Description
If you’re looking for a unique and healthy twist on the classic burger, these Baked Cabbage Nest Burgers are a must-try! The crisp, tender cabbage leaves replace the usual burger bun, making this dish not only lighter but also full of flavor. With savory, juicy patties nestled inside a cabbage nest, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional burgers. The added freshness from the cabbage makes every bite satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re watching carbs or just love trying new things, these burgers will surely become a favorite!
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Ingredients
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For the Burger Patties:
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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or your preferred meat)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried basil
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Cabbage Nests:
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6–8 large cabbage leaves (from a head of cabbage)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings (optional):
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Sliced tomatoes
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Pickles
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Sliced cheese (optional)
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Lettuce
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Mustard or ketchup (optional)
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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Nests
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Carefully remove 6-8 large, whole leaves from a head of cabbage. If the leaves are too thick or tough, you can soften them by blanching them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then running them under cold water. Pat dry with a paper towel.
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Brush each cabbage leaf with a light coating of olive oil on both sides, and season with a little salt and pepper.
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Place the cabbage leaves on a baking sheet, arranging them in a circle to form nests. You can overlap a few of the leaves slightly to create the shape of a nest.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and starting to brown around the edges. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Burger Patties
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While the cabbage is baking, prepare the burger patties. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or your choice of ground meat), chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
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Use your hands to mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
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Form the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on the size you prefer.
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Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the burger patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
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Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Burgers
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Once the cabbage nests are done baking and the burger patties are cooked, it’s time to assemble!
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Take one of the baked cabbage nests and place a cooked burger patty in the center of the nest.
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Top the burger with your favorite toppings, such as sliced tomatoes, pickles, lettuce, cheese, or mustard/ketchup. You can even add more seasoning or a dollop of ranch dressing for extra flavor.
Step 4: Serve
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Serve your Baked Cabbage Nest Burgers immediately while the patties are hot. You can serve them with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Notes
Use Fresh Cabbage Leaves – Ensure that your cabbage leaves are large and pliable enough to form a nest shape. Blanching tougher cabbage leaves in hot water can make them more flexible.
Cook the Patties to Your Liking – Adjust the cooking time depending on how well-done you like your burgers. If you prefer them medium-rare, cook for less time.
Get Creative with Toppings – Feel free to add extra toppings like avocado, sautéed mushrooms, or even a fried egg to take your burgers to the next level.
Meal Prep Tip – You can make the burger patties and cabbage nests ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, and then assemble and reheat when ready to eat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Cuisine: American