Mediterranean Baked Cabbage with Cheese and Creamy Sauce
This dish turns humble cabbage into a Mediterranean-inspired comfort meal. Thick slices of roasted cabbage are brushed with olive oil, seasoned with smoky spices, then topped with a creamy sauce and melted cheese. The result is tender, slightly caramelized cabbage steaks with a savory, cheesy crust and just the right amount of spice. It works beautifully as a hearty side dish or even a vegetarian main when paired with grains or a salad.
Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes
Ingredients
1 head cabbage, sliced into thick “steaks” (about 1-inch thick)
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp vegan creamy sauce (cashew cream, tahini dressing, or vegan ranch)
1 cup vegan shredded cheese (or regular cheese like mozzarella or parmesan)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: chopped red chili or fresh parsley
Instructions
Preheat oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare cabbage: Arrange the cabbage steaks on the baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil. Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Roast base layer: Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges begin to brown and the cabbage is tender.
Add sauce and cheese: Remove cabbage from oven. Spread a thin layer of creamy sauce over each cabbage steak, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Bake again: Return to oven for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped red chili or parsley before serving.
Tips
Slice evenly: Cut cabbage into uniform “steaks” so they cook evenly and don’t fall apart.
Use parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Check tenderness: If you prefer softer cabbage, roast a few minutes longer before adding the sauce and cheese.
Cheese browning: For a golden top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
Variations
Cheese options: Use mozzarella for a stretchy melt, parmesan for sharpness, or feta for a tangy Mediterranean touch.
Creamy base swap: Instead of cashew cream, try Greek yogurt or a light béchamel sauce.
Add protein: Top with chickpeas, cooked lentils, or shredded chicken to turn it into a main dish.
Spice it up: Add chili flakes, cayenne, or harissa paste for extra heat.
Fresh finish: Drizzle with lemon juice or sprinkle with fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or cilantro) before serving.
Layered bake: Instead of steaks, chop cabbage into chunks, toss with sauce and cheese, then bake casserole-style.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can roast the cabbage steaks ahead, then add the sauce and cheese just before reheating in the oven.
Q: Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
A: You can, though red cabbage will take a bit longer to soften and won’t caramelize quite the same way.
Q: What’s the best way to serve this?
A: It works well as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted fish, or a grain-based salad. As a vegetarian main, serve it with quinoa, couscous, or crusty bread.
Q: How do I keep the cabbage from falling apart?
A: Keep the core intact when slicing the cabbage. This helps the steaks hold their shape while roasting.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes. Just stick with vegan cheese and a dairy-free creamy base such as cashew cream or tahini.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~210
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fat: 14 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 380 mg
(Values will vary depending on cheese type and creamy sauce used.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Baked Cabbage with Cheese and Creamy Sauce is a simple way to turn cabbage into something rich, savory, and comforting. The roasted cabbage takes on a tender texture with caramelized edges, while the creamy sauce and melted cheese add indulgence without much effort. Flexible enough to serve as a side or main, this dish can be customized with herbs, proteins, or different sauces to suit your taste. It’s a fresh, flavorful take on a humble vegetable that feels satisfying and wholesome.