Oven Baked Cabbage with Parmesan Cheese – The Perfect Side Dish
If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious side dish, oven-baked cabbage with Parmesan cheese is an excellent choice. This dish transforms ordinary cabbage into a savory, crispy, and cheesy delight that pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or enjoying it as a vegetarian option, this easy-to-make dish will impress your family and guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Minimal ingredients and simple steps.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Cabbage is packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Delicious & Flavorful: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of cabbage, while Parmesan adds a rich, savory touch.
- Crispy & Cheesy: The perfect combination of texture and taste.
Ingredients
To make this oven-baked cabbage with Parmesan cheese, you’ll need:
- 1 medium green cabbage, cut into wedges or thick slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter for extra richness)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky touch)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a fresh finish)
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cabbage
- Remove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage.
- Cut the cabbage into thick wedges or round slices about ½ to 1 inch thick.
- Place the cabbage pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Season the Cabbage
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil (or melted butter), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush or drizzle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the cabbage pieces.
4. Roast the Cabbage
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping the cabbage halfway through, until it starts to brown and crisp around the edges.
5. Add the Parmesan Cheese
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the cabbage during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Continue roasting until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with fresh lemon juice for added brightness.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy!
Tips for the Best Oven-Baked Cabbage
- Cut Evenly: Ensure all cabbage pieces are similar in size for even cooking.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a richer flavor than pre-packaged varieties.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between cabbage pieces to allow for even roasting and crispiness.
- Add Extra Crunch: For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.
Variations & Additions
Want to take this dish to the next level? Try these fun variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Bacon Upgrade: Sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon over the cabbage before serving.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in cheddar cheese or mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy version.
- Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary for extra depth of flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
Oven-baked cabbage with Parmesan cheese is a versatile side dish that goes well with many meals, including:
- Grilled Chicken – The savory flavors complement roasted or grilled poultry beautifully.
- Steak or Pork Chops – A great low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
- Baked Salmon – The slight sweetness of roasted cabbage pairs well with rich, flaky fish.
- Rice or Quinoa – Serve over a bed of grains for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This oven-baked cabbage with Parmesan cheese is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. With minimal ingredients and an easy prep process, it’s the perfect side dish for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Try this recipe today and enjoy a deliciously crispy, cheesy, and nutritious addition to your table!
