These Baked Cabbage Nest Burgers are the perfect solution if you are looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional burgers. This recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a burger without the excess carbohydrates by replacing refined-flour buns with crispy, oven-baked cabbage nests.
Cabbage is not only a nutrient-dense vegetable, but it is also low in calories and high in fiber, making it an excellent option for those on a keto, paleo, or gluten-free diet. The crispy texture of the cabbage nests pairs perfectly with juicy, flavorful burger patties, creating a meal that is both satisfying and packed with essential nutrients.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Cabbage Nest Burgers Recipe
For the Cabbage Nests (Makes 4-6 Nests):
- 3 cups shredded green cabbage
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Burger Patties (Makes 4-6 Patties):
- 16 ounces of ground beef, turkey, or chicken
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil of choice
Why Choose Cabbage Nest Burgers Instead of Traditional Buns?
Most commercial burger buns contain refined flour, preservatives, and added sugars, leading to unnecessary calorie consumption and blood sugar spikes. By swapping the bun for crispy cabbage nests, this recipe provides:
- A low-calorie, high-fiber alternative that promotes satiety.
- A crunchy texture that enhances the juiciness of the burger.
- A natural source of vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants that support digestion and immunity.
Step-by-Step Instructions For Cabbage Nest Burgers
Prepare the Cabbage Nests
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together shredded cabbage, salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, egg, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
- Divide the mixture into 4-6 mounds on the baking sheet. Shape them into nest-like circles with a small indentation in the center to hold the burger patty.
- Bake for about 13 minutes, checking for edges that are firm and lightly browned.
Make the Burger Patties
- In a separate bowl, combine ground meat, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, onion, and garlic.
- Mix gently until well incorporated, then form the mixture into 4-6 small patties that fit inside the cabbage nests.
- Warm 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over moderate heat, cooking each patty for 2-3 minutes per side until it develops a golden crust.
Assemble & Bake
- Remove the cabbage nests from the oven and carefully place each burger patty inside a nest.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the patties reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for poultry.
- Allow the burgers to cool slightly before serving, giving the juices time to redistribute for optimal flavor.
Variations and Customizations
There are many ways to adapt this recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
- Spicy Version: Add ½ teaspoon of chili flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
- Cheese Lovers: Melt cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese on top of the patties during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Replace the burger patty with a grilled portobello mushroom or a black bean patty.
- Sauce Pairings: Serve with garlic aioli, avocado crema, or homemade spicy mayo for an added flavor boost.
Nutritional Benefits
These Baked Cabbage Nest Burgers are rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making them an excellent choice for anyone following a low-carb, paleo, or gluten-free diet.
Estimated Macros Per Serving (1 Burger with Cabbage Nest):
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Fats: ~18g
- Carbs: ~6g
FAQs About Cabbage Nest Burgers
1. Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare both the cabbage nests and burger patties in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble them just before baking.
2. Can I swap green cabbage for red cabbage?
Yes, using red cabbage will slightly alter the taste, providing a mild sweetness along with vibrant color.
3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Reheating: Warm them up in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until heated through.
4. Can I freeze cabbage nests?
Yes. Freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a storage bag. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 12 minutes.
5. How do I make this recipe vegan?
Replace the egg with a flax egg, swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast, and use a plant-based burger patty.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Cabbage Nest Burgers offer a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy burgers without the need for traditional buns. Whether you are following a low-carb diet, looking for a creative way to eat more vegetables, or simply craving a unique burger alternative, this recipe is worth trying.
For more creative burger recipes, check out these French Onion Soup Burgers for another flavorful twist.
Will you be trying this recipe? Let us know in the comments.