Let’s talk about the unsung hero of the veggie drawer: cabbage. When thick-cut into steaks and crisped up in the air fryer with a buttery garlic seasoning, cabbage transforms into something unexpectedly addictive. These Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks are caramelized on the edges, tender at the core, and just begging to be dunked in your favorite dipping sauce or served alongside anything grilled.
Fast, affordable, and oh-so-satisfying—you’ll never look at cabbage the same way again!
Why You’ll Love These Cabbage Steaks
Quick & Easy: 20 minutes start to finish!
Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives them a golden crust with no oven preheating or sogginess.
Budget-Friendly: A head of cabbage goes a long way—this is veggie magic on a dime.
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Great for any eating plan, and surprisingly filling.
Flavor Bombs: Garlic, paprika, and a little butter make every bite pop.
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Ingredients in Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks
Green Cabbage
Choose a firm head and slice it into thick, even steaks.
Olive Oil or Melted Butter
To help those edges crisp up and carry the flavor.
Garlic Powder
For that classic savory punch.
Smoked Paprika
Adds depth and a subtle smokiness.
Salt & Pepper
Simple, but essential.
Optional Garnishes
Fresh herbs, grated parmesan, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lemon.
Instructions
Prep the Cabbage
Slice your cabbage into ¾ to 1-inch thick rounds. Try to keep the core intact so they hold together.
Season
Brush both sides with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set it to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up for 2–3 minutes.
Air Fry
Place the cabbage steaks in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy on the edges and tender in the middle.
Serve
Sprinkle with parmesan or fresh herbs and enjoy immediately!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 85
Carbohydrates: 8g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Flavor Variations
Parmesan Herb: Add shredded parmesan and Italian seasoning before the last few minutes of air frying.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with chili flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
Balsamic Glaze: A quick drizzle after cooking adds tang and depth.
Cheesy Melt: Top with shredded cheese and return to the air fryer for 1 minute.
Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes until warmed and crispy again.
Freezing: Not ideal—cabbage gets mushy. Best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use red cabbage instead?
A1: You can, but it may turn out slightly chewier and more colorful!
Q2: How thick should I cut the steaks?
A2: About ¾ to 1 inch thick is perfect—they hold together and cook evenly.
Q3: Can I make these in the oven instead?
A3: Absolutely—bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q4: What’s the best dipping sauce?
A4: Garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy mayo are all top-tier choices!
Q5: Do I need to boil the cabbage first?
A5: Nope! Straight into the air fryer is the magic.
Q6: Can I add bacon bits or crumbled sausage?
A6: Yes! Add them on top after air frying for a hearty twist.
Q7: Will this work with Napa or Savoy cabbage?
A7: Those are more delicate—stick with regular green for best texture.
Q8: How do I keep the steaks from falling apart?
A8: Keep the core intact when slicing—it helps hold each steak together.
Q9: Can I marinate the cabbage first?
A9: You can! A quick marinade of oil, vinegar, and spices adds extra flavor.
Q10: Are these good for meal prep?
A10: Totally. They reheat well and pair beautifully with grains or proteins.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish, a low-carb main, or just something new to do with that lonely cabbage in your fridge, Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks are here to impress. Crispy, caramelized, and seasoned to perfection—they’re easy enough for a weeknight, yet tasty enough to steal the show at dinner.
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Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 cabbage steaks 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks are crispy on the edges, tender in the center, and packed with savory flavor. This simple, healthy side dish takes minutes to prep and is perfect for busy weeknights or as a unique veggie addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
- Remove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage and slice into 1-inch thick rounds (steaks).
- Place cabbage steaks on a flat surface. Brush both sides with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy on the edges and fork-tender in the center.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Thicker slices take longer to cook—adjust timing as needed.
- Use red cabbage for a colorful variation.
- Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or lemon juice for added zing.
- Leftovers can be chopped and added to salads or wraps.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg