Pair this Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage with any main entrée for an impressive meal. Tender on the inside with golden, caramelized edges, this cabbage is infused with buttery garlic flavor and makes a beautiful, crowd-pleasing side dish.
Looking for a simple side that feels special? Roasting brings out cabbage’s natural sweetness and the garlic-butter combination elevates it into something irresistible.
As the cabbage caramelizes, the layers take on a lovely golden color and develop crisp edges that contrast with the soft interior. Even reluctant cabbage eaters often change their minds after a plate of these hearty, flavorful rounds.
This recipe is low-fuss with minimal cleanup and pairs well with a wide variety of mains. All ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store.
Below are the ingredients and straightforward steps to make these delicious roasted cabbage steaks.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage:
Green cabbage: Use one medium-sized head. Medium heads are easier to handle and the slices are simpler to flip.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and helps create crispy, brown edges. Total butter used is divided between basting and the finishing drizzle.
Fresh garlic: Mince 2 large cloves for a balanced garlic flavor; use 1 clove for milder, or 3 for a stronger garlic punch.
Seasonings: Sea salt, paprika, onion powder, and dried parsley. Add black pepper to taste and optionally a pinch of garlic powder if you prefer.
Recipe Adaptations:
- Add crispy bacon: cook 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, chop, and sprinkle over the cabbage before serving.
- Swap butter: ghee or vegan butter spread can work; for best texture and flavor stick with a butter-like product. If needed, brush the wedges with extra virgin olive oil instead.
- Heat it up: sprinkle red pepper flakes for spice.
- Give it an Asian twist: finish with sesame oil and sesame seeds.
- Try a touch of sweetness: drizzle pure maple syrup over the wedges before baking for a sweet-savory contrast.
- Add brightness: finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of lemon zest before serving.
Now let’s walk through the easy method to roast this cabbage.
How to Make Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage:
Remove 4 tablespoons of butter from the refrigerator about 10–20 minutes before you begin so it softens. Alternatively, use the microwave’s soften setting briefly.
Preheat the oven to 420°F. The high heat promotes caramelization and produces crisp edges.
Step 1: Cut the cabbage into steaks
Trim the rounded top and the hard core end from the head of cabbage. Slice the head into 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thick wedges—this thickness yields tender centers and nicely crisped edges.
Lightly oil a large rimmed baking sheet and arrange the cabbage slices in a single layer. If you prefer, line the sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Spread butter and garlic over cabbage
Spread the softened 4 tablespoons of butter evenly over the cabbage wedges. It may seem like a lot, but it helps with browning and flavor.
Sprinkle with sea salt, onion powder, paprika, and dried parsley. Add black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Roast the cabbage
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the pan and carefully flip each wedge using a sturdy spatula—sliding fully under each round helps it keep its shape.
Return the pan to the oven and bake an additional 5 minutes, or until the cabbage is golden, softened, and showing beginning signs of caramelization.
Step 4: Drizzle with garlic butter sauce
While the cabbage roasts, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a small bowl for 20–30 seconds. Stir in the minced garlic and spoon or brush this mixture over the cabbage rounds. You can also sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or another cheese at this point if desired.
Step 5: Bake one more time
Return the cabbage to the oven for another 3–5 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the cabbage reaches your preferred doneness. If you don’t have fresh garlic, swap in garlic powder with the other seasonings before the first roast.
Cooking times can vary based on wedge thickness and personal preference. Remove from the oven and serve alongside your favorite main.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
These roasted cabbage steaks are an ideal side for picky eaters and anyone who loves simple, flavorful vegetables.
Recipe Tips:
- For softer edges, cut wedges 1 inch thick and roast slightly longer. Thicker rounds are also easier to flip and present nicely.
- To protect the cabbage from intense heat, drizzle a little olive or avocado oil in addition to butter.
- Red cabbage should work similarly but may require a few extra minutes in the oven because it’s slightly firmer.
This low-carb, low-effort side is a great way to use a whole head of cabbage while enjoying a rich, comforting flavor profile.
What to Serve With Cabbage:
Some favorite pairings for garlic butter roasted cabbage include roast chicken, grilled steaks, baked salmon or halibut, shrimp skillets, and roasted tri-tip. The cabbage complements both seafood and hearty meat dishes.
Crispy cabbage for life!
Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized head green cabbage
- 5 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided*
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ¾ tsp sea salt, to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 2 large cloves garlic, minced**
Instructions
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Soften 4 tablespoons butter for 10–20 minutes or use a gentle microwave soften setting.
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Preheat oven to 420°F for good caramelization and crisp edges.
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Trim the top and hard core from the cabbage, then slice into 1/2–3/4-inch thick wedges for tender centers and crisp edges.
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Place wedges on a lightly oiled or parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet in a single layer.
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Spread the softened 4 tablespoons butter over the wedges and, if desired, drizzle a little olive oil to protect from intense heat.
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Season with sea salt, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, and black pepper to taste.
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Bake 20 minutes, carefully flip each wedge with a sturdy spatula, then bake another 5 minutes until golden and beginning to caramelize.
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Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter, stir in the minced garlic, and brush over the cabbage. Bake 3–5 more minutes until fragrant and cooked to your liking. If you don’t have fresh garlic, use garlic powder with the other seasonings.
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Serve and enjoy. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why roast cabbage?
Roasting is an easy way to develop caramelized flavor without constant stovetop attention. It’s a quicker, hands-off alternative to slow caramelizing in a skillet.
Is cabbage low carb?
Cabbage is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories. With the added butter, this recipe averages about 136 calories per serving and fits well into many low-carb or lower-calorie meal plans when eaten in reasonable portions.
More Healthy Side Dishes:
- Smashed Sweet Potatoes
- Garlic Butter Blistered Shishito Peppers
- Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Carrots
- Zucchini Fritters with Herb Garlic Aioli
- Crispy Cauliflower Potato Cakes
- Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash