Crispy Cabbage Steaks Garlic

Cabbage rarely gets the spotlight it deserves, but these Air Fryer Crispy Cabbage Steaks with Garlic Butter are here to change that. Thick, hearty rounds of green cabbage are seasoned with smoky paprika, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper, then air-fried until the edges turn irresistibly golden and the centers become delightfully tender. The finishing touch — a generous brush of melted garlic butter with fresh parsley — transforms this humble vegetable into something truly craveable. Ready in just 28 minutes, this easy American-inspired side dish is vegetarian, gluten-free, and guaranteed to win over even the most skeptical cabbage critics.

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There is something wonderfully unpretentious about a great cabbage steak. It asks for nothing fancy — just a sharp knife, a few pantry staples, and a trusty air fryer. The smoked paprika lends a subtle, warming depth, while the olive oil helps each slice develop that coveted golden crust. When those hot steaks meet the garlic butter right out of the basket, the butter melts on contact, seeping into every layer and filling your kitchen with an aroma that signals something special is about to be served. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight family dinner or looking for a show-stopping vegetarian option for guests, these cabbage steaks deliver every single time.

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 1 medium green cabbage, outer leaves removed
• Garlic Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Garlic Butter: 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• Garlic Butter: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Seasonings: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Seasonings: 1 teaspoon sea salt
• Seasonings: ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Seasonings: ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)

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Instructions

Step 1 — Preheat

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2 — Slice the cabbage

Slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick rounds, forming steaks. Pat dry with paper towels.

Step 3 — Make the garlic butter

In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Set aside.

Step 4 — Oil the steaks

Brush both sides of each cabbage steak with olive oil.

Step 5 — Season

Sprinkle both sides with smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper, and onion powder.

Step 6 — Arrange in the basket

Arrange cabbage steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).

Step 7 — Air fry

Air fry for 10 minutes, flip, then air fry for another 8 minutes until golden and crispy around the edges.

Step 8 — Brush with garlic butter

Immediately brush hot cabbage steaks with garlic butter.

Step 9 — Serve

Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Pat the cabbage steaks thoroughly dry with paper towels before brushing them with olive oil — moisture is the enemy of a crispy crust. If your air fryer basket is on the smaller side, do not be tempted to crowd the steaks; always work in batches so the hot air can circulate freely around each slice. Use tongs when flipping halfway through to keep the steaks intact and avoid burning your hands. Having your garlic butter ready and waiting is key — brush it on immediately the moment the steaks come out of the basket while they are still piping hot, so the butter melts evenly into every layer.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, simply swap the unsalted butter for your favourite plant-based butter — the flavour remains rich and satisfying. If you enjoy a cheesy finish, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the steaks as soon as they come out of the air fryer, or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free cheesy note. For a spicier profile, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix alongside the smoked paprika. You can also experiment with other seasonings such as cumin or Italian herb blends to tailor the flavour to whatever main dish you are serving.

Serviervorschläge

These garlic butter cabbage steaks shine as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, roasted pork tenderloin, or a juicy steak. They are equally satisfying served as a vegetarian main — top them with a fried or poached egg, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of tahini for a complete and nourishing plate. For a lighter meal, pair them with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread to mop up every drop of garlic butter. Garnish generously with fresh parsley just before serving to add a bright pop of colour and freshness to the plate.

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Simple ingredients, minimal effort, and maximum flavour — that is the quiet genius of these Air Fryer Crispy Cabbage Steaks with Garlic Butter. In under 30 minutes, you have a dish that looks impressive, tastes indulgent, and happens to be both vegetarian and gluten-free. Whether this becomes your go-to weeknight side or a new favourite vegetarian main, one thing is certain: cabbage will never be an afterthought at your table again. Give it a try, and let the garlic butter do the rest.

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Cooking Guide

→ How do you achieve crispy cabbage edges?

Brushing cabbage slices with olive oil and air frying at 375°F for about 18 minutes helps develop crispy, golden edges.

→ What seasoning enhances the cabbage flavor?

A mix of smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper, and onion powder adds depth and a mild smoky zest.

→ Can the garlic butter be substituted for a vegan option?

Yes, using plant-based butter maintains the rich garlic flavor while keeping it vegan-friendly.

→ Why is it important to pat the cabbage dry before cooking?

Removing excess moisture ensures the cabbage crisps up nicely instead of steaming during air frying.

→ How can this dish be served for variety?

Serve it as a hearty vegetarian main or pair with grilled meats for a balanced meal.

→ Can additional toppings be added?

Sprinkling grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast can add extra flavor and savory notes.