Growing up, my mom was always trying to get me to eat more vegetables. I’ll never forget the day she served up these incredible Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon – it was a total game-changer! The tender, caramelized cabbage, the smoky bacon, the perfect seasoning – it was love at first bite. From that moment on, Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon became a regular in our dinner rotation, and it’s still one of my all-time favorite veggie-centric dishes.
Why This Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon
What makes this Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon recipe so special is the combination of simple, high-quality ingredients and a few expert techniques that really take it to the next level. The key is in the way the cabbage is sliced into thick “steaks” and then roasted at a high temperature to get that delectable caramelization on the edges. Add in the smoky, crispy bacon, plus a blend of earthy spices, and you’ve got a side dish (or even a main!) that’s both nutritious and utterly crave-worthy.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:
- 1 head green cabbage, cut into 1-inch thick slices: The thick cabbage “steaks” are the foundation of this dish, providing a meaty texture and earthy flavor.
- 6 slices bacon: The smoky, salty bacon adds an incredible depth of flavor and crispy texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the cabbage steaks get beautifully browned and caramelized in the oven.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and brings out the natural sweetness of the cabbage.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick of heat and earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a savory, aromatic background note.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Lends a touch of smoky, sweet warmth.
Step-by-Step Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Instructions
Preparing Your Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon
Prep time for this Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon recipe is just 10 minutes, and the total cooking time is 20 minutes, so you can have this delicious side dish on the table in just 30 minutes. All you’ll need is a sharp knife, a baking sheet, and a few simple kitchen tools.
1- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it’s heating up, take your head of green cabbage and slice it into 1-inch thick slices, creating those beautiful “steaks.”
2- Arrange the cabbage steaks in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Drizzle them evenly with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle on the 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika. Use your hands to gently rub the seasonings all over the cabbage.
3- Now it’s time to add the bacon. Lay the 6 slices of bacon directly on top of the seasoned cabbage steaks, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
4- Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the bacon is crispy. You’ll know it’s done when the edges of the cabbage steaks are golden brown and caramelized.
5- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon cool for 5 minutes. This will help the cabbage firm up a bit and make it easier to transfer to plates.
6- Serve the Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon hot, garnished with any extra bacon crumbles. They pair beautifully with roasted potatoes, a fresh salad, or your favorite protein for a complete and satisfying meal.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cut the cabbage into thick, even slices to ensure they all cook at the same rate. Thin slices may burn, while thicker ones may not get tender enough.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – make sure the cabbage steaks have a little breathing room so they can properly caramelize.
- Keep a close eye on the bacon toward the end of the cooking time to prevent it from burning.
- For extra flavor, try brushing the cabbage steaks with a bit of melted butter or drizzling them with balsamic glaze before serving.
Serving and Storing Your Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon
Perfect Pairings for Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon
This Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon recipe serves 6 hearty portions, making it a great side dish or even a light main course. Some of my favorite pairings include:
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries for a comforting, veggie-packed meal
- A bright, refreshing salad to balance out the richness of the bacon
- Grilled or baked chicken, pork chops, or salmon for a complete, protein-packed dinner
- A glass of crisp white wine or a cold, hoppy beer to complement the savory flavors
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon are super versatile when it comes to storage and meal prep. You can refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 400°F for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
You can also freeze the Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon for longer-term storage. Let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the cabbage steaks up to 2 days in advance, store them in the fridge, and then just add the bacon and roast them off when you’re ready to serve.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon
Creative Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Variations
There are so many ways to put a twist on this Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon recipe:
- Try using Napa or Savoy cabbage instead of green for a more delicate texture.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs for extra crispy edges.
- Toss in some sliced onions or garlic cloves for extra flavor.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey mustard dressing before serving.
- Swap the bacon for plant-based “bacon” bits for a vegetarian version.
Making Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe work for various dietary needs, you can try these simple swaps:
- Use avocado oil or melted coconut oil instead of olive oil for a low-carb, keto-friendly version.
- Omit the bacon and sprinkle on some nutritional yeast or slivered almonds for a vegan/vegetarian option.
- Choose a gluten-free certified soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.
- Reduce the salt to 1/2 teaspoon if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cabbage besides green?
A: Absolutely! While green cabbage is the classic choice, you can also use Napa, Savoy, or even red cabbage in this Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon recipe. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness and density of the cabbage.
Q: How do I know when the cabbage steaks are done?
A: The Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon are ready when the edges are golden brown and caramelized, and a knife can easily pierce through the center. The total cook time is 20 minutes, but you’ll want to keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the cabbage steaks up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just add the bacon and roast as directed. Leftovers will also keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Q: How many people does this Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon recipe serve?
A: This recipe makes 6 generous servings, so it’s perfect for a family dinner or as a side dish for a larger gathering. The portion sizes are hearty enough to enjoy as a main course, too.
Q: What if my cabbage steaks aren’t as crispy as I’d like?
A: If your Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon aren’t as caramelized as you’d prefer, try increasing the oven temperature to 425°F and roasting for a few extra minutes. You can also try broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes to really get that delicious, crispy texture.
Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
These Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Crispy Bacon are a quick and easy side dish that’s bursting with flavor. Tender, caramelized cabbage is topped with savory, crispy bacon for a side that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients
– 1 head green cabbage, cut into 1-inch thick slices
– 6 slices bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the cabbage slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the cabbage and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss to coat the cabbage evenly.
3. Lay the bacon slices over the top of the cabbage steaks.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the bacon is crispy.
5. Serve the Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon hot and enjoy!
Notes
– For extra flavor, try brushing the cabbage with a bit of balsamic glaze or honey before roasting.
– Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Salads and Bowls
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon is a true weeknight hero – it’s quick, easy, and so unbelievably delicious. The combination of tender, sweet cabbage and smoky, crispy bacon is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and fiber, so you can feel good about indulging.
I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your household, just like it is in mine. Let me know if you try it and what you think! I’d love to hear your feedback and see your creations. Bon appétit!
