The first time I heard cabbage steaks sizzling on the grill, I thought my neighbor had lost her mind. But that smoky, caramelized smell drifting over the fence made me curious. These grilled garlic cabbage steaks have become my secret weapon for summer BBQs. Everyone asks for the recipe.
Think thick slices of fresh cabbage, brushed with garlicky butter and grilled until the edges get crispy and golden. It’s like having a steak dinner, but lighter and way more surprising. The center stays tender while those outer leaves turn into crispy, smoky bites of heaven. Full details in the blog!
I’ve been experimenting with cabbage since Mom’s old coleslaw days, but this method completely changed my mind about this humble vegetable. After testing different thicknesses and garlic combinations, I found the perfect balance. You’ll love how simple this is.
PrintGrilled Garlic Cabbage Steaks Super Easy and Delicious
Enjoy these Grilled Garlic Cabbage Steaks as a flavorful and simple side dish. This recipe pairs well with Garlic Parmesan Grilled Cabbage Steaks and Easy Grilled Cabbage Steaks BBQ Side for a tasty vegetable option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Vegetable Side
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Standard
Ingredients
- 1 head green cabbage
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 2 teaspoons fennel seeds or caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoons kosher salt to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper to taste
- fresh parsley for optional garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the cabbage into 1 inch thick slices and spread them evenly on the baking sheet.
- Apply half the olive oil, garlic paste, fennel seeds, salt, and pepper on both sides of each cabbage slice.
- Bake the cabbage for about 25 minutes, until the edges touching the tray become golden brown.
- Flip the cabbage slices carefully and roast for 20 more minutes until tender with crispy edges.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- For crisp tops, broil 2–3 minutes at the end
Nutrition
- Calories: 62.1kcal
- Sugar: 3.7g
- Sodium: 311.5mg
- Fat: 3.6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.4g + 2.6g
- Carbohydrates: 7.2g
- Fiber: 2.9g
- Protein: 1.6g
Why These Grilled Garlic Cabbage Steaks Will Change Your Mind About Cabbage
Let me share a secret – cabbage doesn’t have to be bland. When you slice it thick and grill it with garlic paste and fennel seeds, something amazing happens. The outer leaves become crispy and caramelized while the center stays tender and sweet.
- Each “steak” holds together beautifully on the grill, without falling apart
- The garlic paste creates an incredible savory crust
- Fennel seeds add a subtle licorice note that will have people guessing your secret
- Hearty enough to satisfy but light enough to leave room for dessert
This recipe reminds me of my grandmother Julia’s talent for turning simple vegetables into something special. She always said the best dishes come from treating humble ingredients with care.
Breaking Down Your Simple Ingredients
One of the things I love about this recipe is how it elevates just a few pantry staples into something that feels restaurant-quality. Chances are, you have most of these ingredients on hand.
- Green cabbage: Choose heads that feel heavy with tight, crisp outer leaves
- Garlic paste: The flavor powerhouse – spreads evenly and won’t burn like minced garlic
- Extra virgin olive oil: Helps everything caramelize and adds richness
- Fennel seeds: Essential for warmth and complexity (caraway seeds also work)
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that let the cabbage shine
| Ingredient | Why It Works | Easy Swap |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic paste | Spreads evenly, won’t burn | 3 cloves minced fresh garlic |
| Fennel seeds | Adds subtle licorice warmth | Caraway seeds or cumin |
| Extra virgin olive oil | High heat tolerance, great flavor | Avocado oil or melted butter |
How to Get Perfect Grilled Cabbage Steaks Every Time
The secret to amazing grilled garlic cabbage steaks lies in the prep and patience. Don’t rush – those crispy edges are worth the wait.
- Cut thick steaks: Aim for 1-inch slices so they hold together on the grill
- Season both sides generously: Cabbage stands up well to bold flavors
- Don’t move them too much: Let those beautiful grill marks develop
- Use medium heat: Too hot and the outside burns before the inside cooks
I learned this the hard way when my first attempt ended with charred cabbage that was still raw inside. Now I’m patient and let the heat work slowly.
