roasted until tender and caramelized, are topped with cheese and a creamy sauce for a rich, comforting flavor. Smoked paprika and garlic powder add depth, while fresh parsley or chili brings brightness and a little kick. It’s an easy side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, legumes, or grains, but it’s also hearty enough to stand on its own.

Time

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 30–35 minutes

Total time: 40–45 minutes

Ingredients

Cabbage: 1 head of cabbage, sliced into thick “steaks”

Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons

Seasonings:

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce: 2 tablespoons creamy sauce (cashew cream, tahini dressing, or vegan ranch)

Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheese (vegan or dairy, your choice)

Optional Garnish: Chopped red chili or fresh parsley

Instructions

Preheat oven: Heat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare cabbage steaks: Remove loose outer leaves of the cabbage and slice it into 1-inch-thick “steaks,” cutting straight through the core to hold them together.

Season cabbage: Place cabbage steaks on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Bake: Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway, until cabbage is tender and edges are browned and slightly crisp.

See also  Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet

Add cheese: Remove from oven, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over each steak, and return to the oven for another 5–8 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Finish with sauce: Drizzle your chosen creamy sauce over the hot cabbage steaks.

Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with chopped red chili or fresh parsley for a finishing touch. Serve warm.

Tips

Cut evenly: Slice the cabbage into uniform steaks so they cook at the same rate.

Use parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Flip carefully: Use a wide spatula to turn the steaks halfway through so they stay intact.

Cheese last: Add the cheese toward the end so it melts without burning.

Serve hot: Cabbage steaks are best enjoyed right out of the oven while the edges are crispy and the cheese is gooey.

Variations

Cheese choices: Try mozzarella for a melty finish, feta for a tangy bite, or a vegan blend for a plant-based version.

Herb upgrade: Sprinkle fresh thyme, oregano, or basil before baking for extra Mediterranean flavor.

Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or harissa paste before roasting for heat.

Sauce swap: Instead of tahini or cashew cream, try pesto, garlic aioli, or even tzatziki.

Extra toppings: Add roasted chickpeas, toasted pine nuts, or olives on top for more texture and protein.

Make it a meal: Serve over couscous, quinoa, or bulgur with a side of hummus for a complete plate.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can roast the cabbage steaks in advance, then reheat and add cheese and sauce just before serving for the best texture.

See also  Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Q: How do I keep the cabbage steaks from falling apart?
A: Cut through the core when slicing—this helps hold the leaves together during baking.

Q: Can I grill these instead of baking?
A: Yes. Brush with oil and seasonings, then grill over medium heat for about 6–8 minutes per side before topping with cheese and sauce.

Q: What’s the best cheese for melting?
A: Mozzarella and cheddar melt beautifully, while feta or Parmesan add stronger Mediterranean flavor but less melt.

Nutrition

(per serving, based on 4 servings with dairy cheese and tahini sauce)

Calories: ~210

Protein: 8 g

Carbohydrates: 14 g

Fat: 14 g

Fiber: 5 g

Calcium: ~18% DV

(Values are approximate and will vary depending on cheese and sauce choice.)

Conclusion

Mediterranean Baked Cabbage Steaks with Cheese and Sauce are a simple but impressive dish that turns a humble cabbage into a flavorful, hearty side or vegetarian main. Roasted until tender and caramelized, then finished with melted cheese and a drizzle of creamy sauce, they’re comforting, colorful, and easy to customize. Pair with grains, legumes, or grilled proteins for a wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meal.