Savory Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks Recipe
Introduction
Savory Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks turn humble cabbage into a flavorful and elegant side dish. Caramelized edges and tender interiors are infused with garlic, thyme, and a bright splash of lemon, creating a perfect balance of richness and freshness.

Ingredients
- 1 large green cabbage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon red-pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Remove any wilted outer leaves from the cabbage. Slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick steaks, about four sturdy pieces total. Pat each slice dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, thyme, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth to create the garlic butter sauce.
- Step 3: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it is fully hot before roasting.
- Step 4: Brush both sides of each cabbage steak with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with sea salt and black pepper for seasoning.
- Step 5: Spread a generous layer of the garlic butter mixture on the top side of each cabbage steak.
- Step 6: Arrange the steaks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the edges are deep golden and slightly crisp.
- Step 7: Remove the steaks from the oven and drizzle any remaining pan juices over them. Sprinkle with red-pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Let rest for 3 minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the garlic butter mixture.
- Substitute fresh thyme with rosemary or oregano for a different herb profile.
- Use vegan butter and omit Parmesan to make this dish dairy-free.
- Serve with a squeeze of extra lemon juice just before serving for added brightness.
Storage
Store leftover cabbage steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through to maintain crisp edges. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage for this recipe?
Yes, you can use red cabbage or savoy cabbage, but green cabbage works best for its firm texture and mild flavor.
How do I know when the cabbage steaks are done roasting?
The edges should be golden brown and slightly crisp, while the inside remains tender but not mushy. This usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes at 425°F (220°C).
PrintSavory Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks Recipe
Savory Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks are thick-cut cabbage slices roasted to perfection with a rich garlic butter sauce. The edges caramelize beautifully while the interior remains tender and juicy. Enhanced with fresh thyme, lemon juice, and optional Parmesan and red pepper flakes, this dish offers a deliciously aromatic, buttery, and slightly tangy flavor profile. It serves as a satisfying vegetarian side or main course, perfectly paired with grains or salads.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large green cabbage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Seasonings & Garnish (Optional)
- ¼ teaspoon red‑pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preparing the Cabbage Steaks: Remove any wilted outer leaves from the cabbage then slice the cabbage into 1‑inch thick steaks, about four pieces total. Pat the slices dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture which helps prevent steaming during roasting.
- Making the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, thyme, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until a smooth paste forms.
- Preheating the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure proper roasting.
- Seasoning and Oiling the Cabbage: Brush both sides of each cabbage steak with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with sea salt and black pepper. This helps the butter to stick and promotes even browning.
- Applying the Garlic Butter: Spread a generous layer of the garlic-butter mixture on the top side of each cabbage steak. This will melt during roasting and infuse rich garlic flavor.
- Roasting the Steaks: Arrange the cabbage steaks on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between them. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the edges are deep golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Finishing and Garnishing: Remove steaks from the oven, drizzle any pan juices on top, and sprinkle with optional red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, and freshly chopped parsley. Let rest for 3 minutes before serving.
- Serving the Dish: Transfer the cabbage steaks to a serving platter. These pair well with grains like quinoa or a fresh green salad. Serve hot to enjoy the caramelized buttery crust at its best.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- For a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and omit Parmesan.
- Be sure to dry cabbage steaks thoroughly to avoid steaming instead of roasting.
- Keeping the steaks thick (about 1 inch) ensures they hold together during roasting.
- Leftovers can be reheated in a skillet or oven to preserve crisp edges.
Keywords: roasted cabbage steaks, garlic butter cabbage, vegetarian side dish, baked cabbage, garlic butter sauce, easy vegetable recipes