Grilled Cabbage Steaks Recipe Instructions
Ready to fire up the grill? Here’s how to make these beauties outdoors instead of the oven. The smoky grill flavor takes them to a whole new level.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat and clean the grates thoroughly
- Prepare cabbage steaks with 1-inch thick slices brushed with the garlic paste mixture
- Grill for 8-10 minutes per side until nice char marks appear and edges start crisping
- Use a perforated grilling basket if you’re worried about pieces falling through
| Method | Temperature | Time Per Side | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven Roasting | 400°F | 25 min, flip, 20 min | Golden brown edges |
| Grilling | Medium heat | 8-10 minutes | Char marks, crispy edges |
Pro Tip: If you’re making these as an easy grilled cabbage steak side, start them before your main dish to allow enough time for them to get tender.
Troubleshooting Common Cabbage Steak Issues
Even experienced cooks face challenges. Here are common problems and quick fixes.
- Steaks falling apart? Cut thicker slices and avoid flipping too soon
- Burning outside but raw inside? Lower the heat and give them more time
- Not crispy enough? Pat dry before seasoning and avoid overcrowding the grill or pan
- Bland flavor? Season more generously – cabbage needs bold flavors
Remember, every grill and oven is unique. Trust your eyes and nose over the timer. When the edges turn golden and crispy, you’re close.
Creative Ways to Serve and Store Your Cabbage Steaks
These versatile steaks pair well with many meals. I enjoy them alongside grilled chicken or as a low-carb alternative to starches.
- As a side: Ideal with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish
- As a main: Top with crumbled feta, fresh herbs, or a fried egg
- In bowls: Chop leftovers into grain bowls or salads
| Storage Method | How Long | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Reheat in oven or chop for salads |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw and add to soups or stews |
| Counter | 2 hours max | Best enjoyed fresh and warm |
Note: These are best served fresh from the grill or oven. The crispy edges soften overnight, but they remain delicious when reheated or chopped into other dishes.
Expert Says
Grilled garlic cabbage steaks offer a fantastic way to enjoy cruciferous vegetables. Grilling at high heat caramelizes the natural sugars, enhancing the flavor and texture. Garlic adds a robust taste while complementing the dish beautifully.
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The Road to Perfect Grilled Garlic Cabbage Steaks
After several attempts, I finally mastered the art of grilled garlic cabbage steaks. From burning my first batch to discovering the magic of marinating overnight, every mishap taught me a lesson in flavor and patience. Now, they’re tender, smoky, and bursting with garlic goodness, and they hold a special place at our family table.
FAQs ( Grilled Garlic Cabbage Steaks )
How do I grill cabbage steaks?
Start by cutting the cabbage into thick slices, about 1 inch each. Brush them lightly with olive oil and season with your favorite spices. Grill on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, until they’re tender and slightly charred for the best flavor.
What sides go with cabbage steaks?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, quinoa salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also serve it alongside a tangy yogurt sauce or a simple vinaigrette for added flavor.
Can cabbage steaks be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Cabbage steaks are naturally vegetarian. You can enhance their flavors with garlic, herbs, and spices without needing meat. This dish is perfect as a hearty vegetarian option at any meal.
How long does it take to cook cabbage steaks?
Cooking time is typically around 10-15 minutes on a grill or in the oven, depending on the thickness of the slices. You’ll want them to become tender and have a nice char, but not so soft that they lose their shape.
What toppings work best with cabbage steaks?
Toppings like garlic butter, Parmesan cheese, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika enhance the flavor beautifully. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or fresh herbs just before serving for an extra burst of freshness.
These grilled garlic cabbage steaks take about 45 minutes from start to finish, but the results are worth every minute. The edges become crispy and caramelized while the center stays tender and sweet. That smoky garlic aroma will have your neighbors peeking over the fence asking what smells so delicious.
Try topping them with crumbled feta or fresh herbs for extra flavor, or swap the fennel seeds for smoked paprika if you want more of a BBQ vibe. These keep well in the fridge for three days – simply reheat in the oven to crisp the edges again. Julia always said the best side dishes steal the show, and these certainly do.
I’d love to see how yours turn out! Share a photo and tag us – there’s something so satisfying about capturing that perfect char and hearing everyone’s surprised reactions. Did your family have any creative ways with cabbage growing up? Save this recipe for your next BBQ and watch it become the unexpected star of the table.
